**2 AMD systems

[newbuilder14]

Hello again,

I am building myself a computer for gaming, work, and just general tasks. My friend needs a computer for similar tasks. I have basically set my mind to AMD, and I know many of you may debate this, but I ask that you do not post suggesting me to change my mind (even though I may, that is at my own discretion). I don't think I will loose to much in going this route, plus, I believe AMD will come out with something great to compete with the Core 2 Duo eventually. Both of us don't really multitask too much. Our budgets are relatelively on the low side ($600-800 with no monitor, OS, or perhipials) for gaming because we simply do not need top of the line systems for what we need - the games we play are pretty CPU intensively mainly. I ask your advice of whether to go the AM2 or 939 route - my friend will not be upgrading his computer for a while, but I think I will. I want to buy all my parts from Newegg, but they literally sell out of the 3800+ x2 processors whenever they get them. Sorry for the long post, and thanks in advance for the help. I can easily put together a good Intel build without suggestions, but going the AMD route is a bit different - I have never dealt with AMD before.

[Mr.Ferrari]

Even though your friend wont be upgrading. I still suggest an am2 system. DDR is just a waste of money. Still, 939 would be ok, if it fits his budget better. Its not THAT old.

AM2 for you of course. 939 is a not a upgradeable platform.

[newbuilder14]

Is a dual core processor necessary for my needs? Also, what motherboards can I go with besides the Asus M2N-E. I do thank you for your fast reply. :)

[Alaron]

I would keep a dual core in the budget. They aren't too expensive, and more and more programs, including games, can take advantage of them. Mwave has the X2 3800+ in stock: http://www.mwave.com/mwave/viewspec.hmx?scriteria=MB-BA22656&RSKU=MB-BA22656

[newbuilder14]

Alright I will do so. Thanks for the link, too.

[Mr.Ferrari]

Ive been hearing good things about the abit kn9. Its been a bit more picky with ram, so make sure, as im sure you probally will, stick to corsair/xms

[whubbard]

Do you want a full build specs? or are you just asking about the processors and MB?

Also, do you want 2 indentical builds, or will yours be on a bit bigger budget. ($200, can make a very different PC)

[newbuilder14]

I would like to keep them relatively similar, and I am not asking anyone to go to the trouble of full build specs.

So would NF4 be more stable than NF570? Here is what I'm looking at currently:

Athlon 64 3800+ x2
Abit KN9 or other (I'd really like suggetions)
1gb XMS2 800mhz
80gb WD Sata or bigger
7900gs or 7600gt?
I would also like suggestions as to which PSU to get. Something high quality but not overpriced.

[whubbard]

hows abou this for a PSU: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16817194011
For motherboards there is this: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16813131593 (i think its out of your budget though)
and this: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16813131013 (which is more in your budget)