AGP not getting it done

[lokifalcon]

I have an ATI Raedon 9550 apg video card and it is not keeping up with PC games demand. Would I be better off getting something like top of line apg like geforce 7800gs, I think that is the number. Or would I be better off bitting the bullet and get new MB and PCIE video card. If so will my AMD Athlon 64 3500 be good enough or am I looking at all new PC? thanks
Asus A8n deluxe MB socket 939
AMD Athlon 64 3500
Maxtor 160g HD
Ultra mem 2g

[Alaron]

The 9550 is too underpowered for todays games. The 7800GS is a great choice, and the X1950Pro is coming out soon, which should be an even better choice. The rest of your system should be fine for games. The video card makes the major difference, not the CPU. So I would hold off on an upgrade until you can go for a full system.

[lokifalcon]

Which X1950Pro? What brand? I saw some under that listing, ATI and Diamond. But I take it they are not the one you are refering too. I assume that it is pcie. The 7800gs is a bit pricey to stay with apg technology. I would like to compare the two when it comes out, or is the ATI and Diamond basicaly the same?
Thanks

[Panama Red]

You didn't mention the size and brand of power supply you're using. Best to check the specs on the vid card you intend to buy and see what the minimum recommended psu is. Then make sure yours is a quality brand. Hate to see ya toast a nice system like that with a simple vid card overload.

[Alaron]

All of ATI's manufacturers are pretty good, but I'd stick with ATI. The X1950Pro AGP is coming out sometime soon, and it will be a better performer then the 7800GS, but its up to you to wait.

[The_YongGrand]

The AGP versions of 7600GS, 7600GT and 7800GT are also there - but they are a little bit more expensive.

The ATi ones are the x1300 and the x1600 for the AGP ones only. The x1950Pro are going to be released. You can make a choice here based on your budget.

edit: and make sure you get a good Power Supply Unit first before attempting to change a video card.