Recommendations: Processor and Motherboard

[utdarkviper]

Thanks, no i havnt purchased anything yet. the only thing with the 9600GT and the 8800 is that they are so much more expensive then the 8600 series.

It really is worth it. Go for the 8800gts 320, it's the cheapest of them (which is why I mentioned it before). If you don't want your card to get outdated quickly you really should. Just my 2 cents :D.

[+shift. MVC]

8800GTS 320MB performs around the same as a 9600GT. I would just grab a 9600GT at the very least, although an 8800GT is recommended.

[utdarkviper]

In his case the 8800gts320 should perform to the best of his needs and is cheaper than the 9600gt, but both should be considered. Also, nice choice of HDD. The longer I thought of it the higher GB HDD I was considering :p. I went from 250 to 500 and I'm glad I did!

[Premgenius]

I recommend the Corsair HX 620W PSU, Antec P182 case and 8800GT

[+shift. MVC]

How will 9600GT not perform to the best of his needs if it's only ~$20 more expensive than an 8800GTS 320MB, not to mention it has more memory.

Plus it will run a lot cooler + requires less power.

In the few reviews I've seen of 8800GTS G80 vs. 9600GT it's been a toss up. So why get an older technology when there is a closely priced newer technology available.

[+PeterUK MVC]

Theirs also the 8800GS that cost less the 8800GTS G80 and perform about the same also.

Just to list some differences on non OC cards:

Core clock

8800GTS G80 320MB 500

8800GS 384MB 550

9600GT 512MB 650

Stream Processors

8800GTS G80 320MB 96

8800GS 384MB 96

9600GT 512MB 64

Shaders clock

8800GTS G80 320MB 1200

8800GS 384MB 1375

9600GT 512MB 1625

Bus width

8800GTS G80 320MB 320

8800GS 384MB 192

9600GT 512MB 256

Memory Clock

8800GTS G80 320MB 1600

8800GS 384MB 1600

9600GT 512MB 1800

Texture Units

8800GTS G80 320MB 48

8800GS 384MB 48

9600GT 512MB 32

From http://en.wikipedia.org

[utdarkviper]

How will 9600GT not perform to the best of his needs if it's only ~$20 more expensive than an 8800GTS 320MB, not to mention it has more memory.

Plus it will run a lot cooler + requires less power.

In the few reviews I've seen of 8800GTS G80 vs. 9600GT it's been a toss up. So why get an older technology when there is a closely priced newer technology available.

I was saying he should get it mainly cuz it may be more than he needs to begin with and it's cheaper, but I specifically stated to consider both and I did so due to that $20 or so difference. It doesn't matter much which one he gets really cuz he will probably be happy with any of them. I didn't even think about the 8800gs, that one's even cheaper and still in that range. Honestly I think he will be happy no matter what with any of these.

[darkdestroyer6]

Thanks for your advice. I am still unsure on a graphics card.

Heres what im thinking so far:

Intel Core 2 Quad Q6600 G0 Stepping (2.4GHz 1066MHz) Socket 775 L2 8MB Cache (2x4MB (4MB per core pair) Retail Boxed Processor

ASUS P5K-E/WIFI-AP AiLifestyle Series P35 Socket 775 Socket eSATA 8 channel Audio ATX Motherboard

Corsair 4GB Kit (2x2GB) DDR2 800MHz/PC2-6400 XMS2 Memory Non-ECC Unbuffered CL5(5-5-5-18) DHX Technology Heat Sink Lifetime Warranty

Maxtor STM3320820AS 320GB 7200RPM SATAII 8MB Cache - OEM

Plexus DVI-D Dual Link Flat Panel Replacement Cable (Black) 2m

Microsoft Windows Vista Home Premium -SP1- Licence and media - 1 PC - OEM - DVD - 32-bit - English

LiteOn DH-20A1S 20X DVD?RW/DLRAM Black Bare Drive - OEM

Missing (undecided):

Case + PSU

Graphics card

[+PeterUK MVC]

PSU: 450W Corsair VX or 500w Seasonic S12II will do.

Case: up to you really... Coolermaster RC-331 Elite?

[darkdestroyer6]

Thanks, now i just have to try and find a decent graphics card that doesnt cost a lot :p.

[CrashG]

If you're looking for a "no frills" case either the CoolerMaster PeterUK suggested or Enlight 7250AK9 or Enlight 7250AKG w/650W Power Supply the PSU is actually made by Delta just OEM'ed to Enlight. Or if your looking for something a little more sleek Antec P182 Gun Metal Black but really the case is up to you, it all depends on what your style is (sleek and classy or flashy with windows and LED lights) :p .

Right now all the 8800 GS/GT are $130-140 or 9600GT $145.

[darkdestroyer6]

If you're looking for a "no frills" case either the CoolerMaster PeterUK suggested or Enlight 7250AK9 or Enlight 7250AKG w/650W Power Supply the PSU is actually made by Delta just OEM'ed to Enlight. Or if your looking for something a little more sleek Antec P182 Gun Metal Black but really the case is up to you, it all depends on what your style is (sleek and classy or flashy with windows and LED lights) :p .

Right now all the 8800 GS/GT are $130-140 or 9600GT $145.

Ive been looking at these:

XFX GeForce 8800 GS 384MB DDR3 PCI-E Dual DVI 680Mhz

XFX GeForce 8800 GS 384MB DDR3 PCI-E Dual DVI 580 Mhz

[CrashG]

Ive been looking at these:

XFX GeForce 8800 GS 384MB DDR3 PCI-E Dual DVI 680Mhz

XFX GeForce 8800 GS 384MB DDR3 PCI-E Dual DVI 580 Mhz

Either one of those would be good for what you're planning to do, plus if for some reason you get into games a little more than you expect to, it'll still be a decent card.

[Premgenius]

Thanks for your advice. I am still unsure on a graphics card.

Heres what im thinking so far:

Intel Core 2 Quad Q6600 G0 Stepping (2.4GHz 1066MHz) Socket 775 L2 8MB Cache (2x4MB (4MB per core pair) Retail Boxed Processor

ASUS P5K-E/WIFI-AP AiLifestyle Series P35 Socket 775 Socket eSATA 8 channel Audio ATX Motherboard

Corsair 4GB Kit (2x2GB) DDR2 800MHz/PC2-6400 XMS2 Memory Non-ECC Unbuffered CL5(5-5-5-18) DHX Technology Heat Sink Lifetime Warranty

Maxtor STM3320820AS 320GB 7200RPM SATAII 8MB Cache - OEM

Plexus DVI-D Dual Link Flat Panel Replacement Cable (Black) 2m

Microsoft Windows Vista Home Premium -SP1- Licence and media - 1 PC - OEM - DVD - 32-bit - English

LiteOn DH-20A1S 20X DVD?RW/DLRAM Black Bare Drive - OEM

Missing (undecided):

Case + PSU

Graphics card

Ask anyone the Antec P182 hands down for the case, the Corsair HX 620W modular PSU with SLi

[darkdestroyer6]

Either one of those would be good for what you're planning to do, plus if for some reason you get into games a little more than you expect to, it'll still be a decent card.

Thanks, quick question...is it worth spending a lot of money on RAM such as the Corsair Dominator TW3X4G1800C8DF G: 4GB DDR3-1800 SDRAM or the Corsair 4GB Kit (2x2GB) DDR2 800MHz/PC2-6400 XMS2 Memory?

[CrashG]

Thanks, quick question...is it worth spending a lot of money on RAM such as the Corsair Dominator TW3X4G1800C8DF G: 4GB DDR3-1800 SDRAM or the Corsair 4GB Kit (2x2GB) DDR2 800MHz/PC2-6400 XMS2 Memory?

Not really, unless you're going to be overclocking the ram, then it starts to become important because of the chips on the ram. Also the first item you listed there is DDR3 and will not work in the P5K-E WiFi board. I got my "cheap" G.Skill 2x1Gb for around $65, but the ram I'm getting for the wife's upcoming build is around $50 for 2x1Gb G.Skill. Something like this if you can get it in your area would be fine G.SKILL 4GB (2 x 2GB) or something similar to it.

[utdarkviper]

I grabbed that G. Skill 4GB (2 x 2GB) when it was $75 with free shipping and I love it! It looks sexy too! =D I say go for those if you can find them cheap.

[chconline Veteran]

Power supplies... one of the biggest things I look for in terms of power supplies are performance and quietness. In terms of performance, it means that it has to provide adequate power stably; and quietness -- self explanatory. Seasonic still remains my favorite as it achieves the best of both worlds. The PC Power & Cooling Silencer series are really nice too; built by Seasonic -- as well as the Corsair HX series which are nice too, although they aren't necessary 'first tier' Seasonic power supplies, they perform extremely well. I currently have a M12 500W and it powers my overclocked quad core and a 8800GTS G92 without issues. I just got a Seasonic M12II 500W and I could say that it can handle a 9800GX2 without hiccups, just wait and see :p

Sweet stuff.

The rear fan is now gone too (Y)

[darkdestroyer6]

Intel Core 2 Quad Q6600 G0 Stepping (2.4GHz 1066MHz) Socket 775 L2 8MB Cache (2x4MB (4MB per core pair) Retail Boxed Processor

ASUS P5K-E/WIFI-AP AiLifestyle Series P35 Socket 775 Socket eSATA 8 channel Audio ATX Motherboard

or

Asus Motherboard P5K3 Deluxe WiFi - if so will need to change ram.

Corsair 4GB Kit (2x2GB) DDR2 800MHz/PC2-6400 XMS2 Memory Non-ECC Unbuffered CL5(5-5-5-18) DHX Technology Heat Sink Lifetime Warranty

Maxtor STM3320820AS 320GB 7200RPM SATAII 8MB Cache - OEM

Plexus DVI-D Dual Link Flat Panel Replacement Cable (Black) 2m

Microsoft Windows Vista Home Premium -SP1- Licence and media - 1 PC - OEM - DVD - 32-bit - English

LiteOn DH-20A1S 20X DVD?RW/DLRAM Black Bare Drive - OEM

XFX GeForce 8800 GS 384MB DDR3 PCI-E Dual DVI 580 Mhz

Missing (undecided):

Case + PSU

[gummyz]

Just remember if you are going with the P5K3, you'll need DDR3 memory.

Another vote for Seasonic PSUs. I own 2 of them myself for my "lower end" PCs. Quietest PSU I have had, and very stable on the voltage rails. Other good ones that are affordable are Tagan, Corsair, Silverstone and Enermax. If you are looking for some higher quality ones, again Seasonic, PC Power & Cooling and the other good ones I mentioned that have single 12V rail. 500W is what you should be aiming for but 550W to 650W just to be safe.

Case is all preference. Just get one that is a good brand (Thermaltake, Lian-Li, Coolermaster, Antec), that will fit all your hardware (ie the amount of 5.25" and 3.5" drives you can install, 120mm+ case fans for quiet cooling.

I'm sure I'm missing some other good brands on the above, but for the most part, the ones I listed are very good or the best.

[darkdestroyer6]

Just remember if you are going with the P5K3, you'll need DDR3 memory.

Another vote for Seasonic PSUs. I own 2 of them myself for my "lower end" PCs. Quietest PSU I have had, and very stable on the voltage rails. Other good ones that are affordable are Tagan, Corsair, Silverstone and Enermax. If you are looking for some higher quality ones, again Seasonic, PC Power & Cooling and the other good ones I mentioned that have single 12V rail. 500W is what you should be aiming for but 550W to 650W just to be safe.

Case is all preference. Just get one that is a good brand (Thermaltake, Lian-Li, Coolermaster, Antec), that will fit all your hardware (ie the amount of 5.25" and 3.5" drives you can install, 120mm+ case fans for quiet cooling.

I'm sure I'm missing some other good brands on the above, but for the most part, the ones I listed are very good or the best.

Thanks :). Which of the two motherboards would u recommend? would u go with the ddr3 one for the future?

[gummyz]

If you can find a good deal on DDR3 memory, it doesn't hurt to get the P5K3, so you're more up to date for a future upgrade to your Ram (whether you are adding more or buying a new set of Ram). The performance difference of DDR2 and DDR3 (using the same speeds and timings), there really isn't alot of performance boost, or any at all that is noticeable. What is important is that DDR3 has more bandwidth or "speed", but has slower timings (the timings should get faster as DDR3 matures).

At this point, DDR3 looks very attractive since it is actually affordable and decently comparable in price versus DDR2. I am upgrading myself soon (but I do upgrade at least once a year) and plan on DDR3 now. If I were upgrading a few months ago, I would have went DDR2 - since I upgrade often, there is no sense in spending the extra $100 on DDR3, mind as well keep it for the next upgrade. Just keep in mind, you are paying sometimes around $100 permium to get to DDR3 (motherboard price difference + memory price difference), with some or minimal performance improvement. Again you are paying more basically for being a little more futureproof.

All in all, if you are interested in getting DDR3, since futureproofing is one of your concerns, go for it if it fits your budget and you can justify the costs.

[darkdestroyer6]

If you can find a good deal on DDR3 memory, it doesn't hurt to get the P5K3, so you're more up to date for a future upgrade to your Ram (whether you are adding more or buying a new set of Ram). The performance difference of DDR2 and DDR3 (using the same speeds and timings), there really isn't alot of performance boost, or any at all that is noticeable. What is important is that DDR3 has more bandwidth or "speed", but has slower timings (the timings should get faster as DDR3 matures).

At this point, DDR3 looks very attractive since it is actually affordable and decently comparable in price versus DDR2. I am upgrading myself soon (but I do upgrade at least once a year) and plan on DDR3 now. If I were upgrading a few months ago, I would have went DDR2 - since I upgrade often, there is no sense in spending the extra $100 on DDR3, mind as well keep it for the next upgrade. Just keep in mind, you are paying sometimes around $100 permium to get to DDR3 (motherboard price difference + memory price difference), with some or minimal performance improvement. Again you are paying more basically for being a little more futureproof.

All in all, if you are interested in getting DDR3, since futureproofing is one of your concerns, go for it if it fits your budget and you can justify the costs.

Thanks :). Do you know if the P5K3 is a better board then the P5K-E? obviously it depends what features you want, i just meant overall.

[gummyz]

Overall, I would say the same build quality and performance is essentially the same. I don't believe the boards differ in any other way really other than the DDR3 and chipset - since the chipset is where the memory controller is (chipset is not really tweaked for performance as it is still using the P35 chipset).

The other upside to DDR3 is that it does consume less voltage to run at the same speeds as DDR2. This won't make any difference to the average user (or even gamer), but to overclockers and hardware enthusiasts who tweak alot, it does make a difference.

[gwai lo]

ehh, DDR3 still costs quite a bit and you're not really future proofing yourself. Intel is moving onto a new socket and the chips still to come on 775 will not use DDR3's potential. Better to just go with "lower end" DDR2 hardware and buy DDR3 when you upgrade your next system. DDR3 prices will come down just like DDR2 came down.