A Core 2 Duo Build

[newbuilder14]

I've decided I will most likely build a system using a Core 2 Duo. I'm not sure how much it will cost for everything, even monitor, keyboard, mouse, etc., but I was thinking around $1,200. Anyone mind suggesting a list of parts? I figured there will be many of these threads in the future, why not take care of it right now.

[Spirit]

I've decided I will most likely build a system using a Core 2 Duo. I'm not sure how much it will cost for everything, even monitor, keyboard, mouse, etc., but I was thinking around $1,200. Anyone mind suggesting a list of parts? I figured there will be many of these threads in the future, why not take care of it right now.
Before I make a list, what are your demands for a computer?

[newbuilder14]

Thank you very much. I want this PC to be worthwile, meaning still very good within years to come. I also do multitask at times. I play Half Life 2 often and I use photo editing software. Having capabilities to do whatever I throw at it is important (within reason). The cheaper, the better (well, in a way :D).

[Staren]

That will be a little tight including monitor, but I think we can manage something pretty good. ;)

I would say get the monitor and peripherals out of the way first. That way we have a solid budget to work with for the core system (excuse the pun). What I would suggest is something like this:

Tyris T701DB Black 17" 8ms DVI LCD Monitor 300 cd/m2 500:1 0.264mm Pixel Pitch - Retail
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16824224007
$145.99

Logitech 967457-0403 Black 103 Normal Keys 8 Function Keys PS/2 Wired Keyboard Mouse Included - OEM
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16823126152
$15.99

That would leave about $950 for pure hardware, allocating $90 for XP Home.

[newbuilder14]

I put together a list of parts myself at Newegg. It seems like $1,200 was a very good estimate for the cost of the system.

[jayb1234]

The Antec Sonata II (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16811129155) would be a good case/PSU combo. $109.99]Intel BOXDP965LTCK (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16813121035) Socket T (LGA 775) Intel P965 Express ATX Intel Motherboard - Retail $116.99 RAM 2x512 corsair value select about 90 bucks, add another pair later if needed. No sound card, onboard is pretty good, give it a try and add a card later if you want. Optical drive Liteon 35-45 bucks. Hard drive (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16822144701) WD 250Gb 16Mb cache. Mitsumi Floppy or floppy/card reader combo under 20 bucks.

[Spirit]

optical: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?item=N82E16827106019

case?: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?item=N82E16811129152

hd: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?item=N82E16822148144

gfx: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?item=N82E16814130017

psu: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?item=N82E16817103931

ram: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?item=N82E16820145566

mobo: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?item=N82E16813128012

os: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?item=N82E16837102059

monitor: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?item=N82E16824116353

Add in a e6300 for.... $220, and you'll be close to $1200.

I put together a list of parts myself at Newegg. It seems like $1,200 was a very good estimate for the cost of the system.

If one of those parts is the newegg e6300 then that's not the real price. Newegg have done the gouging of the century. Almost DOUBLE the per-unit price. Absolutely rediculous.

[Staren]

No kidding. If you have to buy now, go to zipzoomfly. Otherwise wait another few days to a week for the early bird price to come down. Looks like some places are gouging for the "must-have-NOW!" congengent.

[Alaron]

newbuilder14, please do not start a new thread when you have one active. Continue there: http://forum.pcmech.com/showthread.php?t=163363