Help on new computer build

[saschan]

Zotac GTX 295
Intel Core 2 Duo 8500
Thermaltake 750 W
WD 640 GB 7200 rpm

Im going to use it to play games, watch movies, work. No quad core applications.

can someone advise me on a double channel ram + mobo?

budget is not an issue but preferably < 250 dollars for each seperate part

 

[huron]

I'd say you'd be just fine with DDR2 800 - get 2x2GB at the standard 1.8v with good timings if you can. You ought to be able to find a kit for $50 or so, maybe less.

I would suggest either a Gigabyte or Asus P45 board. You're talking maybe $150, probably less.

Another suggestion - get a better PSU - try something from PC Power and Cooling, Corsair, or Antec. I wouldn't get a Thermaltake myself.

Good luck.

Here's a solid Gigabyte P45: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813128358

On the Asus side, the P5Q pro is a good choice as well.

That should keep you well under $250

 

[l4d]

You could buy faster 1066 ddr2 but not low latency 5-5-5-15. I was told Intel does not use tight timings like AMD.
I am sure Intel is able to use tight timings but it will matter less than the amount and clock speed.
This is where tight tmings would not matter: http://www.houseofhelp.com/forums/showthread.php?s=d75cb100c888cfc3275f25325d4b7c55&t=74146&page=4

 

[huron]

Even if you OC that E8500 to FSB of 400 to have a 1:1 ratio with your RAM (DDR2 800), you would get that processor up to 3.8ghz - no need for the DDR2 1066.

Just get quality DDR2 800 RAM at or near the standard 1.8v with good timings.

If you want to OC that CPU even further, you can OC the RAM as well.

 

[foolycooly]

along the lines of the PSU, newegg is still running a killer deal on this one -

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817341011

or if you don't like the red -

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817139006