Looks like I need a new case, and don't know where to start.

[Lan]

Hey all. My current system is:

AMD 64 X2 4400+ (CPU)
4GB Corsair DDR-400 (RAM)
Gigabyte GA-K8N Pro SLI (MoBo)
2x eVGA 8800 GTS 320MB (Video in SLI)
Creative X-Fi Gamer Pro (Sound)
75GB Raptor (HD for OS and games)
500GB WD (HD for storage)

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Of the above, I plan on upgrading 3 items to the following hardware:

Intel Core i7 950 (CPU) - http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819115211
Corsair Dominator 6GB (3 x 2GB RAM) - http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820145224
eVGA E758-A1 3-Way SLI (MoBo) - http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813188039

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Now, originally I was going to leave it at that, since those 3 items are my current bottlenecks.

However, it has recently come to my attention that I probably should look at my case at the very least, and argueably, my power supply as well.

First off, the case is old. I bought it back in 2003 when I was stationed in Korea as active duty Air Force. It has seen 2 major hardware configurations over the years, and hasn't really failed me. It's a non name brand case with two 80mm intake fans in the front, one 92mm intake fan directly over my SLI configuration, and two 80mm exaust fans (horizontal, not a blow hole) above the expansion slots, right next to the CPU.

Secondly, is because I'm not entirely sure how well the new hardware will hold up in the case. My current CPU is idling at 40C (as I type this), and both GPU's are idling at 75C & 83C respectively (also as I type this), which isn't ground brakingly hot, but warmer than optimal if memory serves.

Thirdly is my Powersupply ( http://www.newegg.com/product/product.aspx?Item=N82E16817153042 ). That appears to be an old newegg link, but it still has the specifications, as I cannot find any info on Thermaltake's website. I'm reasonably sure my powersupply will be able to handle things, but there is always some measure of uncertanty when it comes to new hardware.

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Now that you know my situation, it looks like I'm in the market for a new case. I don't usually overclock, though there is a chance I might play around if the mood suits me.

I like having a window on the side, for aesthetic perposes, and mainly because I like it. However, if I was forced to choose between acceptable temps, and the window, I would probably choose acceptable temps.

I like avoiding blow holes out the top IF I can, but I'm beginning to come to terms that it is probably going to be the best venting configuration.

So to be blunt, I have not shoped for a case in a long time, and am in DIRE need of some help. I have ~$500 left to spend if I must, but I'd preffer to not go over $250 if I can.

Purchasing from newegg would be a major plus, but not requred. Thanks A LOT for reading all this, and thanks again for any and all suggestions.

 

[JohnnyLucky]

How about $100.00 for a new case? The Lian Li / Lancool Dragon Lord cases were introduced late last year. They come in a variety of configurations and prices:

http://www.lancoolpc.com/en/product/product04.php?cl_index=1&sc_index=25&ss_index=62

Mwave.com has the lowest prices in the USA:

http://www.mwave.com/mwave/deepsearch_v3.asp?scriteria=lancool&ALL=y&TP=

monstermawd, one of our regulars, did a video review of the K-60 model:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U2MdUGxWEcU

Technical reviews:

http://www.hardwarecanucks.com/forum/hardware-canucks-reviews/22076-lancool-dragonlord-pc-k62-case-review.html

http://benchmarkreviews.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=449&Itemid=61

 

[JackNaylorPE]

With your budget of $250, ya can get a top rated case and top notch PSU....I'd wait but if ya in a rush....this PSU gets 10.0 performance rating at jonnyguru.com and makes the Editor's Choice List at www.silentpcreview.com making a top notch electrical performer and extremely quiet PSU.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/ComboDealDetails.aspx?ItemList=Combo.335367
http://www.silentpcreview.com/Antec_CP-850
http://www.silentpcreview.com/article971-page7.html
http://www.jonnyguru.com/modules.php?name=NDReviews&op=Story4&reid=142

But if you are willing to wait ....the stuff shown at CES should be hitting store shelves before Intel releases hexacore on March 16.

http://www.futurelooks.com/ces-2010-whats-up-at-thermaltake/
http://www.futurelooks.com/ces-2010-antec-unveils-the-lanboy-air-and-the-most-important-product-of-ces/
http://www.thinkcomputers.org/ces-2010-antec/
http://www.thinkcomputers.org/ces-2010-cooler-master/

 

[Lan]

Is there an advantage to waiting for the CES stuff as opposed to the others?

Of what has been linked/shown so far, I kind of like Antec 1200 Case (still looking at PSU), and the Lancool PC-K62.

I suppose with either one I would need a PSU upgrade just because of the difference in fan size (not to mention the LED's).

 

[JohnnyLucky]

The Antec twelve Hundred is a classic tower design. It's one of those cases you buy and keep for a very long time. Ventilation, airflow, and cooling are excellent.

The only reason to possibly wait for the new cases is they may be equipped with the new USB 3.0 ports on the front panel. The problem is there are hardly any USB 3.0 devices to plug in. The few devices that do exist are very expensive. Prices will remain high for a while. You could add a USB 3.0 card later.

The general rule of thumb is a high quality 500 to 550 watt power supply with sufficient current (amps) on the +12 volt rail(s) can easily power a system with any single video card made. A high quality 700 to 750 watt power supply with sufficient current (amps) on the +12 volt rail(s) can power a system with two video cards operating in dual mode. There are a few exceptions like the new ATI Radeon HD 5XXX series cards which use less power due to their energy efficiency.

A high quality 500 to 550 watt psu will have a +12 volt rail rated at 40 amps. A high quality 700 to 750 watt psu will have a +12 volt rail rated at 60 amps.

In addition the power supply should be at least 80+ Bronze certified for energy efficiency. There are some models available which have achieved 80+ Silver and 80+ Gold Certifications.

Before purchasing a new psu you will need to decide whether you will eventually have a pc with one or two video cards.

Corsair and Seasonic are two of the brands that have a reputation for high quality power supplies that consistently earn high marks in technical reviews. They are reliable, stable, and come with a 5 year warranty. Some of the newer models come with a 7 year warranty. Lately we've been seeing a few other brands offering some high quality units.

 

[Lan]

Hmm....I'm strongly leaning toward the Antec Case/PSU that Jack recammended, though PLEASE keep all input comming. It's not over 'till the fat lady sings.

 

[Lan]

Best answer selected by Lan.