First Build seeking for some Assistance

[Acal131]

Hey guys I just compiled together some computer parts after a days work of light research and what on each part. I am a first time builder and am trying to build a decent PC for myself. I think im going to end up going the new egg route since it seems to have pretty good customer service and an easy web layout makes things simple. Well anyways I just wanted any of you to chime in on the specs that I post and if they are all compatible and what I should change or what not. Thanks in advanced

HDD: Seagate barracuda 250 GB 7200 RPM Sata 3.0g/b
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16822148262

Memory(RAM): Corsair XMS2 2GB (1GBx2) 240-Pin DDR2 SDRAM DDR2 800 (PC2 6400)
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16820145590

Video Card: GeForce 8800 GTS 320MB 320-Bit PCI Express x16
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16814130082

Processor(CPU): AMD Athlon 64 X2 6000+ Windsor 3.0GHz Socket AM2
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16819103773

MotherBoard: ASUS M2N-SLI Deluxe AM2 NVIDIA nForce 570 SLI MCP ATX AMD
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16813131013

DVD Drive: SAMSUNG 20X DVD±R DVD Burner Black SATA
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16827151153

RAIDMAX SMILODON ATX-612WBP Black SECC STEEL ATX Mid Tower Computer Case 500W Power Supply - http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16811156062

[drummerboy92]

What do you plan on using this computer for? And what is your budget?

[Acal131]

Well I am building this computer as a form of experimentation you know my first PC build learning all the parts and what not its not a bad thing to know. You can kind of call this build my entry to the PC World if you'd like to call it that , but other than that some gaming wouldn't be bad hence the 8800. I don't really want to spend that much on this since I want to keep it simple and not to over the top. I will upgrade this PC soon though once I get into the whole PC Gaming thing and what not ,but I guess I could spend another $100 or $200 on this particular piece.

[Jimmy0]

If you spend another $10 you can get a 320GB hdd, if you so wish.

Also Raidmax has a bad reputation for PSU's, so if I were you I would buy a seperate Power Supply, you can check recommended brands in this topic.

[flanzig1]

would also look at a Lite-On burner in the retail package(you get the burning software). Samsung DVDs have some quailty issues.

[Windu]

I just built a system with this;

Mobo
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16813131011

This processor
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16819103771

I would reccomend the 5600+ over the 6000. The 5600 is the little brother to the FX-62, 89 watt, and has an even multiplier which uses the DDR2 ram at full speed. If you don't want the 5600, get the FX-62 with a good aftermarket cooler. This is the one that I have;
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16835185125

That is the ram that I bought as well.

[doubledragon5]

If you don't plan on doing any over clocking, then the value select would be fine.. What about a monitor and which OS are you going to use?

[Acal131]

Since I am not really that familiar with overclocking ( fill me in if you want to ) I probably won't be doing that. I currently have a monitor and all that other stuff so that won't be a need at this moment. I think I will be using Home XP with this setup.

[drummerboy92]

Overclocking isn't worth it in my opinion. Too much time, effort, and risking expensive parts involved for me.

[Acal131]

Alright so no overclocking. I took the advice and changed cases to another one an Antec Sonata III I believe. Other than that not much else changed. I think im going to stick with the same processor and everything else seems to look good for now. You think its time to make it official is this all I need to get a computer running ?

[drummerboy92]

You sure you want to go with AMD? Right now Intel has the edge performance wise. I think AMD might be a little cheaper overall though. Here are some charts of Intel and AMD processors:
http://www23.tomshardware.com/cpu_20...=873&chart=435

[Acal131]

Well I guess it's a matter of personal opinion at this point. I was looking at the Toms Hardware charts and there is no significant boost to offset the price of the Intel. I feel like AMD gives the most bang for the buck I would say for now. Is there really that much of a performance boost on the E6750 for me to warrant a change for the extra $30 bucks. I dont know 30 isnt that much more I am flexible ,but I just heard good things on the AMD I'm feeling that its the right choice for me. Other than the processor you have any more insight I could always use more. Thanks

[doubledragon5]

Intel is the best bang for the buck.. I have built me a AMD system (sig) and and intel system for my youngest. The intel cost was cheaper and hers is by far faster....

[Acal131]

Alright so I'll debate on the E6750 or the AMD one. I'll probably end up with the Intel since you guys say its much better. Anything else or am I good to go?

[drummerboy92]

If you go with the E6750, then I'd recommend getting an Asus P5K board

[Katreat]

AMD makes great CPU, but they are currently in second place. I am sure they will rebound so it is really just a personal choice. if you like AMD you can still build a great computer based on them.

The biggest advantage in Intel right now is they have an established upgrade path. The 775 socket is still being used and will likely contunue into next year at the minimum. Amd has already anounced a new socket (although they say the new processors will be backward compatable with older boards, but without the bells and whisles) so where you will go on future upgrades is very questionable.

I personally hope AMD hits a home run with theri next processor because competition is good for the consumer, but right now if you are going for the best bang for the buck I would have to recommend an Intel build. They are faster, cooler, and have a clear upgrade path ahead of them.

If you decide to go Intel check out my sig for what I have found to be a very bang for the buck gaming system but as I said if you like AMD there is nothig worng with them and you will get great performance.

Kat

[Acal131]

Alright sounds good guys. I really appreciate all the insight. Thanks for the tips and what not I am pretty familiar with the CPU's now after looking at Toms Hardware's Charts, reading some articles and reviews, and reading what you guys had to say. My decision will be a lot easier with this information. So Motherboard and Processor aside anything else I should know before ordering/changing my order. Any tips on how to build it. I am pretty solid on how to assemble all the parts I have watched some videos and read some articles so I don't believe that will be a problem ,but tips never hurt. Thanks guys

[flanzig1]

Tips:
Do a basic out of case build to check the main components.
Before mounting the motherboard in the case, dry fit the motherboard in the case to make sure that the case mounting standoffs match the mounting holes on the motherboard. Remember 1 standoff- 1 mounting hole, extra standoffs are to be removed.
And read the manuals severl times especially the motherboard manual.