New build, just checking to make sure it looks good...

[barch 88]

Haven't build a computer in a good ~5 years or so, my current desktop is out of date, AGP Mobo, AMD 3500+, and just overall it would be easier to build a new rig rather than try and upgrade.

I'm looking to just game with this PC, mainly just WoW, and other MMO's, so I figure the 8600GT Card should be good to run full-max settings. I'm coming from a 6600GT, so the upgrade should be noticeable. I can't find the old 8800GT's that everyone used to rave about a year or two ago.

Anyways, here's the rundown:

Case
MOBO
CPU
PSU
VGA
RAM
Heatsink
HDD
CD/DVD Drive - Not going to go to Blu Ray yet, since I have a HDTV and PS3 to watch movies on.

So how does it look, good choice in processor, mobo, ram, etc. I tried to stick with some name-brands I know, will it all go together correctly? If I ever wanted to run SLI, would this rig have the power and hardware to make it happen? One last question, should I worry about a sound card? I have one in my current computer, but how decent is the onboard sound?

Thanks!

[glc]

I would advise you to forego SLI and a Nvidia chipset if you want an Intel processor. Look at an Asus P5Q SE Plus. Also look at a WD Black hard drive, ATI video card such as a HD 4670, and a DVD burner instead of just a rom drive.

If you really want SLI, you should get an i7 on a X58 chipset, or do an AMD build. You also don't need XP Pro, XP Home will be fine.

The other option is a P5Q Pro Turbo, with the possibility of doing Crossfire later. Either way, I don't think that PSU is strong enough for multiple gaming video cards, both ATI and Nvidia have certification programs that you need to look at.

You don't need the aftermarket heatsink.

[barch 88]

Alright, I'll probably forget about SLI/Crossfire then. I'm checking out the PQ5-Plus SE now, looks fine, pretty basic. I do perfer Intel over AMD. Other than the ATI Card, what GeForce cards do you recommend?

As far as the heatsink goes, the reviews from the stock one with this processor makes it out to sound like crap, so I don't mind picking up this one to keep my CPU extra cool.

[Khalil]

What reviews? There is nothing wrong with the heatsink on the E8xxx series, the other heatsink will void your warranty and you won't get much benefit, not worth it to get 2 degrees cooler if that.

[glc]

These days, ATI has left Nvidia in the dust with the lower priced cards. However, if you insist on Nvidia, read this article first and choose carefully:

http://www.tomshardware.com/reviews/...card,2404.html

The 9600GT is the only Nvidia under $100 even worth a look.

I have a E8400 and it's running Folding @ Home 24/7, which keeps the CPU running at 100% load. I have the stock heatsink and the temperature has never gone higher than 59c, even with a heatsink full of dust.

[barch 88]

I wasn't aware the aftermarket heatsink would void my warranty. I'll save the 50 bucks then, keep the stock one.

Yeah, I think I'll just pick up the 9600GT with the PQ5-Plus SE Mobo, and same CPU I listed eariler. I'm usually an Antec man, but how should that OCZ PSU stand up with that hardware? Should I downgrade to something around 500-550 Watt maybe, is that a bit overkill?

Also, this RAM should work well with the PQ5 board, right?

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16820231283

Changed up my HDD to this, lmk what you all think:

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16822136320

thanks

[glc]

Good hard drive choice. If you are more comfortable with an Antec PSU, the Earthwatts 500 is priced well at this time.

That's going way overboard on the ram - I would stick with some quality DDR2-800. I'm running Corsair in mine. If you go to the Asus site, you can download the QVL for that motherboard, which will list all tested ram.

[Khalil]

You don't like the 9600GSO George?

[glc]

Price and availability. However, the Asus is on weekend special. At regular price, the 4670 is a better deal.