Gaming PC recommendation

[CSurf]

Hey Guys

I want to purchase a new mid-performance system. I want it to run new generation games with 1024 resolution and mid detail and last for several years.

I’ve done some research on hardware and games review (Doom 3/HL-2), but would like your input before I purchase my system.

This is what my system looks like so far:
CPU: P4 2.8GHz Northwood 800MHz FSB
MOBO: Microstar 865PE Neo2-PFS Platinum motherboard (No RAID)
RAM: x1 512Mb Kingmax/A-Data PC3200 DDR400 Memory
HDD.: x1 Seagate Barracuda 7200.7 120GB SATA-150 8MB 7200rpm
VGA: GeCube 9800 Pro 128MB 256bit

I don’t want to go for the absolute cheap stuff. I’m a little flexible, but I want to stick to my budget.
I tried to find reviews and benchmark on the GeCube 9800 Pro everywhere, but haven’t found anything. I’m not sure if it’s reliable and performs the same as other 9800 Pro.

How much fps required for new generation games? E.g. is 99fps in CS the same as 60fps in say Doom 3?

Also, do I need Arctic Silver or is the standard thermal compound stuff that comes with fan sufficient?

Note: I definitely will not overclock.

Anyone with similar specs please let me know how you are running Doom 3. e.g. FPS, resolution, any drop in fps during heavy action etc.

Thanks

Siamac

 

[DonnieDarko]

Not a bad setup, But if you are looking towards mainly gaming, you may want to consider a amd64 processor/mobo instead.

AMD64 2800+
MSI Neo-Fis2r
512mb Kingmax ddr400
Sapphire 9800pro 128mb
10K WD Raptor

 

[DonnieDarko]

And also i wouldn't suggest a gecube made graphics card. you may want to go with a sapphire or built by ati 9800pro.

AMD64 2800+
MSI Neo-Fis2r
512mb Kingmax ddr400
Sapphire 9800pro 128mb
10K WD Raptor

 

[Obtuse]

My friend's A64 2800+ w/9800 pro runs doom3 fine, though not at uber resolutions or with eye candy turned up. And... a second vote to go AMD if this is a gaming rig.

"It's too late now anyway. That song is stuck in my head and the only way to get rid of it is to blow it out. With a bullet!! - Carl

 

[Spitfire_x86]

I recommend Athlon64 based setup

You can go for A64 2800+ with Chaintech VNF3-250. Or you can save some money if you buy Sempron 3100+ and maybe then you will be able to afford a better video card like GeForce 6800 (non-Ultra)

Doom3 max. fps is locked to 60

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[endyen]

For a little less you could change your chip to an A64-3000+ and get an Asrock K8S8X mobo. Dont know if the performance boost would be worth the savings though. I mean paying $10 less for 10% more just may not be worth it.

 

[cefoskey]

That is practically my identical system.

Im going agree with most of the guys here, if you game get an A64 system, not to mention its capability with 64 apps in the future.

Concerning your card, id stick with BBA 9800's. I think its worth a little extra money to get a brand I have heard of.

"Who is General Failure, and why is he reading my drive?"
P4 3.0C HT, Intel D865GBF, 512MB Crucial PC3200 DDR, 2x WD 36GB Raptor 10kRPM, BBA Radeon 9800PRO, SB Audigy, Hauppage WinTV