Best GPU for my rig

[hammond]

What do you guys recommend I get for the following rig? Here's the specs:
AMD Phenom X3 8400 / 2.1 GHz
* Multi-Core processor technology Triple-Core 64-bit processor

Cache Memory

* Type L3 cache
* Installed Size 2 MB
* Cache Per Processor 2 MB
Video Card

*BFG 8800GT OC+ (at the moment)


RAM

* Installed Size 4 Gigs
* Technology DDR2 SDRAM
* Memory speed 667 MHz
* Memory specification compliance PC2-5300
POWER SUPPLY

* 700 Watt
HARD Drive

* # 1 x 320 GB - Standard - Serial ATA-300 - 7200 rpm




I tried a BFG 9800GTX OC+ as well but it did not perform as good as the 8800GT but it did run about 20 degrees cooler. Should I go with an ATI since my motherboard is a phenom? Also, what ATI is on par with the 8800 GT OC? I would prefer something that runs a bit cooler if possible.

 

[salabarria]

get the 4870 1gb

 

[hammond]

Looking to spend under 150.00 US moneys =D

 

[geofelt]

Depending on the type and amount of ram on the 8800GT, a 9800GTX may not be that much faster. Also, your cpu may not be capable of driving a high end card to it's capacity.

For a significant jump in performance, you should be looking at a video card like the GTX260-216 or the 4870-1gb.
If your motherboard is sli capable, a second 8800GT would do the job also.

To drive that card, you should be looking at a cpu clocked at 3.0 or higher.

ATI or Nvidia should make no difference as it relates to the cpu. Only if you are considering multiple vga cards does the chipset(ati/intel) make a difference.

 

[hammond]

I am not looking into going "high-end". I am just looking for the best GPU mate for my current computer based on the specs listed.

 

[geofelt]

I am not looking into going "high-end". I am just looking for the best GPU mate for my current computer based on the specs listed.

If you already own the 8800GT, then I don't think that you can find a card for $150 that is 10% faster.
If you are looking for a good $150 card, then there are two choices:
EVGA 9800GTX+ superclocked:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814130420
HIS 4850:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814161244

 

[hammond]

Correction my PSU is 600 watts (OCZ)