New Budget AMD Build

[m2736185]

Working my first new build in 7 years I am thinking of the following setup
Monitors: Dual Monitors Acer 17" & Envision 22" WS
Case: Undecided
CPU: X2 5000 Black Edition or X2 6000 ( I like the 1 mb cache or it wouldnt be a or and for only $30 more)
MB: GA-M59SLI-S5 or MSI K9A2 CF-F AM2+ ( really undecided on this one I really like the M59 but its not made anymore and its really hard to find except open box on New egg for $120 what a ripoff. The MSI seems like a decent REGULAR board...but it is AM2+ capable)
RAM:-
HD: WD360 Raptor 10,000 RPM 36GB Boot & system files
HD2: 72000 150 GB
CPU COoler:Rosewill RCX-Z940-LX 92mm Ball CPU Cooler
PS: Depends on CPU
Videocard: ATI Radeon HD 2400 PRO 256MB

Any thoughts? Trying to go for something that can do heavy duty multitasking, play video, music and perhaps light gaming (Starcraft 2)

 

[akhilles]

If Phenom is in your plan, there's no reason to go with AM2 mobos. AMD 7x0 chipsets are the way to go. There are better overclocks with 7x0 chipsets & AM2 cpus. The 9500 & 9600 are buggy right now. The 9700, 9900, 9550 & 9650 will be errata-free.

For that lowly video, a 400W is more than plenty. Corsair VX is a good start.

SC2 looks to be very GPU intensive, so that HD2400PRO won't cut it. Maybe at 640x480 if it's supported. I would suggest HD3850 at the minimum. You never know you might start playing games more & more if you have a good gaming pc.

 

[zenmaster]

You definitely need more of a GPU.
Look at the monthly "Best GPU" for Under $100 listings.

That should give you an idea of some "ok" very entry level gaming cards.

 

[m2736185]

Any ideas? Im trying to stay under $500

 

[Onus]

Under $500? I assume that does not include the monitors! Scrap the Raptor, and the aftermarket CPU cooler. Use a low-end CoolerMaster case; their Elite models have plenty of room and cooling.
Don't buy a cheap PSU though; choose one from tier-3 or better from the list at http://www.tomswiki.com/page/Tiered+PSU+Listings?t=anon.
FSP makes some decent ones in the 450W-500W range that aren't too expensive.
For light gaming, something in the HD2600 family should suffice.

 

[m2736185]

Yes I already have the monitors...btw will there be a problem with the dual monitors because they are different sizes? I have heard about problems with dual monitors because of ratio conflicts. I am also open to Intel suggestions as I have heard nothing but good things about their Duo Core Cpus