This will be my first PC build ever, gaming or otherwise. I'd like to go back and play some of the best-known FPS games from the last few years (Doom 3, Quake IV, etc.) and even some of the newer ones (Bioshock, etc.) but create a system under $800, under a grand if this budget doesn't fit my needs.
APPROXIMATE PURCHASE DATE: within the next week
PREFERRED BUDGET RANGE: $600-$800
SYSTEM USAGE FROM MOST TO LEAST IMPORTANT: gaming, watching movies, surfing the web
PARTS NOT REQUIRED: keyboard, mouse, monitor, speakers, OS, hard drive
PREFERRED WEBSITE(S) FOR PARTS: newegg.com PARTS PREFERENCES: AMD processor, ATI video card
OVERCLOCKING: maybe
SLI OR CROSSFIRE: not at the moment
MONITOR RESOLUTION: not sure, widescreen
[Sound card]
no idea about this, whether the onboard sound for AMD motherboards are typically adequate or not...
Socket AM3 build: $651
Socket AM2+ build: $573
How solid is this build? I have over $100 to spare with both builds, so a better video card would be good to invest in imo. I think I'm set on the processor (is X4 worth it right now with my budget concerns?) and the newer AM3 motherboard. However, as far as the power supply requirements, cooler options other than what I chose, voltage considerations, memory latencies, and whether the above setup is even compatible with every component, I need smarter minds to comment Suggestions on parts to swap in or out, such as a more expensive video card, different RAM, etc.? I would like to stay within the budget. Prices change so fast!
Message edited by Starshrieker on 06-25-2009 at 01:53:35 AM
I am no expert but have been putting together a list for a P2 940 build and it looks very similar!!
RE Sound - depends on what you need but the ddr2 Gigabyte board is ok for sounds but not amazing (according to research on the web) - you may need a sc but they are sooo cheap.
With regards to ddr2 vs ddr3, I think ddr3 will be a bit more 'future proof' but as regards to performance for gaming (vs costs) I would personally go with the ddr2.
All said and done I am new on here and will prob get FLAMED!!!
Good luck mate.
PJ
Oh and just one other thing... the Antec 900 looks an excellent case but you may want to consider the 902..with a few upgrades...
Message edited by pij on 06-25-2009 at 02:57:14 AM
Go with the AM3/DDR3 build. Get the power supply/case combo deal. Don't forget a SATA DVD burner (although newegg is having trouble stocking them right now). For bang/buck look at the HD4870 1GB http://www.newegg.com/Product/Prod [...] 6814102825
*edit* if crossfire with a 4870 may be in the future, go with the combo deal for the EA750 combo deal.
Message edited by dirtmountain on 06-25-2009 at 02:57:58 AM