$2000 AMD all-around complete rig

[TurtleFan]

I am putting together an AMD complete system (monitor, input devies, etc.) on a budget of $2000. I think I got everything covered, just worried about the MB. Please review and make suggestions.

[vtfanmv5]

That's a fine PSU but you don't need a kilowatt. You could get a solid 600-700W supply for nearly half that price.

The video card isn't a great choice. You can get the stronger 4850 for much less than that card, or you can get the much stronger 4870 for $50 more.

Don't have experience with AMD boards, but I haven't heard great things about BIOSTAR.

[Force Flow]

I'd suggest going intel with either an Intel or Asus motherboard. It's a stable combination and has a good upgrade path for later. Also, no real reason to go for a more expensive quad core for normal desktop use or gaming, other than for bragging rights.

Asus P5Q $129.99: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16819115037

Intel C2D e8400 $169.99: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16819115037


Corsair RAM that's a little less expensive: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16820145184


BenQ monitor that's less expensive: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16824014172

I've purchased several of the 19" model of these for work, and one for my PC at home. I've been quite pleased with the results. Note that they do not come with built-in speakers if that was a requirement. You're better of with headphones or an inexpensive 2.1 stereo system.


I agree on the video card. Go with either an ATi 4850 or 4870. They run circles around the nvidia 9800 GTX+ (much to my disappointment )

4850: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16814102747
4870: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16814131113

[TurtleFan]

Thanks for the suggestions. I am going with the AMD processor, really don't like Intel. I have updated my list with a few of your suggestions, please review and make sure everything is compatible.

[Force Flow]

You're better off getting one 4870 than two 4850's. Take a look at this thread: http://forum.pcmech.com/showthread.php?t=200133

The optical drive you selected does not have blu-ray capabilities. It's CD/DVD only. Good drive, though, if that's all you're looking for.


Just curious, why don't you like intel. IMHO, they've produced some of the most stable stuff in the last couple years and has a wide range of CPU support for the 775 socket. AMD...well...a few years ago I was a big fan when the Socket A line was going strong, but it went downhill after that. I still highly reccommend the motherboard/CPU combo I suggested.

[tyrael]

If you really like AMD, then that's fine, because I like AMD too.

However, for $2000 I would suggest getting an Intel 8500 Core 2 or higher and overclock it with an aftermarket heatsink, and wait just a few more days for the ATI 4870x2 which will give you an amazing gaming setup. Setup you currently have looks pretty decent though.

[vtfanmv5]

Originally Posted by tyrael If you really like AMD, then that's fine, because I like AMD too. However, for $2000 I would suggest getting an Intel 8500 Core 2 or higher and overclock it with an aftermarket heatsink, and wait just a few more days for the ATI 4870x2 which will give you an amazing gaming setup. Setup you currently have looks pretty decent though.

The Radeon 4870X2s are already out.

And I'll just put my input in - I also agree that Intel is a better choice at this time.