What am I Missing???

[simplepinoi177]

Hello all! I bow down in respect to everyone’s vast and deep knowledge here and hope/pray for your insight and guidance.
I am a person who is fairly knowledgeable in general electronics. I have a good understanding of statistics and specs of a PC; specification data (how much data space is in a GB. What is a good size RAM. How fast is ghz or mhz.) I have always been able to shop for a good enough PC [already built/pre assembled] using guidelines as to how much RAM, processor speed, video card (somewhat), etc. that they have; but I have never built a PC from the ground up. It is a daunting task to go from buying an already assembled PC to one that you start yourself; one must consider power supply and motherboard/systemboard/chipset, setting up drivers and BIOS, etc. So please, I implore, that I am an uber noob when it comes to this, so please don’t super flame me. I most likely don’t completely understand what I presume or state….I know I must have many wrong assumptions and am in need (almost desperate need) of clarification… As according to the title, because I’m deeply inexperienced with this, I am most surely missing something/many things. If you please, can you let me know what it/they may be?
My father customized his first 2 computers by going to a well reputable computer shop and having the technician assemble the hardware. He would either give the technician a specific component/hardware he wanted in the PC (like a list), or have the technician decide what’s best. As it being a decade since he last did this (so he is considerably out of touch with what may be current/top of the line), and my apparent obvious growing aptitude for electronics and computers, he requested from me that I take over this next PC build for us (as we will share this PC). He recently came into a considerable amount of money and wished me to try and make a PC that is top-of-the-line (relatively, without amounting it to the price of a car or home theater). I do not know whether or not I will build the PC myself, or go the route of having all the components brought to a computer store and having a technician assemble it. I must say, I am a bit afraid/hesitant to try it on my own for the very first time. Again, I have absolutely no experience inside a PC (wires, shorting, cable bunching, mounting, BIOS settings, etc.) and can only depend on my fairly decent experience is on recognizing specs.
This PC will be used for gaming and video and picture editing. My father will be using Avid Liquid 7 for his video editing, but I am sure he will upgrade/update to a better Avid product with this PC.

From the few short hours of research (so obviously a lot of room for improvement most likely), here is my build so far…

Processor: Intel Core i7-2600K Sandy Bridge 3.4GHz (3.8GHz Turbo Boost) LGA 1155 95W Quad-Core Desktop Processor (edited/changed; original post: Intel® Core™2 Quad Processor Q9650)
RAM: G.SKILL Ripjaws Series 8GB (2 x 4GB) 240-Pin DDR3 SDRAM DDR3 1333 (PC3 10666) Desktop Memory (have read GREAT things about this RAM chip)
OR Patriot Viper Xtreme Series, Division 2 Edition 8GB (2 x 4GB) 240-Pin DDR3 SDRAM DDR3 1600 (PC3 12800)
OR CORSAIR XMS3 6GB (3 x 2GB) 240-Pin DDR3 SDRAM DDR3 1600 (PC3 12800) Triple Channel Kit Desktop Memory DDR3 1600 (PC3 12800) (budget/cheaper route)
Graphics Card: Nvidia’s Geforce GTX 580 (edited/changed; original post: 1gtx580 or dual (2) AMD Radeon HD 6970)
Motherboard:?ASUS Rampage III (leaning to this because: CES 2011 Innovations- Design and Engineering Award)? or ?ASUS P67 Pro? or suggestions…
Power Supply: Corsair HX-850
Cooling: ZALMAN CNPS9700 LED 110mm 2 Ball CPU Cooler or CORSAIR Hydro H70 CWCH70 120mm High Performance CPU Cooler
Sound: Soundblaster X-Fi HD Titanium
Hard Drives: Seagate 2TB 3.5” 7200rpm HDDs ST320005N1A1AS-RK x2 (System Drive/Storage Drive [C:/D:])
Optical Drives: LITE-ON Blu-ray Burner with 3D Playback SATA iHBS212 LightScribe and/& ASUS 24X DVD Burner - Bulk Black SATA Model DRW-24B1ST/BLK/B/AS
Casing: Per Suggestions by those here or by the technician who may put it together. (I assume he would know better and what is needed/best for what I am listing)
Operating System: Microsoft Windows 7 Professional 64-bit
Monitor: LG 22LC2D-UB

Now here are my questions, concerns, and worries.
1st question concerns my graphics card(s). Do you suggest a single Geforce GTX580 or double up/dual AMD Radeon 6970? From what I’ve read, it might be better to set up a dual 6970 than setting up a single gtx580 and, if need be, upgrade later by installing a second Geforce (reasons being that in the end one would never really add a second 580 but install a newer card that can perform as well as two last-generation Nvidea Geforce cards).

2nd question concerns my motherboard. First and foremost, can any of my planned motherboards achieve/maintain all that I want to put into the PC (listed hardware/components). If not, please post or list motherboards that can achieve this. If none can, please explain which component cannot and why it cannot. [my concern is that there is not enough connections, or what not] Second concern is if I go the dual 6970 route, I’ve read that I would need to use AMD’s CrossfireX (I don’t really understand what it is other than, I assume, it connects the two graphics cards? [I know this may be a very simplistic way of looking at it]) I know the Rampage III or P67 can hold a single unit of the GTX580, but I am not certain/sure/confirmed if it can hold dual graphic cards like 2 6970. If not, what do you suggest for a motherboard? If anything, what motherboard can also be good for a possible upgrade in the future; i.e. 2+ Radeon 6970 (read someone had 4) or 1+ GTX580?

3rd question concerns the RAM memory. From my experience, 2GB of ram is the bare minimum, and 4GB can achieve most regular computers (was overkill a few years ago, but it is still applicable and reasonable currently). I’ve read that Dell and Sony and other name brands have even started putting in 6GB in some computers, and I think I’ve even seen an Asus computer hit 8GB. Keeping in mind the goal of some “futureproofing,” is my 8 GB (2x4GB) enough? In searching for good RAM memory chips, I’ve found that there are even 12GB or 16GB(?!?!) of RAM being sold!!! My question is, would it be overkill to get a 12 or 16 GB RAM module?

4th question concerns cooling. My understanding is that not every unit needs a cooling system. Much of the cooling/venting is treated through the power supply’s vent and the type of casing a PC has. But from what it seems, the hardware I’m putting in would need added cooling/ventilation? Again, because of my inexperience and ignorance of hardware into a PC, this is only a guess and assumption with no actual facts I can put into the assumption (but it seems right/logical assumption). Is this correct? From the looks of what I am trying to put into the PC, would I need the added cooling? And is the Zalman good enough? (from what I’ve read, it is very capable and good enough). I almost slipped up in deciding on a cooling hardware because, apparently, these need to be “compatible” with the motherboard and processor you may be running.

Other facts to be considered is, at the moment, I/we are not interested in 3D technology for the PC, but may be in the future. Another thing, I imagine/believe that 2 optical drives should be enough for a PC (one to read/one to burn/copy if anything), but then again, this assumption has stayed the same for over a decade. I can’t imagine why, but would getting more than 2 optical drives be beneficial? Also, depending on the motherboard I imagine, how many USB ports can I get out of this build? Optimally, I would want around 3 or 4 USB ports in the front, and at least 4 in the back. I know this comes down to the casing and what my technician/builder can do/organize, but what are your thoughts? Plausable?
Another random concern is USB 3.0 and/or HDMI 1.4+. Should I go out of my way to include these? For example, I know of people having experience of buying an expensive (at the time) top of the line enormous tv that maxed out at 1080i (which was the latest technology at the time) but things settled on 1080p not too long after. I do not wish for me to be shorthanded in the future by not setting these up. Should I?

Please any input, clarification, or suggestions, or even criticism is welcome (I just ask that please don’t flame or insult as I admittingly don’t completely know what I’m doing [bordering on barely knowing what I’m doing] and am here to learn)…any at all…
I know, most likely, I am missing something/a lot...

Thank you very much for your time and consideration.

[glc]

I'm not going to try to answer every question you have, but I'm going to suggest a high end build for you. I am going to go for maximum value, not bleeding edge technology. I will add some notes at the bottom.

Newegg.com - COOLER MASTER RC-692-KKN3 CM690 II Basic Black Steel ATX Mid Tower Computer Case

Newegg.com - CORSAIR Professional Series AX850 850W ATX12V v2.31 / EPS12V v2.92 80 PLUS GOLD Certified Modular Active PFC Power Supply

Newegg.com - ASUS P8P67 EVO LGA 1155 Intel P67 SATA 6Gb/s USB 3.0 ATX Intel Motherboard

Newegg.com - Intel Core i7-2600 Sandy Bridge 3.4GHz (3.8GHz Turbo Boost) 4 x 256KB L2 Cache 8MB L3 Cache LGA 1155 95W Quad-Core Desktop Processor BX80623I72600

Newegg.com - CORSAIR XMS 8GB (2 x 4GB) 240-Pin DDR3 SDRAM DDR3 1600 (PC3 12800) Desktop Memory Model CMX8GX3M2A1600C9

Newegg.com - Western Digital Caviar Black WD6402AAEX 640GB 7200 RPM 64MB Cache SATA 6.0Gb/s 3.5" Internal Hard Drive -Bare Drive

Newegg.com - Western Digital Caviar Black WD2001FASS 2TB 7200 RPM 64MB Cache SATA 3.0Gb/s 3.5" Internal Hard Drive -Bare Drive

Newegg.com - LITE-ON Black 12X BD-R 2X BD-RE 16X DVD+R 12X DVD-RAM 8X BD-ROM 8MB Cache SATA Internal Blu-ray Burner 12X Blu-ray Burner with Blu-ray 3D feature Model iHBS112 - Blu-Ray Burners

Newegg.com - LG Black 24X DVD+R 8X DVD+RW 16X DVD+R DL 24X DVD-R 6X DVD-RW 12X DVD-RAM 16X DVD-ROM 48X CD-R 32X CD-RW 48X CD-ROM SATA DVD Burner - Bulk - CD / DVD Burners

Newegg.com - ASUS EAH6970/2DI2S/2GD5 Radeon HD 6970 2GB 256-bit GDDR5 PCI Express 2.1 x16 HDCP Ready CrossFireX Support Video Card with Eyefinity

Okay - why no sound card? The onboard sound these days is excellent, and you can always add one later. A single 6970 is all you need for a high end gamer, but I speced a power supply that can handle 2 if you really need it. The stock heatsink/fan that comes with the CPU is plenty adequate, and you don't need any additional cooling.

[simplepinoi177]

Thank you very much for your reply and suggestions glc! I really appreciate it.
As I've found out very recently, my processor is 2 generations old and the suggestion of yours for the Sandy Bridge processors is the current, more pertinent, and correct choice.
May I ask (for my better understanding and learning) why my psu and ram aren't enough/you suggest different? What is the reasoning behind not using them? I am not doubting you or having any sort of attachment to them, I am simply wondering what they may be lacking or what understanding I may be lacking in terms of them. Also, what do you think of the Rampage III or the Ripjaws Series 8GB? I have heard/seen/read a lot of great things about these, yet you suggest differently. I am wondering what makes these "not make the cut."
Also, thank you for confirming the motherboard I was considering as well as suggesting a case to hold all of these as well. Because of your evident knowledge, I am sure it is a really good case.
Thank you again so very much for your help. I appreciate the consideration you give with having it go maximum value without bleeding edge. Also, your insights on the sound, cooling, and foresight of the psu in case I do decide on doubling up on the 6970. I'm glad that, other than the processor, my other propositions came out to be in line/correct.

[Nuclear Krusader]

G.skill memory has been having A LOT of compatibility issues, that's why they don't "make the cut".

Also, you had initially chosen a Seagate HDD: Seagate Barracudas have been dying as if there had been a major oil spill.

[David M]

Originally Posted by simplepinoi177 May I ask (for my better understanding and learning) why my psu and ram aren't enough/you suggest different?

The AX series versus HX are Corsairs very best PSU's

Professional Series

They also have a 7 year versus 5 year warranty as well as higher specifications.

[simplepinoi177]

Hey, thanks a lot for your guys's input! It's really helping in the decision making/considerations...

Originally Posted by Nuclear Krusader G.skill memory has been having A LOT of compatibility issues, that's why they don't "make the cut". Also, you had initially chosen a Seagate HDD: Seagate Barracudas have been dying as if there had been a major oil spill.

G.skill; that's why. Now I understand...thank you! Also, it's surprising to hear that about the Seagates! I chose them because of their awesome warranty (5 years i believe) and reputation. What about the Constellations HDDs? Have you heard anything on them? (Model:ST32000644NS) Newegg has them 4 eggs out of 4 reviews, so not perfect it seems... Are the Western Digital 2tb 7200rpm ones good and stable?

Originally Posted by David M The AX series versus HX are Corsairs very best PSU's Professional Series They also have a 7 year versus 5 year warranty as well as higher specifications.

Thank you for this information. I have dually noted this and changed it. You make a lot of sense.

Also, as I inquired before, i'm interested in everyone's opinion. Is 12gb or even 16gb of RAM overkill? I can hardly believe it, but I'm seeing 24GBs of RAM even!!! Are these overkill? Thank you.

P.S. Noob question...but is there a reason why I cannot go to my first post and edit it? Is there a time limit to edit one's post here?

[Staren]

The thing about computer components and many other electronics is that there can be bad batches come off the assembly line at any time. One of the best resources that the PCMech forums have as a group is a large number of builders. Since there are so many people testing parts, we see the trends quickly when a brand has a bad run. Both G.Skill and Seagate are good manufactures most of the time. Both of those brands are in the system I'm typing on right now. But until the next design cycle comes around it's better to be safe since there are more then enough other brands out there.

As for your question the amount of ram, the answer is it depends. Generally the rule of thumb is, if your happy with your other components, throw as much ram at a system as it will hold and your budget can stand because it will be used. However, at some point you start getting diminishing returns. Right now most games and high end programs like video editors for example are comfortable at 8Gbs. They have enough space to load what they need into working memory. 12 is good breathing room if you have a lot going on and you can afford it I think. 16 I would probably consider overkill unless your computer regularly churns on a lot of big files like RAW photos or long HD video.

[Nuclear Krusader]

Western Digital is the HDD brand to go right now.

And yes, there's a time limit for editing your posts. You can always post again, makes it easier for us to keep continuity and prevents us from missing something because we're not accustomed to go back all the time to re-read posts.

[glc]

The WD Black drives also have a 5 year warranty. My first choice was also Seagate till a couple of years ago. They had a major firmware disaster which I'm not convinced that they have recovered from. I'd build with 8gb, you can always add more later. That's why I specified a 4gb x 2 kit, you will have 2 more slots available. Same concept as adding a sound card if needed.

Note that I specified a 640gb and a 2tb - the 640 is for your OS and software, using a 2tb is overkill. Just keep adding more 2tb drives when you need more storage. Graphics and video files can use a lot of space.

[simplepinoi177]

Thank you guys for your input!

Originally Posted by Staren The thing about computer components and many other electronics is that there can be bad batches come off the assembly line at any time. One of the best resources that the PCMech forums have as a group is a large number of builders. Since there are so many people testing parts, we see the trends quickly when a brand has a bad run. Both G.Skill and Seagate are good manufactures most of the time. Both of those brands are in the system I'm typing on right now. But until the next design cycle comes around it's better to be safe since there are more then enough other brands out there. As for your question the amount of ram, the answer is it depends. Generally the rule of thumb is, if your happy with your other components, throw as much ram at a system as it will hold and your budget can stand because it will be used. However, at some point you start getting diminishing returns. Right now most games and high end programs like video editors for example are comfortable at 8Gbs. They have enough space to load what they need into working memory. 12 is good breathing room if you have a lot going on and you can afford it I think. 16 I would probably consider overkill unless your computer regularly churns on a lot of big files like RAW photos or long HD video.

I am very glad/thankful I found this forum. It is good to know that I am in very good company and that one of the great things about being here is that it shows what you say; shows trends and such.
In addition, thank you for your input about the ram. You are the 1st/only person to address it and I was getting worried about having a firm response/resolution by the time of the final decision. What you state makes sense. There is budget for 12 gb, but I wonder how necessary it is for anything inside of the near future...but if I go that route, what RAM would be good for 12gb? I'm seeing/thinking F3-10666CL7T-12GBRH (Newegg.com - G.SKILL Ripjaws Series 12GB (3 x 4GB) 240-Pin DDR3 SDRAM DDR3 1333 (PC3 10666) Desktop Memory Model F3-10666CL7T-12GBRH), but I can't confirm if it would be compatible with the P67. Am I overreaching with that suggestion?

Originally Posted by Nuclear Krusader Western Digital is the HDD brand to go right now. And yes, there's a time limit for editing your posts. You can always post again, makes it easier for us to keep continuity and prevents us from missing something because we're not accustomed to go back all the time to re-read posts.

Thanks for letting me know about this. I remember when it was Seagate being the "brand to go right now" and WD had a lot of returns and faulty hdds.
As per making edits to one's post, thanks for letting me know. Your experience is helpful. I simply wanted to edit/change the list at the 1st post, rather than re-listing the whole list with the updated/changed components...

Thank you again for your suggestions, inputs, and critiques.

[simplepinoi177]

Originally Posted by glc The WD Black drives also have a 5 year warranty. My first choice was also Seagate till a couple of years ago. They had a major firmware disaster which I'm not convinced that they have recovered from. I'd build with 8gb, you can always add more later. That's why I specified a 4gb x 2 kit, you will have 2 more slots available. Same concept as adding a sound card if needed. Note that I specified a 640gb and a 2tb - the 640 is for your OS and software, using a 2tb is overkill. Just keep adding more 2tb drives when you need more storage. Graphics and video files can use a lot of space.

Yes that seems to be the case (about WD and Seagate).

Yes, thank you for the foresight in your suggestion where, if need be, 2 more slots were to be available if I decided to go that route sometime in the future.

Yes, I was thinking so as well for the OS/Software drive, but it was requested by the other user of the computer as well as he loads a lot of raw video and such unto the program folder (...or something, i'm not really sure as I do not use his program).

I really appreciate you, a forum administrator and premium member, helping me out with suggestions and insight. I know you have much to do and just wanted to show my gratitude for your time and consideration.

[cantputt04]

Some of the memory you've listed as considering to buy is triple channel (in the case of either 6 or 12GB kits). Triple Channel memory currently is only compatible with the X58 chipset (socket 1366). For Sandy Bridge, you'd want Dual Channel memory, and 8GB is just fine. Chances are, for an every day user / gamer, you'd never even go anywhere near using all 8GB, so I wouldn't worry about getting more.

As far as a case goes, you want to look for any case with reviews stating good air flow and lots of breathing room. In one of the stickies it mentions all the good brands to get cases from (Antec, Cooler Master, Lian-Li, Thermaltake just to name a few). Do a Newegg search for cases made by those 4, find one in your desired price range, and chances are, you'll find one you'll like. Some higher end cases come with behind the mobo cable management, swappable hard drive bays, giant fans with LEDs, etc. Bells and whistles basically. Really all you need is something functional that will be convenient for you to work with.

As a for instance, anything made by Antec you will like. I've used their 900 case (lawl signature), and it was absolutely great to work with. Lots of air flow, room in the case to move around. I don't have a modular PSU so the wiring is a little crowded but not too bad. Just an example, you could probably find all that info in the reviews anyhow.

As far as USBs are concerned, I wouldn't worry about not having enough. All the Asus P67 motherboards come with like, 8+ USBs in the back, and most cases have at least a couple in the front that'll connect to some headers on the motherboard.

Just my 2 cents to help you along.

[glc]

Why are you still looking at G.skill ram? Not a particularly wise choice for reasons that have already been stated. We have members here who have had issues with it recently.

I second the recommendation to get 8gb for now. I trust the Corsair kit I linked. I like the Coolermaster case I linked, it has excellent cooling and cable management. Of course, there are plenty of other good cases out there.

Raw video should not be loaded on the OS/programs drive. That's not a good idea.

[quartet-man]

I am one who was stung by G.skill memory (for the system in my sig). Getting it was a costly error in time, money and aggravation. I had to get other memory. Don't make the same mistake.

I have always gotten Western Digital Drives except for a Seagate external (before I built my own). They have always been good for me.

[simplepinoi177]

Heh, yeah i knew the memory/ram I asked about would probably not work out...

Originally Posted by cantputt04 Some of the memory you've listed as considering to buy is triple channel (in the case of either 6 or 12GB kits). Triple Channel memory currently is only compatible with the X58 chipset (socket 1366). For Sandy Bridge, you'd want Dual Channel memory, and 8GB is just fine. Chances are, for an every day user / gamer, you'd never even go anywhere near using all 8GB, so I wouldn't worry about getting more. As far as a case goes, you want to look for any case with reviews stating good air flow and lots of breathing room. In one of the stickies it mentions all the good brands to get cases from (Antec, Cooler Master, Lian-Li, Thermaltake just to name a few). Do a Newegg search for cases made by those 4, find one in your desired price range, and chances are, you'll find one you'll like. Some higher end cases come with behind the mobo cable management, swappable hard drive bays, giant fans with LEDs, etc. Bells and whistles basically. Really all you need is something functional that will be convenient for you to work with. As a for instance, anything made by Antec you will like. I've used their 900 case (lawl signature), and it was absolutely great to work with. Lots of air flow, room in the case to move around. I don't have a modular PSU so the wiring is a little crowded but not too bad. Just an example, you could probably find all that info in the reviews anyhow. As far as USBs are concerned, I wouldn't worry about not having enough. All the Asus P67 motherboards come with like, 8+ USBs in the back, and most cases have at least a couple in the front that'll connect to some headers on the motherboard. Just my 2 cents to help you along.

Thanks cantputt04 for the information and insight. ESPECIALLY your info and suggestions towards a PC case. I will really take it under advisement when choosing one. If anything, I may strongly heed glc's advice and consider the Cooler Master CM690. And thank you for putting your own rig's case as an example. It will be a really good reference for what will be a good one.
Also, I want so say how much I appreciate you answering my questions/query about the USB ports. It has eased a bit of my concerns (in that respect) and helped me plan accordingly.

Originally Posted by glc Why are you still looking at G.skill ram? Not a particularly wise choice for reasons that have already been stated. We have members here who have had issues with it recently. I second the recommendation to get 8gb for now. I trust the Corsair kit I linked. I like the Coolermaster case I linked, it has excellent cooling and cable management. Of course, there are plenty of other good cases out there. Raw video should not be loaded on the OS/programs drive. That's not a good idea.

I was only looking at the G.skill because I was simply exploring my options. I merely looked for a 12gb ram set, and the one that had the highest reviews. I also didn't know (and learned through this) that that would be the wrong type of ram as well. That they are "triple channel" and I would need a "dual channel" set up. Also, I do recall that members here saying that there have been many problems with the G.skill rams, but it is what came up in the search and what was highest reviewed..
And believe me, I very much trust all that you have suggested. Most surely, yours is the one I will build because you have put such great balance and value into all the components. For my education/learning, I am trying to see other options or set ups.
But thank you again for your critiques. I very much value your input and help.

Originally Posted by quartet-man I am one who was stung by G.skill memory (for the system in my sig). Getting it was a costly error in time, money and aggravation. I had to get other memory. Don't make the same mistake. I have always gotten Western Digital Drives except for a Seagate external (before I built my own). They have always been good for me.

Thanks you so very much for sharing your experience quartet-man! I really am grateful learning from it. I have definitely taken off the G.Skill.

[glc]

Let's talk about cases a bit. The choice of a case is somewhat personal - you want a case that looks good to you. People have widely differing opinions on what "looking good" means. I'm a fan of "understatement" - I don't particularly care for cases with a bunch of lights, windows, and styling. However, I insist on construction quality. I don't like cases that are flimsy and/or have a bunch of sharp edges inside. I also don't like a case that has a ton of noisy fans.

The CM690 is a very well made case that has a minimum of "eye candy". It's my favorite case in its price range. It does have a blue LED fan in the front, which I don't really care for, but it has a switch to turn it off.

If you like lights and styling, the Antec Nine Hundred is an excellent case.

Newegg.com - Antec Nine Hundred Black Steel ATX Mid Tower Computer Case

Now - what do I have? I bought a Rocketfish case from Best Buy when they were blowing them out.

Amazon.com: Rocketfish Full Tower Aluminum PC Case: Electronics

This has to be one of the best-made cases I've ever seen and it's totally understated. The construction quality is unequaled. It's made by Lian-Li, who in my opinion is the highest quality case manufacturer out there. This was a $249 case and I got it for 47 bucks. It appears to be very similar to the Lian Li PC-A71B which is also discontinued.

[simplepinoi177]

Originally Posted by glc Let's talk about cases a bit. The choice of a case is somewhat personal - you want a case that looks good to you. People have widely differing opinions on what "looking good" means. I'm a fan of "understatement" - I don't particularly care for cases with a bunch of lights, windows, and styling. However, I insist on construction quality. I don't like cases that are flimsy and/or have a bunch of sharp edges inside. I also don't like a case that has a ton of noisy fans. The CM690 is a very well made case that has a minimum of "eye candy". It's my favorite case in its price range. It does have a blue LED fan in the front, which I don't really care for, but it has a switch to turn it off. If you like lights and styling, the Antec Nine Hundred is an excellent case. Newegg.com - Antec Nine Hundred Black Steel ATX Mid Tower Computer Case Now - what do I have? I bought a Rocketfish case from Best Buy when they were blowing them out. Amazon.com: Rocketfish Full Tower Aluminum PC Case: Electronics This has to be one of the best-made cases I've ever seen and it's totally understated. The construction quality is unequaled. It's made by Lian-Li, who in my opinion is the highest quality case manufacturer out there. This was a $249 case and I got it for 47 bucks. It appears to be very similar to the Lian Li PC-A71B which is also discontinued.

This post was VERY informative. Thank you for the info. The case that is used currently is one that is clear see-through on one side. I kind of like that aesthetic. After that, I simply am looking for a really good quality, superbly ventilated, and well built. Thank you for the suggestions of both ends of the spectrum and the corresponding information.

[glc]

If you want a window, the Antec Nine Hundred may be exactly what you need. At a higher price, look at the Lian Li aluminum cases, they have several with windows.

[simplepinoi177]

Originally Posted by glc If you want a window, the Antec Nine Hundred may be exactly what you need. At a higher price, look at the Lian Li aluminum cases, they have several with windows.

Thank you for pointing out the quality of the Lian Li cases. Because you so highly recommend it, I am most likely going to purchase one from them. If you can, can you please look and check out the comarisons I've made for Lian Li aluminum cases with "side panels"? I simply searched for Lian Li cases with side panels and compared the top 5 best reviewed... link: Newegg.com - Computer Parts, PC Components, Laptop Computers, LED LCD TV, Digital Cameras and more!
I'm leaning towards the LIAN LI PC-P50WB because it seems to have extra slots and 2 extra fans (for ventilation.) It also seems to have an "easy to install" design and has the "upgradibility" to be equipped with 8 PCI slots and can hold three or more graphics card to support CrossfireX and 3-way SLI. But if all that is unneeded overkill (like "super high quality" HDMI cord vs $3 HDMI cord), please let me know.
Also, I was going through newegg's guided search and saw that there are cases with material like steel or aluminum&steel. I can't say I see much steel PC cases. Are those better for ventilation and heat distribution? Should I seriously consider getting a steel case or will the cases in the above comparison be adequate enough? Also, I'm assuming "0.8 mm SECC, Plastic + Mesh" is a lower quality than full on aluminum, but I would like to confirm; is it a lower quality?

Thanks for getting back to me and helping me. Sorry for all the questions, but I appreciate you helping me out (and with these furthur questions as well.)

[birddog_61]

If you like side windows and lots of airflow the antec is great, for me it came down to the antec nine hundred or the Thermaltake v9 blacx edition from newegg. I went with the Thermaltake because I wanted the dual hot swap docks built into the top, usb 3.0 front port, and I like that its tool free. Tool free means you don't have to put screws in everything your going to mount, you just use the supplied clips and it holds everything in place. Also I don't know if this has already changed or not, but I notice you have the 2600k listed as your processor, unless you are going to mess with overclocking there is no need for this processor. Instead buy the standard i7 2600, it will save you some money and be just as fast.

[glc]

I would not get the P50WB - it's biased more towards front drive bays than internal bays. I'd get the PC-60 if you want a Lian Li.

[simplepinoi177]

Originally Posted by birddog_61 If you like side windows and lots of airflow the antec is great, for me it came down to the antec nine hundred or the Thermaltake v9 blacx edition from newegg. I went with the Thermaltake because I wanted the dual hot swap docks built into the top, usb 3.0 front port, and I like that its tool free. Tool free means you don't have to put screws in everything your going to mount, you just use the supplied clips and it holds everything in place. Also I don't know if this has already changed or not, but I notice you have the 2600k listed as your processor, unless you are going to mess with overclocking there is no need for this processor. Instead buy the standard i7 2600, it will save you some money and be just as fast.

Thanks birddog. You guys have given me a lot to consider in terms of PC Cases. It looks like your case is pretty cool, with it being very well ventilated and tool free and the hot swap docks. I don't really know anything about material though, so I don't know if it being a "mesh" material or being a full aluminum material makes it better or worse.
Also, I'll keep what you say about the "k" under consideration. I don't think I'll be overclocking anytime soon (it'll be new top of the line now), but when things slow down as more heavy programs get used as we come along the future, I might overclock then. But thank you, I was not aware there was a K model and a non-K model.

Again, hopefully you guys have checked out the my comparison link as I'm very interested in the difference between them as well as if the case I was looking at is a good one. Thank you.

Also, glc, I'm wondering as to why the motherboard you suggested wasn't the higher end P8P67 Deluxe or Evolution one?

P.S. I will also post (in the next different post) my updated/almost finalized list of components (if anything, to re-confirm them).

[simplepinoi177]

My updated/almost finalized list (because I can't edit the original list). If there is anything I am overlooking/missing, please inform me of it with your reasoning (to help me learn and understand).

Processor: Intel Core i7-2600K Sandy Bridge 3.4GHz (3.8GHz Turbo Boost) LGA 1155 95W Quad-Core Desktop Processor BX80623I72600K

RAM: CORSAIR XMS 8GB (2 x 4GB) 240-Pin DDR3 SDRAM DDR3 1600 (PC3 12800) Desktop Memory Model CMX8GX3M2A1600C9 and CORSAIR XMS 4GB 240-Pin DDR3 SDRAM DDR3 1600 Desktop Memory Model CMX4GX3M1A1600C9 (if going 12gb route)

Graphics Card: single (1)Nvidia’s Geforce GTX 580

Motherboard: ASUS P8P67 EVO LGA 1155 Intel P67 SATA 6Gb/s USB 3.0 ATX Intel Motherboard

Power Supply: Corsair AX-850

Cooling: CORSAIR Hydro H70 CWCH70 120mm High Performance CPU Cooler

Sound: Soundblaster X-Fi HD Titanium

Hard Drives: Western Digital Caviar Black WD2002FAEX 2TB 7200 RPM SATA 6.0Gb/s 3.5" Internal Hard Drive -Bare x2 (System Drive/Storage Drive [C:/D:])

Optical Drives: LITE-ON Blu-ray Burner with 3D Playback SATA iHBS212 LightScribe
and/& ASUS 24X DVD Burner - Bulk Black SATA Model DRW-24B1ST/BLK/B/AS

Memory Card Reader: SABRENT CRW-UINB 68-in-1 USB 2.0 Internal Card Reader w/ USB 2.0 Port supports SDHC/VISTA OR suggested: Nippon Labs ICR-BB All-in-one USB +eSATA Card Reader

Casing: COOLER MASTER RC-692-KKN3 CM690 II Basic Black Steel ATX Mid Tower Computer Case OR Antec Nine Hundred Black Computer Case With Side Panel Window OR LIAN LI PC-P50WB Black Computer Case With Side Panel Window OR Thermaltake V9 BlacX Edition with Docking Station (NewEgg Exclusive) SECC / Mesh ATX Mid Tower Computer Case

Operating System: Microsoft Windows 7 Professional 64-bit

Monitor: LG 22LC2D-UB (already have/purchased)

[glc]

Also, glc, I'm wondering as to why the motherboard you suggested wasn't the higher end P8P67 Deluxe or Evolution one?

Let's go back to my first post:

I am going to go for maximum value, not bleeding edge technology.

I actually would have recommended the P8P67 Pro, but it was out of stock at the time. However, I am VERY intrigued by this board:

Newegg.com - ASUS SABERTOOTH P67 LGA 1155 Intel P67 SATA 6Gb/s USB 3.0 ATX Intel Motherboard

Now, my comments on the rest of the system.

I would only get one 640 drive. If you need more storage, get a larger drive for that, such as the 2tb that I recommended. Your OS and data drives do NOT need to be the same size. I would build initially without the sound card and aftermarket cooler. Those are things that can be added at ANY time.

[jdeb]

Originally Posted by glc Let's go back to my first post: I actually would have recommended the P8P67 Pro, but it was out of stock at the time. However, I am VERY intrigued by this board: Newegg.com - ASUS SABERTOOTH P67 LGA 1155 Intel P67 SATA 6Gb/s USB 3.0 ATX Intel Motherboard Now, my comments on the rest of the system. I would only get one 640 drive. If you need more storage, get a larger drive for that, such as the 2tb that I recommended. Your OS and data drives do NOT need to be the same size. I would build initially without the sound card and aftermarket cooler. Those are things that can be added at ANY time.

Excellent board, the Sabertooth's are the only boards I am using for high end builds. They are stable (DIGI+VRM), fast, and eliminate (in my opinion) the useless features that you pay extra for. You get a high end board for about 50.00 less than everything else out there. The tactical vest is very efficient and not just for looks, combined with the thermal detection system (9 sensors) and fan control software, keeps things chilly. Very nice feature.

[birddog_61]

Originally Posted by simplepinoi177 Thanks birddog. You guys have given me a lot to consider in terms of PC Cases. It looks like your case is pretty cool, with it being very well ventilated and tool free and the hot swap docks. I don't really know anything about material though, so I don't know if it being a "mesh" material or being a full aluminum material makes it better or worse.

Just so you know SECC stands for Steel Electrically Chromate Coated. It is a steel case, they use SECC in some high end roofing materials because it will not rust. If you buy a good quality case it won't matter much if its aluminum or SECC, steel seems to pick up vibrations less while aluminum is lighter. However with the use of mesh in the V9 it comes out at 15.1lbs and the antec nine hundred is 18.5lbs, so really not much difference. With the case brands you are considering there really isn't a bad choice.

Edit
Also unless your going to need the RCA output on the sound card then there really isn't much need for it. The on board audio of most modern motherboards is exceptional quality.

[glc]

Audio features on the Sabertooth:

Realtek® ALC892 8-Channel High Definition Audio CODEC
- Absolute Pitch 192khz/24bit True BD Lossless Sound
- BD Audio Layer Content Protection
- Supports Jack-Detection, Multi-streaming, and Front Panel Jack-Retasking
- Optical S/PDIF out port at back I/O

[simplepinoi177]

Originally Posted by glc Let's go back to my first post: I actually would have recommended the P8P67 Pro, but it was out of stock at the time. However, I am VERY intrigued by this board: Newegg.com - ASUS SABERTOOTH P67 LGA 1155 Intel P67 SATA 6Gb/s USB 3.0 ATX Intel Motherboard Now, my comments on the rest of the system. I would only get one 640 drive. If you need more storage, get a larger drive for that, such as the 2tb that I recommended. Your OS and data drives do NOT need to be the same size. I would build initially without the sound card and aftermarket cooler. Those are things that can be added at ANY time.

Ah, that's why. I do remember you saying that you were going for maximum value without going "bleeding edge."
Also, I checked out the sabertooth mobo. It seems packed with features and is at a better value (supposedly from what I read), but it is rather new. I read on some threads to see how it works out after a year...

In terms of your comments on the rest of your system, my entry for the hard drive was a typo/wrong url/title. Also, I am reconsidering the aftermarket cooler. With as much as I am spending on a really good case with plenty of fans and ventilation as well as the fan from the PSU, I wonder if I really have need for an aftermarket cooler if I won't be overclocking it in the near future. And if I do overclock the p67 as well as graphics in the future, then I believe I would want to go the route of liquid cooling anyways...

Originally Posted by birddog_61 Just so you know SECC stands for Steel Electrically Chromate Coated. It is a steel case, they use SECC in some high end roofing materials because it will not rust. If you buy a good quality case it won't matter much if its aluminum or SECC, steel seems to pick up vibrations less while aluminum is lighter. However with the use of mesh in the V9 it comes out at 15.1lbs and the antec nine hundred is 18.5lbs, so really not much difference. With the case brands you are considering there really isn't a bad choice. Edit Also unless your going to need the RCA output on the sound card then there really isn't much need for it. The on board audio of most modern motherboards is exceptional quality.

Thank you for clearing this up for me. I believe I understand now. I think I'm gonna try and go with the steel then to help lessen the vibrations because, it would seem, that the setup planned has a lot of fans which might make it a bit loud and noisy.

About the sound card, I understand and believe what you all are saying. It does look like the stock sound should be more than good enough, but the person I am sharing this computer with is insisting on a aftermarket great sound card. Also, he is a real fan of SoundBlaster as well. So, why not.

[Nuclear Krusader]

Originally Posted by simplepinoi177 Ah, that's why. I do remember you saying that you were going for maximum value without going "bleeding edge." Also, I checked out the sabertooth mobo. It seems packed with features and is at a better value (supposedly from what I read), but it is rather new. I read on some threads to see how it works out after a year... In terms of your comments on the rest of your system, my entry for the hard drive was a typo/wrong url/title. Also, I am reconsidering the aftermarket cooler. With as much as I am spending on a really good case with plenty of fans and ventilation as well as the fan from the PSU, I wonder if I really have need for an aftermarket cooler if I won't be overclocking it in the near future. And if I do overclock the p67 as well as graphics in the future, then I believe I would want to go the route of liquid cooling anyways... About the sound card, I understand and believe what you all are saying. It does look like the stock sound should be more than good enough, but the person I am sharing this computer with is insisting on a aftermarket great sound card. Also, he is a real fan of SoundBlaster as well. So, why not.

What's wrong with it being new? Aren't you building a "new" computer?

No, you don't need an aftermarket cooler; boxed processors already come with their own HSF which is good enough. So save your money there.

As much as I despise onboard sound, Creative Labs has left much to be desired for the last few years. I'd stick with the onboard and try it first.

[simplepinoi177]

...I don't have anything against it being really new, it's just what I heard/read from people a lot more experienced and knowledgeable than me were saying...I believe the P8P67 is a bit more established than the SABERTOOTH, right? Again, I apologize for my ignorance as all I can do is listen and consider coments of those who are more knowledgeable than me (although keeping in mind that there are those knowledgeable people who can be biased or have very personal views that may not be as objective as could be).

I hear that a lot about what you say about the aftermarket cooling (a cooling system not needed, extra big fans not needed, etc.) I guess I'm interested in keeping it only for the "what if's." Although not immediately, I do plan on overclocking. Also, I rather install it now with everything else being installed than to go through the trouble some time later. And although unneccessary, it couldn't hurt to keep the PC as cool as possible (in terms of liquid cooling, there may be downsides in it as it would cause condensation and shorts [from what i've read]).

I hear you though about the sound card. Creative Labs has been pretty terrible last few years (apparently like the 2TB Seagates [seagate used to be really reliable brand few years back, not anymore]). The current computer was updated with a Soundblaster X-Fi Platinum about 5 years back and it's pretty terrible. Really bad experiences with that one. And, from what i've read, onboard sound comes in HD, multiple channels, and really well enough stock. But I think we'll keep it "on hand" just in case...

Thank you for your comments and insight Nuclear Krusader.