Do i need a better CPU or more Ram for 3D modelling?

Josh6517

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I have an 8120 - Eight Core AMD FX Processor that runs at 3.10 GHz with 8GB's of ram. I recently started doing high res 3D modelling with constant divides. However it runs slow and my max divides is 5 or 6. My CPU runs around 100% on demanding activities like dividing and what not. Wondering if i would need to get a better processor or more ram in order to get better divide levels?
- my compact memory is at max
 
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Given your current set up, yes the CPU is the problem there. It is unfortunately a rather poorly performing FX, when compared to the Intel offerings.

For your work load an i7 or Xeon would speed you up considerably, and perform much better in games too. In terms of buying a Xeon, if it is an E3 v3, then look up the i7 model with the same clock rate and you'll be looking at almost identical chips, at least for your usage.

Considering your RAM usage, since you seem to be bottlenecked by the CPU, it may go up slightly with a new chip. I would consider grabbing a combo deal if you can, something with an i7, mobo and 16gb of RAM or such. Combo deals revolving around the Xeons can be harder to find, however if you do not mind building...

Josh6517

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The ram usage is about 5.5 approx when using ZBrush.
The mother board is only a year old, the processor is about two years old.
 
Then it is actually not utilising the whole usage of the RAM, it is most likely your CPU. I recommend getting an i7 with a motherboard (most likely you will need to change due to socket incompatible).

I recommend i7 as it is design for this kind of field (editing, rendering and modelling). It has hyper threading.

What's your current motherboard?
Do you have a budget for the upgrade for both CPU and motherboard?
 

Josh6517

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The motherboard is a GA-990FXA-D3,

Would the i7 limit my gameplay?, considering i also use the computer for alot of gaming.

I haven't got a budget as of yet
 

Josh6517

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The graphics card is a GTX-760,

so in other words, if i wish to get a CPU that matches the gaming and also supports high end 3D modelling im going to need to spend a bit on the intel i7 and a new motherboard?
 

Josh6517

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What would be the Xeon equivalent to my processor in terms of performance in games?
 

clownwolf

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I have no idea how demanding 3D modeling is, but I think it probably requires a lot of gpu power. I think that's why professional video cards like the FirePro7900 are worth $600.
 

Josh6517

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okay would the Gigabyte Z97-D3H motherboard be a good substitute to go with the Xeon 1230 v3?

I do not tend to overclock so that shouldn't be a problem.
 

Montblanchill

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Given your current set up, yes the CPU is the problem there. It is unfortunately a rather poorly performing FX, when compared to the Intel offerings.

For your work load an i7 or Xeon would speed you up considerably, and perform much better in games too. In terms of buying a Xeon, if it is an E3 v3, then look up the i7 model with the same clock rate and you'll be looking at almost identical chips, at least for your usage.

Considering your RAM usage, since you seem to be bottlenecked by the CPU, it may go up slightly with a new chip. I would consider grabbing a combo deal if you can, something with an i7, mobo and 16gb of RAM or such. Combo deals revolving around the Xeons can be harder to find, however if you do not mind building it yourself, you're essentially getting an i7 without the onboard graphics, and at a lower price.

Also, if you do go for a Xeon, you will not be overclocking - so factor this into your motherboard requirements and save yourself a bit of cash. Perhaps put that towards 16gb of RAM or such.
 
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