Need help with first pc build

0mg_1ts_m3

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Sep 29, 2008
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so far i'm looking at this:

cpu: http://www.tigerdirect.com/applications/SearchTools/item-details.asp?EdpNo=3856076&CatId=2396
mobo: http://www.tigerdirect.com/applications/SearchTools/item-details.asp?EdpNo=3839553&CatId=2541
ram: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820227124
hdd: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16822136218
psu: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817139005
gpu: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814130401
case: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814130401
dvd drive: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16827151171

i do not want to change the cpu, hdd, gpu, or case. however, if you guys have any ideas on moobos, ram, psu, etc that will not bump up the cost very much, i'd like to hear some suggestions.
i have a couple questions too:
-will i be able to fit 2 8800GTS's in this case and mobo?
-will this rig be able to handle most of the newer games out now on high or medium settings at 1680x1050?
 

lucuis

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Apr 21, 2008
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I'm not sure if you intend to OC, but since you didn't list an aftermarket cooler, i'm going to assume not.

CPU: Assuming your not overclocking you can get an e8400 for about 50 bucks more then the one you listed. r8400 runs at 3.0ghz. http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819115037
Mobo: Unless you're absolutely sure you're gonna SLI two videocards get an intel chipset mobo, ASUS/Gigabyte p35 board instead. http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813131333
Ram: +1 to the Mushkin RAM shortstuff_mt linked. http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820146731
hdd: A good storage drive, but slower then ave read/write speeds. Newegg.com and tigerdirect.com don't have it listed, but see if you can find a WD Caviar Black 500gb version. It should be under 100 bucks.
PSU: Good choice :)
Case: Inexpensive, good looking case. Although, if memory serves me right, it has some sharp edges inside so be careful.
dvd drive: Drive is good, but like shortstuff_mt said if you want lightscribe you can get it for another dollar.

The changes overall will add a few bucks to the build, but it's a fair bit of performance for cheap.

So;
cpu = +50
ram = +30
hd = ~+20

Things to consider.

The cpu is ~500mhz faster and larger cache then the one you picked. And for gaming it'll make a noticeable difference.

If you're using xp 2gb "should" be fine, but with vista no less then ~3gb or things get choppy. This could be the most important upgrade to your list if running vista, next would be the processor.

The faster hardrive will only effect loading times, and if the seek time is faster then the wd 640gb it'll be a little snappier just mucking around in the os. If your a patient person this kind of upgrade is not really worth the extra cache.

Anways, just my input. Ultimately the decision is up to you :)