config for a VFX workstation

dimebag11

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Apr 24, 2014
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I am trying to put together a brand new system for digital work . Will be using softwares such as maya , Zbrush , photoshop , mari , houdini etc. No gaming whatsoever. This is the config I have so far.

intel core i7-4930k 3.4ghz 6 core processor
enermax ets t40-bk 76.0 cfm cpu cooler
MSI big bang - xpower 2 XL ATX lga2011 motherboard
g.skill ripjaws Z series 32gb (4x8) ddr3-1600 memory
western digital black series 2tb 3.5" 7200rpm intern hard drive
MSI geforce gtx 780 3gb twin frozr video card
NZXT switch 810 (black) ATX Full tower case
cooler master v1000 1000W 80+ gold certified fully modular atx power supply
bitfenix spectre pro 140mm fan
bitfenix recon black fan controller

If you could suggest any improvements to it , it would be great. Budget is 2000-3000$.

What I am considering is whether to replace the i7 with a xeon e5-1650 v2. Alternative configurations that offer better bang for buck would also be great. Would like it to be moderately future proofed.

Thanks.
 
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dimebag11

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Apr 24, 2014
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Thank you. This is my first build that I have put together by just seeing reviews. Its not finalized yet and I actually have considered adding a 128gb SSD.

Regarding the ram I was wondering if I should stick to 16gb for now and then upgrade to 32 or 64 in the hopes that prices might drop. But I might be wrong about that so I just went midway and settled for 32.

Also from what I have been reading about RAM theres not too much difference between a 1600 vs 2400. I don't think I want to overclock since I have heard it does not have an overwhelming benefit and causes some issues as well(heating maybe?)

Other alternatives I'm wondering about are if the asus rampage is better that the big bang??.

The xeon e5-1650 v2 costs 583$ and has 6 cores. It is pretty much identical to the i7 but I read its better for rendering. Just wanted to hear some more opinions on that as well.