Value AMD Computer

[kingd3112]

Hi all,
I currently want to build a new computer that offers power but not at an expensive price. I have built Intel computers, but not AMD so any information you may have will be helpful.

Computer Abilities:
Gaming, 3D Modeling & Graphic Design
I do not need the ultimate computer just one that can process efficiently for these areas. I would like to keep the ability to upgraded in the future when needed.

Budget:
Like to keep it under $600


CPU:
I want value so not necessary the current best, but I would like to maintain the option of upgrading in the future and that is why I want to stick with AMD.

Here is my thought: AMD Phenom II X2 550 Callisto 3.1GHz
Link: http://www.newegg.com/Produc/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819103847

Motherboard:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813131392
A little expensive but will help for future upgrades


Computer Case:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16811119068

These are the products that I have taken a look at, but since I haven't built a computer in a while I am not sure what is ideal for RAM, Graphics Card, or Power supply. I have extra sata hard drives and optical drives lying around so i dont need those.

That all being said, I would appreciate any advice you may have. Thanks!

 

[Hereisphilly]

This is a nice setup, and you get quadcore for not much extra

CPU AMD Athlon II X4 630 Propus 2.8GHz - $89.99
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819103704

MOBO A way cheaper board with all the features
ASRock 870 EXTREME3 - $94.99
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813157198

CASE Antec Three Hundred - $54.95 ($39.95 after mail in rebate)
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16811129042

RAM Crucial Ballistix 4GB (2 x 2GB) - $109.99
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820148323

PSU Antec BP550 Plus 550W - $69.99
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817371016

GPU ASUS Ati Radeon HD 5770 1GB - $157.99 ($137.99 after Mail-In Rebate)
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814121363

Total after rebates = $542.90

This will get you a system thats pretty good with scope to upgrade when you need it

 

[kingd3112]

Hey hereisphilly,
Thanks for the response, but i was wondering why you think the athlon x4 is better then the phenom x2 listed at this link:

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819103846

Not very familiar with AMD so just what to know what you know !!

Thanks again!

 

[Hereisphilly]

The Phenom II architecture is slightly superior, so the 555 would be better for applications that use up to 2 threads like most games, but the 630 has 4 cores which is better for multitasking on an everyday level, and for moddeling and graphic programs .
When going for a new build nowadays though, its best to get more than a dual core CPU, as programs are getting to use quad cores more efficiently.
Besides, you can overclock the 630 (with an aftermarket CPU cooler) to get the core speed up, if you find that its lacking, although generally the GPU will need replacing before a big quad core becomes a bottleneck