1kish budget-first build-spec check/advice

[DM_Dan]

Here is everything thats going to be in my next computer, im mainly using it for gaming. if theres anything that shouldnt be there or something that should change please tell me:

Gigabyte GA-965G-DS3 Socket T (LGA 775)

Corsair XMS2 2GB

Intel Core 2 Duo E6400 Conroe 2.13GHz

Radeon X1950XT 256MB 256-bit (PCI-e x16)

Western Digital Caviar 160GB 7200 RPM

Rosewill 550W PSU

NZXT Eite Black/Mid tower, ATX

 

[apt403]

beside the uber crappy psu the system looks fine. get something like this instead, that way, you wont have worry about your psu frying itself and the rest of your system in the process.

 

[DM_Dan]

yea I decided on everything and then it hit me that I didnt pick out a PSU hahaha so I didnt really take much time picking that one out

 

[mikeny]

Here is everything thats going to be in my next computer, im mainly using it for gaming. if theres anything that shouldnt be there or something that should change please tell me:

Gigabyte GA-965G-DS3 Socket T (LGA 775)

Corsair XMS2 2GB

Intel Core 2 Duo E6400 Conroe 2.13GHz

Radeon X1950XT 256MB 256-bit (PCI-e x16)

Western Digital Caviar 160GB 7200 RPM

Rosewill 550W PSU

NZXT Eite Black/Mid tower, ATX

I would replace the PSU. Go with a thermaltake PurePower 500w PSU. I have it in my first build. I bought it at Microcenter for $75, you could get it cheaper online. Mine is also strictly for gaming. You also might want to up the hard drive. Many games are space hungry. I bought x2 250GB SATAII's for $60 each online. You also might want to change the case. I believe I heard not so good things about that case. If you have money to burn go for a aluminum case, if not go to a computer store and check the cases out...look for one with ample space inside (full atx case) or mid atx case and one with no sharp edges inside and enough space for the mobo.

 

[ProSlayer]

The 965G series has an onboard video, which really kills overclocking. I recommend going with 965P-S3 or DS3.

 

[skyguy]

I concur.

And just out of curiosity, is the 1950XT needed at this point? Could you get a 7600GT or an ATI equivalent, save a bit longer and get a DX10 card when prices drop?

 

[DM_Dan]

I see what you mean but im doing this so I dont have to upgrade for a long time, I'd rather get a DX10 card now than getting DX9 and then waiting.

Changed the PSU as well.

EDIT-cant decide on a different mobo...what would be best for OC'ing at a reasonable price?

 

[skyguy]

Maybe I'm missing something, but the 1950XT isn't a DX10 card.......right now there are only 2 on the market: 8800GTS and 8800GTX. I'm assuming you're getting one of those now?

As for affordable OC'ing mobo, can't go wrong with the Gigabyte S3, it'll let you hit 3.0 ghz no problem with an E6300 and that Corsair, at less than stock vCore

There are some ASUS boards that are recommended as well. Check out the TH mobo shootout article, some good stuff there for recommendations.

 

[DM_Dan]

Ahhh yes your right I must have read that somewhere that is was DX10, in that case ill go down to a lower graphics card.


and thanks for the information about the mobo and psu

 

[yas]

Yes make sure you do get a DX10 card if you can afford it. Get the 8800GTS which is around $450.