System Builder Marathon: TH's $2000 Hand-Picked Build
Processor And CPU Cooling
CPU: Intel Core i7-970
Intel’s cheapest six-core (twelve thread) desktop processor, the Core i7-970 uses the same fundamental architecture as the company's Core i7-980X Extreme. It only lacks the flagship's unlocked multiplier and 133 MHz in stock clock rate, coming in at 3.20 GHz.
Read Customer Reviews of Intel's Core i7-970
We’re hoping to reach the same 4.46 GHz clock at 1.35 V that we previously saw from our Core i7-980X, though that goal might be a little high considering our cooling limitations. We didn’t have enough money left to buy the highest-end air cooling solution, let alone something more extreme like liquid cooling.
Additionally, Intel’s speed-binning might have left our particular processor with less overclocking capability than its upscale sibling.
CPU Cooling: Scythe Mugen 2 Revision B
Read Customer Reviews of Scythe's Mugen 2 Revision B
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Listed at Newegg as part number SCMG-2100, the Mugen 2 Revision B is slightly more powerful and quieter at full force than the already-oversized Intel Boxed Cooler that comes with its Gulftown processors.
Compatible with a broader range of CPU interfaces than its previous version, this cooler's performance took second-place in our Big Air Roundup behind a unit that costs twice as much.
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duk3 I agree, however, this SBM was about 6-core performance.Reply
With an i7-930, a better heatsink, 2 470s and maybe an extra fan or 2 for the case is in reach. -
Crashman duk3I agree, however, this SBM was about 6-core performance.With an i7-930, a better heatsink, 2 470s and maybe an extra fan or 2 for the case is in reach.yes, the i7-930 and a couple 470's would be normal in the SBM $2000 PC.Reply
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IzzyCraft I guess these were more performance driven choices. I still will miss the case, i'd gladly trade a 920/930 for the SilverStone RavenReply -
Crashman IzzyCraftI guess these were more performance driven choices. I still will miss the case, i'd gladly trade a 920/930 for the SilverStone RavenQuality-wise, the Three Hundred is probably the best case you can get for under $80, but there should have been one more fan in the system given the internally-vented graphics cards the system ended up with. On the other hand, a lot of builders would be more than happy to "settle for" 4GHz at 1.30V, and the CPU will certainly live longer at the lower voltage.Reply -
pinkfloydminnesota A 970 and a drop to 460s? Are you kidding me? How much is newegg dropping in ad revenue for you to help them dump this overpriced stock?Reply
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