After years of upgrading store-bought systems with new HDs, RAM, video cards, etc., I've finally decided to take the plunge on building my own from scratch, largely due to dropping prices on RAM, C2Duos, and HDs. Plus, I can pick my own components. If you can please offer any suggestions about my planned build, I would greatly appreciate it!
Total budget is approx $1,000
Already purchased:
Ultra Wizard ATX case (got free after rebate)
Corsair 520W PSU
Seagate 320GB SATAII 7200.10 HD
I plan to overclock the CPU moderately, but nothing bleeding edge. I'm more concerned with stability than with cutting edge performance. Thanks in advance for any suggestions or compatibility warnings you can give.
I just built a pc with that exact same cpu, mobo, and ram. I also have the seasonic m12 500w, which is pretty much the same psu as you. It's rock solid right now at stock.
I plan to do some moderate oc'ing soon when my new heatsink arrives next week.
As for the amount of video ram, what resolution will you be running at? I went with the 640mb gts, but only because I'm running at 1680x1050. The 640 would be beneficial at resolutions higher than that, 320 is fine at anything lower. 1600x1200 is the grey area.
If you can wait for the ATIs to arrive then wait and see, otherwise if you want the best you can afford you might as well get a 8800gts over the 8600, you can find a 320mb gts for around 250 after rebate.
