xiaokaka

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Sep 27, 2011
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Hi guys,

Planning to upgrade to I5 2500k..
http://ark.intel.com/products/52210

mobo:
(Prices of mobo comes with CPU)

http://www.msi.com/product/mb/Z68A-GD55--G3-.html#/?div=News ($520)

or

http://www.msi.com/product/mb/Z68A-GD65--G3-.html#/?div= ($570)

or

http://www.msi.com/product/mb/Z68A-GD80--G3-.html#/?div=Awards ($630)


CPU cooler would be a CoolerMaster V6GT
http://www.coolermaster.com/product.php?product_id=6668 ($95)


Would like to OC cpu to 4ghz - 4.8ghz the most.



Any thoughts on parts and recommendations??

Locatation in Singapore so not all brands and products are available.

 
The third board has two sata III controllers if I read it right. Otherwise, any of those boards will work fine. I'm getting ready to rma my ssd for the third time. I recommend you install the files only once on any ssd. Repeated installs or cloning can wear them out. I speak from experience. And ocz is so bad about rebates and warranties that they make you choose. Send in the rebate and they won't honor their warranty, as it requires the serial number label off the back.
 
A couple things....

1. Are you planning on using a dedicated GPU? If so I would suggest the P67 chipset instead of the Z68, as you will save some money there. The Z68 has onboard graphics, which is the big difference between the 2 chipsets.

2. Careful with the V6GT. It is HUGE!! I will cover the first couple RAM DIMMS on pretty much any MB, so make sure to get RAM that is short enough to fit underneath, or don't plan on using those slots.

2.5 Also, I would suggest using the second installation type when reading the instructions, as the first one (that uses the spring clip) is not super sturdy.

3. Although MSI has gotten better of the years, issues with their boards a few years back (I know, I know.....) makes me leery of their current products. I personally would look for a Gigabyte board. More specifically a Gigabyte P67 board if you are using a GPU instead of onboard graphics.
 

casualbuilder

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Gigabyte makes a GEN 3 Mobo for $145 i think i saw on Newegg.com, and is all you would need. A good HSF would be the Hyper 212+ EVO, a little smaller, and capable of hitting the 4.5GHz mark i believe with the i5.

IF newegg.com delivers there, you can probably get this package for roughly $375 + shipping.
 

xiaokaka

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Sep 27, 2011
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The warrenty works a little different in Singapore. Only tru authorized dealers then we can do RMAs(the last time i checked).

Thanks for the tip on V6GT. I'm using kingston hyperX 1600mhz 4x2gb. all stuff will get from the same shop so i can check for compatibility and ask for a better deal.

I like Gigabyte, but over here, once u need to RMA it, the Distributers send it to taiwan and it takes roughly 2 months.


Thats the deal breaker there.


Onboard graphics might prove to be useful in case if delicated GPU stops working, at least u get to boot still?

Price difference aren't that different.


z68a-80 G3 cost $660 where p67-80 (NON GEN ) cost $640
 

xiaokaka

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Sep 27, 2011
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18,510
The warrenty works a little different in Singapore. Only tru authorized dealers then we can do RMAs(the last time i checked).

Thanks for the tip on V6GT. I'm using kingston hyperX 1600mhz 4x2gb. all stuff will get from the same shop so i can check for compatibility and ask for a better deal.

I like Gigabyte, but over here, once u need to RMA it, the Distributers send it to taiwan and it takes roughly 2 months.


Thats the deal breaker there.


Onboard graphics might prove to be useful in case if delicated GPU stops working, at least u get to boot still?

Price difference aren't that different.


z68a-80 G3 cost $660 where p67-80 (NON GEN ) cost $640
 

gnomio

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Jul 6, 2011
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If your only going to have 1 gpu then heres a nice board

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813138319&nm_mc=AFC-C8Junction&cm_mmc=AFC-C8Junction-_-na-_-na-_-na&AID=10440897&PID=3067296&SID=
 

xiaokaka

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Sep 27, 2011
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Corsair Hydro Series H60 for CPU cooler.. thoughts?

@Gnomio - well, seen your link. but i feel that the picture of the few listed msi boards seems to look like higher end built?