Graphics card for hand built PC.

[Bluejayke]

Hey there everyone, I am a newcomer to this site and I was hoping if you could spare some advice for for a guy building a PC for the first time. I want to make a PC for animation programs such as Flash/Toon Boom Studio and some gaming on the side. I don't want to build a super-computer, I just want something that can get the job done and do it well.

I thought about using AMD parts considering that they tend to be cheaper than the competition. I'm thinking of getting an AMD FX 4100 3.6 ghz. quadcore processor, it fits the bill pretty nicely and it sells for pretty cheap.
What I really need help with is the Graphics card, I was thinking of the Radeon 7000 series, like a 7750, or maybe a 7870. The 7750 can be found on newegg.com for around $99.00 while the 7870 is about $280.00

The lower price is the more tempting one, but are the more advanced cards worth it?
What are your experiences with AMD parts?
Is their anything else I left out, or should consider besides operating system, RAM, etc.?

I am new to this whole thing so any and all advice is welcome. Thanks to all in advance.

 

[refillable]

I will recommend the Phenom II series, rather than getting the FX-4100 .

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819103727

Best AMD value processor for... more than 3 years!

You should wait the prices to drop, because AMD has confirmed that they will drop the 7870 prices to $249 and the 7850 to $209. Keep and eye on that, these are great cards on what you're doing. I recommend these cards, they are worth the prices!

I have pretty good experience with AMD parts, they are fine. They are good for their prices.

The thing you need to care about is the Power Supply, Get A good one! I recommend this:

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817139020

If you're planning on overclocking the CPU, get yourself an aftermarket cooler. It will help the CPU temperatures down, even when overclocked... I recommend this:

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16835103099

As for the Motherboard, It doesn't really matter. But I recommend you to get motherboards that will support the processor well and from decent brands. ASUS, Gigabyte and MSI is what I usually take a look at. For the RAM, just make sure it is compatible with your motherboard. Full stop! I recommend 2 sticks of 4GBs.

You might also take a look at buying SSD, SSD boosts boot speed, copying speed, data load speeds, etc. and they are much more efficient.

You also should buy good cases, they provide you good looks for your PC and it has features that will help you building the PC. I have found a good case, bundled with the Power supply I suggested, with a $25 sale .

http://www.newegg.com/Product/ComboDealDetails.aspx?ItemList=Combo.1021005

Good Luck