Quick parts check.

[jon_e_33]

I recently built a computer for my friend, and it got me all interested in finally upgrading my rather old personal computer. Sooo, it's pretty much tradition for me to have you guys check over the build since I know there is trustworthy advice on this forum. Anyhow, thanks a lot guys. =)

I'm looking to spend about 650 dollars, $700 MAX. With the prices they are right now, it's insane the amount of power you can get for this much. I already have a 320gb Seagate Barracuda 7200.10 HDD 16MB cache which will do me fine, as well as keyboard, mouse, speakers, and a Samsung 1680*1050 20" monitor. I also have a Lite-On Sata DvD burner, practically new. I'll stick with the copy of WinXP home I have too.

Mobo: Asus p5k SE. 93$
http://www.newegg.com/product/produc...82E16813131189

CPU: C2Q9300 285$
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16819115043

GPU: eVGA 8800gt. 160$
http://www.zipzoomfly.com/jsp/Produc...tCode=10007134

PSU: CORSAIR CMPSU-650TX 79$
http://www.zipzoomfly.com/jsp/Produc...tCode=10007111

RAM: Crucial Ballistix Tracer 2GB 31$
http://www.newegg.com/product/produc...82E16820148076

Once I save up a bit more money over the summer, it's all going in this case:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...40&Tpk=soprano

This equals about $648 dollars after rebates, which is fine. I definitely want to run a quad-core system since I will be doing lots of multitasking, but I did consider using a q6600. In the end though, the 45nm just seemed worth the extra money. Also, if anybody wants to recommend an AMD build with a similar processor, prolly the 9850 black edition, http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16819103249, I'd appreciate the input.

So I have a question: I've always used Corsair RAM and been happy with it. However, the Corsair RAM I was considering lost it's rebate, essentially doubling it in price. I know Crucial has a good reputation, but I'm just not familiar with them. From what I understand, you want a lower CAS rating if possible, and this RAM is rated at 4CAS with 4-4-4-12 timings, but people on Newegg are saying that you only get this if you are in SLI mode. This doesn't make sense to me, but I don't understand how RAM works that well. Any comments on if I should stick with this RAM or get another in the same price range would be appreciated. I do not overclock.

Thanks again!

[metzger385]

your build doesnt look that bad to me but im not the smart with INtel.

I just posted my final parts list with AMD on this thread here:
http://forum.pcmech.com/showthread.php?t=196490

Do you need a HDD? if so check the one on my list.

Also if you can spare the extra money take a look at my video card as well. i know Newegg link is discontinued but you can find another make like it.

Are you going to be overclocking?

If so make sure to get a new heatsink and fan. There is one on my list as well.

Hope i helped and good luck!

[liambl]

I don't think the performance increase offererd by the 8800GTS over the 8800GT is enough to warrant the price increase.

Intel systems tend to dislike CAS4 RAM, get CAS5 instead.

[jon_e_33]

Metzger: I don't need a HDD, I have a Seagate Barracuda 320gb already that I will use. And I already spent more on the videocard than I had originally planned. Besides, I got a pretty good deal I think.


http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16820227124

That RAM is a CAS 5 set, would that be a better choice? Even though it's intensely ugly, I can't argue with the price. ;o




Can anyone recommend excessively quiet case fans too?

Thanks again all.

[Katreat]

Generally I have heard the same thing about ram, with intel if you are not OC'ing the system you will be more stable with CAS5. I have never used OCZ but have heard they have good ram so you will probably be fine. The case comes with 120 and 140 mm fans so I would give those a try frist. I have found all the fans bigger than the 80s to be pretty quiet. Over all looks like a nice build.

Kat