I've been reading lots of other posts here and I think I've worked out a final list of parts I'm going to buy for my new machine. Thanks for all the great advice you've given others, it has been a big help. Please take a look and let me know if I'm missing anything obvious. It has been a number of years since I build my last system!
APPROXIMATE PURCHASE DATE: Tomorrow
BUDGET RANGE: < $3000
SYSTEM USAGE FROM MOST TO LEAST IMPORTANT: Gaming, gaming, gaming
PARTS NOT REQUIRED: Keyboard, mouse, speakers
PREFERRED WEBSITE(S) FOR PARTS: Newegg only
PARTS PREFERENCES: Intel proc, don't care otherwise
OVERCLOCKING: Yes
SLI OR CROSSFIRE: Either one
MONITOR RESOLUTION: dunno
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS: I think I'm done except for monitor(s), I really don't have a clue what I'm looking for since I'm still using a 19-inch CRT. The return policy on monitors puts me off so I might buy it at a local store so I can bring it back more easily if there is a problem
I know that the Noctua doesn't have room for both optional fans with the EVGA mobo...think that is a big enough deal to warrant another unit instead? It still seemed to have great reviews and I have been impressed by everything I've heard about Noctua. I wasn't too impressed by the looks of the Dark Knight.
I still need an optical drive (DVD not Blu-Ray) and monitor, anyone have good recommendations? Beyond that I'd really like to hear ideas/better options/etc. Thanks a lot!
There's a nice combo deal with that case and PSU, I think that's why you chose it, but just an FYI.
Also, I'd recommend either changing the motherboard to an Asus P6T Deluxe V2, or change the heatsink to a Xigmatek Dark Knight if you want the best performance and you have to get rid of one of the items.
Everything else looks fine, but just in case, try and get the i7 @ Antares Digital, that way you can guarantee an i7 920 D0.
DVD drive- LG is fine, just never spend too much. 22x is plenty:
I like HP monitors for some reason, no light bleeding, no dead pixels, excellent clarity and a nice menu. If you don't like it, LG makes nice monitors, also HP makes a 24'' of the same model, I'd recommend that for SLI GTX 275s.