quick question

[nicknamealreadytaken]

I am looking to buy a new computer to do basic functions (word processor, etc.), multitask (music, virus scan, internet), and game at a reasonable level (mid to high range).

This is what I got so far...

Pentium D 820 2.8 Ghz
Geforce 7800 GTX
2 Gig RAM

Basically, I am wondering if I should upgrade the processor. Keep in mind, that I am not planning on completely pimping out my computer (I am a college student and do not have a lot of cash), but want the games to look and play well. My only concern is that my processor may be undermining my video card and RAM. Should I upgrade to 3.0 Ghz or will the dual processor combined with the video card and RAM balance everything out? Please help me, I really do not understand what makes games go faster (RAM or the processing speed).

 

[pip_seeker]

tell us what you intend to play. If you only play games on the discount rack you're probably plenty fast now.

 

[nicknamealreadytaken]

Nothing huge...FEAR, AoE3...I

Like I said, I am more interested in mid-to almost high range performance (college tuitopm is killing my wallet!!).

I just want to know if this works out and is not overkill on one aspect.

 

[timberwolf1]

If by 'reasonable level' of gaming you mean that you don't need to up the resolutions to the max, then I think 2.8 GHz is more than sufficient. But I'd go for an AMD chip though - it'll save you money.

 

[angry_ducky]

Nothing huge...FEAR, AoE3...I

Like I said, I am more interested in mid-to almost high range performance (college tuitopm is killing my wallet!!).

I just want to know if this works out and is not overkill on one aspect.

enough posts already! next time just post one!

 

[dwave]

He was asked a question and he answered it, does that mean that he should have edited his first post to answer? And talk about a worthless post, what did you just do? Log on to say enough posts already.

Back on topic, I would personally go with a little more power, but if you are not worried about running the games at to res. then that should be alright. The dual core should be nice for running the multimedia and what not.

 

[S7A88Y]

go for a AMD Athlon 64 3200+ (or the 3000+) and for fear than a X850 XT will save you money and perform well. What you had was over kill, now with the X850 XT you can use the AA feature.

 

[Rabidpeanut]

I've got a 3500+ an my virus scan is running in the background permanently and i never get perfromance drops, so i don't see why a dual would be neccesary. I do however use NOD32 so and it is not exactly a performance hog.