Getting ready to build a new PC after 4-5 years with old one. Need advice.

I had been trying to keep up with new hardware and stuff for a while after my last PC but I fell behind heh, WAY behind.... So... I'm not real sure what my best bets would be on config that can handle the most recent games. I do know that I would like a AMD dual or even quad core CPU with probably a ASUS or BFG mobo if I can find a good one. I have been thinking about SLI but as long as I can get one card (Nvidia) that can handle games like Crysis and the like for around $200 or under, I would be fine with that.

Like I said, it's been a while since I followed the most recent hardware out there so I had a few questions... Concerning SLI, Do both of the cards have to be the same version type? Like say a Dx10 card matched up with a DX9 card, would that work in combination? (I was just thinking maybe a cheaper DX10 card with my current card, unless there would be no benefit,or it wouldn't work.)

OR, Do the cards have to be the exact same type as far as an 8 series having to be paired up with another 8?

Right now though I'm more concerned with starting out with a good CPU/mobo, I found this online and wondered if this would be a good starting point or not.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/ComboDealDetails.aspx?ItemList=Combo.160471

Performance wise, How does this CPU hold up?

I'll get you updated:

-ATI has gotten its act together, and are making some kick-ass cards

-Intel processors dominate the market, but AMD are trying to fight them off with Phenom II

-Gigabyte motherboards are one of the most efficient, stable and reliable, not to mention cheapest.

-You do not necessarily need to SLI for Crysis, unless you play at a very high resolution.

So, just give us your maximum budget, your native monitor resolution, and we'll get you hooked up with some nifty hardware.

A great processor to get is the Intel Q9550 as its getting a 40% price reduction very soon, then u can just overclock it with a thermalright ultra 120 cooler, get at least 4 gigs ddr2 ram at 1066 its cheap and isnt much difference from what i know to ddr 3 ram. For the video card get from the gtx series. The gtx 260 (216) core is the best for price/value but the gtx 295 is the most powerful card out right now. The i7 processors are the best performance wise but theyre expensive. See its hard to reccomend without you giving us a price range.godofwar2610

Price range... Srry about that. I haven't set an exact price yet but Iwas hoping to put together somethin half-way decent for no more than $700. I'm awaiting the laughter from some but with the way prices have dropped I was hoping it was doable. I do want something that I can play around with a bit O/C'ing That's why I was looking at the ASUS board, I have had mostly those in the past and they always allowed me to adjust the right settings. But anyways, That's the price range I'm hoping to stay under. And as far as ram goes I was going to get at least 3gigs. I honestly don't play too many games above 1024x768, (RTS's I'll turn up the resolution sometimes.) usually with just a lil AA like 2x and 4x AF 8 on some games. So no real high res goin on here.

I have always been partial to Nvidia though and would probably go with something they make. Is it still true though that intel pairs up better with ATI if I go that route? (At least in the past I thought it was that way.)

Oh and thanks for the help guys. =)

Just don't compare AMD to Intel and you're good. Not saying Intel is far superior, but the benchmarks I've read/seen have proven quite a bit.

Personally, I'm still going with AMD. I did want an Intel but the prices are steep for me. I tried to go cheap but it'd be a waste of a good i7 core. Performance-wise, if you're upgrading from an old system of like 3-5 years or so, you'll notice a major difference regardless. ;)

EDIT: $700 is doable for what you're wanting I'd think.

Price range... Srry about that. I haven't set an exact price yet but Iwas hoping to put together somethin half-way decent for no more than $700. I'm awaiting the laughter from some but with the way prices have dropped I was hoping it was doable. I do want something that I can play around with a bit O/C'ing That's why I was looking at the ASUS board, I have had mostly those in the past and they always allowed me to adjust the right settings. But anyways, That's the price range I'm hoping to stay under. And as far as ram goes I was going to get at least 3gigs. I honestly don't play too many games above 1024x768, (RTS's I'll turn up the resolution sometimes.) usually with just a lil AA like 2x and 4x AF 8 on some games. So no real high res goin on here.

I have always been partial to Nvidia though and would probably go with something they make. Is it still true though that intel pairs up better with ATI if I go that route? (At least in the past I thought it was that way.)

Oh and thanks for the help guys. =)

Flat_Line_____

They don't "pair up" with another better, its just personal perference.

Motherboard: GIGABYTE GA-G31M-ES2L LGA 775 Intel G31 Micro ATX Intel Motherboard - Retail $52.99

Memory: G.SKILL 4GB (2 x 2GB) 240-Pin DDR2 SDRAM DDR2 1000 (PC2 8000) Dual Channel Kit Desktop Memory Model F2-8000CL5D-4GBPQ - Retail $49.99

Processor + Power Supply: http://www.newegg.com/Product/ComboDealDetails.aspx?ItemList=Combo.159752 $279.98

CORSAIR CMPSU-650TX 650W ATX12V / EPS12V SLI Ready CrossFire Ready 80 PLUS Certified Active PFC Compatible with Core i7 Power Supply - Retail

Intel Core 2 Quad Q6600 Kentsfield 2.4GHz LGA 775 Quad-Core Processor Model BX80562Q6600 - Retail

Graphics Card + Game: XFX GX260NADFF GeForce GTX 260 Core 216 896MB 448-bit GDDR3 PCI Express 2.0 x16 HDCP Ready SLI Supported Video Card - Retail $214.99

Total: $597.95

What do you want with that extra $100? I mean, everything looks great.:P

[QUOTE="godofwar2610"]A great processor to get is the Intel Q9550 as its getting a 40% price reduction very soon, then u can just overclock it with a thermalright ultra 120 cooler, get at least 4 gigs ddr2 ram at 1066 its cheap and isnt much difference from what i know to ddr 3 ram. For the video card get from the gtx series. The gtx 260 (216) core is the best for price/value but the gtx 295 is the most powerful card out right now. The i7 processors are the best performance wise but theyre expensive. See its hard to reccomend without you giving us a price range.Auraknight1

I am serious and it is true linked for everyone :).

I had been trying to keep up with new hardware and stuff for a while after my last PC but I fell behind heh, WAY behind.... So... I'm not real sure what my best bets would be on config that can handle the most recent games. I do know that I would like a AMD dual or even quad core CPU with probably a ASUS or BFG mobo if I can find a good one. I have been thinking about SLI but as long as I can get one card (Nvidia) that can handle games like Crysis and the like for around $200 or under, I would be fine with that.

Like I said, it's been a while since I followed the most recent hardware out there so I had a few questions... Concerning SLI, Do both of the cards have to be the same version type? Like say a Dx10 card matched up with a DX9 card, would that work in combination? (I was just thinking maybe a cheaper DX10 card with my current card, unless there would be no benefit,or it wouldn't work.)

OR, Do the cards have to be the exact same type as far as an 8 series having to be paired up with another 8?

Right now though I'm more concerned with starting out with a good CPU/mobo, I found this online and wondered if this would be a good starting point or not.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/ComboDealDetails.aspx?ItemList=Combo.160471

Performance wise, How does this CPU hold up?

Flat_Line_____

Your on the right track with the combo deals....here are somemore suggestions to stay within your 700 dollar budget....

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814130339&nm_mc=EMC-IGNEFL021309&cm_mmc=EMC-IGNEFL021309-_-DesktopGraphicsVideoCards-_-L0B-_-14130339 .... the eVGA 9800GTX+..... 139.99 w/promo code EMCLNMP22 - 10$ MIR = 129.99

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817703009&nm_mc=EMC-IGNEFL021309&cm_mmc=EMC-IGNEFL021309-_-PowerSupplies-_-L0C-_-17703009 ...... the PC Power & Cooling 750w PSU.....129.99 w/promo code EMCLNMP29 - 35.00$ MIR = 89.99

http://www.newegg.com/Product/ComboDealDetails.aspx?ItemList=Combo.160277 .......Really nice Combo Deal for CPU and MB

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820231166 .....This Memory is awesome...I run it in my system and paid twice this amount 6 mo. ago

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16811146025 ......Great case !

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16822136218 ..... very fast and quiet HHD...I have 2 of these running in my rig.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16827136153 .....DVD Burner

OK....totals 725.00 before MIR. Subtract MIR totals (109.00) Total system 616.00 + S&H (Parts that will be charged for S&H are CPU/MB combo, Case, DVD Burner) ......Newegg will combine your S&H charges so it comes out a little less than if you purchased these parts individually.

Only item I omited was the OS, which you can purchase a Vista Home Premium x64 for 99.00 w/Free S&H http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16832116488

I hope this was some help.......Good Luck with your new system........:)

*+

Wow, Holy crap guys thanks lol. I am going to look these setups over and compare to eachother and with similar hardware. But it gives me a great idea on what to be looking for now. I had NO idea RAM was that cheap now 4Gb for $50 that's what I'm talkin about. :D

Now with either of those systems posted, I would be able to maintain a steady framerate in most new games right? (I try to play almost every new good game that comes out) And what about upcoming DX10 games? Will these systems still be good at running those games in the future?

OH, and when did video card prices go down so much?? The last card I bought was a 6800 Gt 256mb and that damn thing cost $400! The only reason I have a 7800 now is because BFG traded up for me when I had to send in the 6800. (BTW, I friggin love that company, LIFETIME warranty on they're products. )

lol Don't get me wrong, I'm glad you can get good cards now for $200 or less, I was just REALLY suprised.

Oh and how does that Kentsfield compare to the Phenom?Flat_Line_____

I might give the edge to the Intel, but not my very much if any at all....both chips can run a bit hot and it's recommended that one get a good aftermarket heatsink. That AMD chip would need one anyway because it's an OEM and nothing else is included with it that normally come with a retail item.......That combo deal on the AMD is awesome !

[QUOTE="Auraknight1"][QUOTE="godofwar2610"]A great processor to get is the Intel Q9550 as its getting a 40% price reduction very soon, then u can just overclock it with a thermalright ultra 120 cooler, get at least 4 gigs ddr2 ram at 1066 its cheap and isnt much difference from what i know to ddr 3 ram. For the video card get from the gtx series. The gtx 260 (216) core is the best for price/value but the gtx 295 is the most powerful card out right now. The i7 processors are the best performance wise but theyre expensive. See its hard to reccomend without you giving us a price range.godofwar2610

I am serious and it is true linked for everyone :).

[QUOTE="Flat_Line_____"]Oh and how does that Kentsfield compare to the Phenom?DieselCat18

I might give the edge to the Intel, but not my very much if any at all....both chips can run a bit hot and it's recommended that one get a good aftermarket heatsink. That AMD chip would need one anyway because it's an OEM and nothing else is included with it that normally come with a retail item.......That combo deal on the AMD is awesome !

http://www.legitreviews.com/article/682/4/

Not very much? The Q6600 tramples all over the Phenoms, while still consuming less power. Unless you plan on getting a Phenom II, go Intel. Oh, and why are you suggesting a high end, expensive motherboard to him, when you can get other much more important hardware?

Asus P5Q Deluxe

Perfect for Crossfire and single card Nvidia configurations

[QUOTE="godofwar2610"]

[QUOTE="Auraknight1"] Are you serious about the Q9550? IF so where are you're sources and if you're right I'll start dancing up and down like a hooligan( rofl ). What time is the price drop scheduled forAuraknight1

I am serious and it is true linked for everyone :).

[QUOTE="DieselCat18"]

[QUOTE="Flat_Line_____"]Oh and how does that Kentsfield compare to the Phenom?kaitanuvax

I might give the edge to the Intel, but not my very much if any at all....both chips can run a bit hot and it's recommended that one get a good aftermarket heatsink. That AMD chip would need one anyway because it's an OEM and nothing else is included with it that normally come with a retail item.......That combo deal on the AMD is awesome !

http://www.legitreviews.com/article/682/4/

Not very much? The Q6600 tramples all over the Phenoms, while still consuming less power. Unless you plan on getting a Phenom II, go Intel. Oh, and why are you suggesting a high end, expensive motherboard to him, when you can get other much more important hardware?

Because of the combo price with the chip and MB....Yes that MB is normally expensive, BUT, with the combo price Newegg has offered, It's DIRT CHEAP and he's getting a higher end mobo, which he can go multi SLi int future if he wants to. He also said he is partial to Nvidia cards.! Thus he is still not over spending and all the parts I suggested equate out to a very good MID to High end system.....Yes I wouild normally recommend someone to go with the Intel chip because as you said it does draw less power, but both the Q6600 and the AMD 9850 run on the 65nm mfg tech and not newer 45nm. Which means the both draw a bit more power and produce a little more heat than the newer chip sizes........but Intel is always more expensive and for these prices, the AMD with the Foxconn board will still do a great job, give him a very fast system and keep him in budget.......

*+

Yeah most of the reviews or articles I read were kinda slammin the Phenom CPU, Saying that AMD's best Quadcore couldn't even hit the speeds of Intel's slowest quad core.. Now these were reviews from around AUG 08 so I dunno how much things have changed, (OR even if the reviewer was right lol) especially with the Phenom 2 out. Which I priced BTW and was thinking pretty hard about it, I just don't know how much that would jack the price up on everything else....

I was going into this thinking that with the most important componets like the CPU and GPU I would probably spend around $200 each to make sure I get decent gear that will last me a while. That just doesn't leave much room in my budget...

I found this, http://www.newegg.com/Product/ComboDealDetails.aspx?ItemList=Combo.160276 Buuuut, I think it's a lil outta my price range... Would the CPU's that you guys suggested be right under these as far as performance goes?

Ooh, just found this too. http://www.newegg.com/Product/ComboDealDetails.aspx?ItemList=Combo.155230 That one is a lil more doable I think....

I may need to bump up my spending amount if this combo is worth it but I would HOPE to stay close to my original figures.

The second combo deal looks great. However I have my eyes on this mega combo...

http://www.newegg.com/Product/ComboDealDetails.aspx?ItemList=Combo.161386 $498.98

AMD Phenom II X4 940 Deneb 3.0GHz Socket AM2+ 125W Quad-Core Black Edition Processor Model HDZ940XCGIBOX - Retail

GIGABYTE GA-MA790X-UD4 AM2+/AM2 AMD 790X ATX AMD Motherboard - Retail

SAPPHIRE 100259L Radeon HD 4870 512MB 256-bit GDDR5 PCI Express 2.0 x16 HDCP Ready CrossFire Supported Video Card - Retail

^^DAMN, that looks like a helluva deal. I've just never went with ATI before.... Well a long time ago but,

Do they happen to have that deal with a Nvidia type card too?

^^DAMN, that looks like a helluva deal. I've just never went with ATI before.... Well a long time ago but,

Do they happen to have that deal with a Nvidia type card too?

Flat_Line_____

Most likely not. ATI is part of AMD, and you know how fierce the competition is between them and Nvidia. The world will end when AMD decides to partner up with Nvidia, and make a combo deal with one of its CPU and one of Nvidia's GPU.

Besides, it wouldn't make sense getting a Nvidia card for that motherboard. It only supports Crossfire, not SLI.

^^DAMN, that looks like a helluva deal. I've just never went with ATI before.... Well a long time ago but,

Do they happen to have that deal with a Nvidia type card too?

Most likely not. ATI is part of AMD, and you know how fierce the competition is between them and Nvidia. The world will end when AMD decides to partner up with Nvidia, and make a combo deal with one of its CPU and one of Nvidia's GPU.

Besides, it wouldn't make sense getting a Nvidia card for that motherboard. It only supports Crossfire, not SLI.

[QUOTE="kaitanuvax"][QUOTE="Flat_Line_____"]

^^DAMN, that looks like a helluva deal. I've just never went with ATI before.... Well a long time ago but,

Do they happen to have that deal with a Nvidia type card too?

Flat_Line_____

Most likely not. ATI is part of AMD, and you know how fierce the competition is between them and Nvidia. The world will end when AMD decides to partner up with Nvidia, and make a combo deal with one of its CPU and one of Nvidia's GPU.

Besides, it wouldn't make sense getting a Nvidia card for that motherboard. It only supports Crossfire, not SLI.

Yes that card is very good, equal to the HD 4870 I showed you.

[QUOTE="Flat_Line_____"]

Price range... Srry about that. I haven't set an exact price yet but Iwas hoping to put together somethin half-way decent for no more than $700. I'm awaiting the laughter from some but with the way prices have dropped I was hoping it was doable. I do want something that I can play around with a bit O/C'ing That's why I was looking at the ASUS board, I have had mostly those in the past and they always allowed me to adjust the right settings. But anyways, That's the price range I'm hoping to stay under. And as far as ram goes I was going to get at least 3gigs. I honestly don't play too many games above 1024x768, (RTS's I'll turn up the resolution sometimes.) usually with just a lil AA like 2x and 4x AF 8 on some games. So no real high res goin on here.

I have always been partial to Nvidia though and would probably go with something they make. Is it still true though that intel pairs up better with ATI if I go that route? (At least in the past I thought it was that way.)

Oh and thanks for the help guys. =)

kaitanuvax

They don't "pair up" with another better, its just personal perference.

Motherboard: GIGABYTE GA-G31M-ES2L LGA 775 Intel G31 Micro ATX Intel Motherboard - Retail $52.99

Memory: G.SKILL 4GB (2 x 2GB) 240-Pin DDR2 SDRAM DDR2 1000 (PC2 8000) Dual Channel Kit Desktop Memory Model F2-8000CL5D-4GBPQ - Retail $49.99

Processor + Power Supply: http://www.newegg.com/Product/ComboDealDetails.aspx?ItemList=Combo.159752 $279.98

CORSAIR CMPSU-650TX 650W ATX12V / EPS12V SLI Ready CrossFire Ready 80 PLUS Certified Active PFC Compatible with Core i7 Power Supply - Retail

Intel Core 2 Quad Q6600 Kentsfield 2.4GHz LGA 775 Quad-Core Processor Model BX80562Q6600 - Retail

Graphics Card + Game: XFX GX260NADFF GeForce GTX 260 Core 216 896MB 448-bit GDDR3 PCI Express 2.0 x16 HDCP Ready SLI Supported Video Card - Retail $214.99

Total: $597.95

What do you want with that extra $100? I mean, everything looks great.:P

Ok so I went over my initial budget but man, There are sooo many deals I couldn't help it....

This is what I have come up with so far, http://secure.newegg.com/Shopping/ShoppingCart.aspx?submit=ChangeItem

Now I will still need a decent Cpu fan (unless that Phenom comes with one?) I just didn't see any that said they would work with AM2+, that's what it is right?

If there are any areas that I could trim a lil money off please let me know lol. (Like maybe with the mobo, OR if Phenom II isn't much better that the original Phenom maybe I would go with a lil bit cheaper CPU...) I just wanted to make SURE I get a good future proof CPU GPU combo (As future proof as one can get heh) And I'm thinkin those are good choices.

Almost there though guys, Thanks again for all the advice and opinions, Keep em comin. I'll have to order kinda quick though cause the deal on the GTX ends after this weekend.

Maybe this heatsink? http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16835202005

OR http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16835887003 this one.

Oh, and I'm guessing that if it is AM2 compatible it will work with the Phenom 2 right?

Ok so I went over my initial budget but man, There are sooo many deals I couldn't help it....

This is what I have come up with so far, http://secure.newegg.com/Shopping/ShoppingCart.aspx?submit=ChangeItem

Now I will still need a decent Cpu fan (unless that Phenom comes with one?) I just didn't see any that said they would work with AM2+, that's what it is right?

If there are any areas that I could trim a lil money off please let me know lol. (Like maybe with the mobo, OR if Phenom II isn't much better that the original Phenom maybe I would go with a lil bit cheaper CPU...) I just wanted to make SURE I get a good future proof CPU GPU combo (As future proof as one can get heh) And I'm thinkin those are good choices.

Almost there though guys, Thanks again for all the advice and opinions, Keep em comin. I'll have to order kinda quick though cause the deal on the GTX ends after this weekend.

Maybe this heatsink? http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16835202005

OR http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16835887003 this one.

Oh, and I'm guessing that if it is AM2 compatible it will work with the Phenom 2 right?

Flat_Line_____

Sorry, but that Newegg shopping cart link leads us to our own carts, not yours. Please post your choices one by one. :)

Aww crap lol, I wondered about that.... here ya go.

CPU http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819103471

GPU http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814150329

Mobo http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813131362

Ram http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820231145

Case & PSU http://www.newegg.com/Product/ComboDealDetails.aspx?ItemList=Combo.160683

And then maybe one of those fans I posted earlier.

Aww crap lol, I wondered about that.... here ya go.

CPU http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819103471

GPU http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814150329

Mobo http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813131362

Ram http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820231145

Case & PSU http://www.newegg.com/Product/ComboDealDetails.aspx?ItemList=Combo.160683

And then maybe one of those fans I posted earlier.

Flat_Line_____

Wow, look at that case! It's like a freaking wind tunnel in there!:shock:

That PSU isn't as shocking, though. Unfortunately, the reviews don't favor it too well. You know something's up when a fifth of the reviews report DOA or damaged components shortly after purchase.

If money really is a problem, I would tune down the motherboard and get a high quality power supply.

CORSAIR CMPSU-650TX 650W ATX12V / EPS12V SLI Ready CrossFire Ready 80 PLUS Certified Active PFC Compatible with Core i7 Power Supply - Retail $99.99 free shipping

ASUS M3A78-CM AM2+/AM2 AMD 780V Micro ATX AMD Motherboard - Retail $74.99

Ok I changed up the case, PSU and I THINK I found the fan I want.

Case http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16811144218 (even though I liked that other one with the kickass fan on front lol)

PSU http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817139005 The one you suggested I think.

And the fan, http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16835185074 I like the fact that it can be mounted on ANY side :D I just hope it will fit in that case...

Oh and I left the Mobo the same cause it says it's optimized for AM3 setups. Plus, It has the Turbov OC utility.

Ok I changed up the case, PSU and I THINK I found the fan I want.

Case http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16811144218 (even though I liked that other one with the kickass fan on front lol)

PSU http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817139005 The one you suggested I think.

And the fan, http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16835185074 I like the fact that it can be mounted on ANY side :D I just hope it will fit in that case...

Oh and I left the Mobo the same cause it says it's optimized for AM3 setups. Plus, It has the Turbov OC utility.

Flat_Line_____

Whatever suits you. Those two statements are just to advertise the product better. Don't take them too seriously. All AM2+ mobos will be compatible with AM3 CPUs with only a BIOS update. I don't know what Turbov OC is, but usually Asus and Gigabyte motherboards overclock very well as they are, without the help of some fishy application.

[QUOTE="Auraknight1"][QUOTE="godofwar2610"]A great processor to get is the Intel Q9550 as its getting a 40% price reduction very soon, then u can just overclock it with a thermalright ultra 120 cooler, get at least 4 gigs ddr2 ram at 1066 its cheap and isnt much difference from what i know to ddr 3 ram. For the video card get from the gtx series. The gtx 260 (216) core is the best for price/value but the gtx 295 is the most powerful card out right now. The i7 processors are the best performance wise but theyre expensive. See its hard to reccomend without you giving us a price range.godofwar2610

I am serious and it is true linked for everyone :).

[QUOTE="Flat_Line_____"]

Ok I changed up the case, PSU and I THINK I found the fan I want.

Case http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16811144218 (even though I liked that other one with the kickass fan on front lol)

PSU http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817139005 The one you suggested I think.

And the fan, http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16835185074 I like the fact that it can be mounted on ANY side :D I just hope it will fit in that case...

Oh and I left the Mobo the same cause it says it's optimized for AM3 setups. Plus, It has the Turbov OC utility.

kaitanuvax

Whatever suits you. Those two statements are just to advertise the product better. Don't take them too seriously. All AM2+ mobos will be compatible with AM3 CPUs with only a BIOS update. I don't know what Turbov OC is, but usually Asus and Gigabyte motherboards overclock very well as they are, without the help of some fishy application.

Oh and in case you want to know where I got those #'s here ya go. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_AMD_Phenom_microprocessors#.22Deneb.22_.28C2.2C_45_nm.2C_quad-core.29

[QUOTE="kaitanuvax"][QUOTE="Flat_Line_____"]

Ok I changed up the case, PSU and I THINK I found the fan I want.

Case http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16811144218 (even though I liked that other one with the kickass fan on front lol)

PSU http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817139005 The one you suggested I think.

And the fan, http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16835185074 I like the fact that it can be mounted on ANY side :D I just hope it will fit in that case...

Oh and I left the Mobo the same cause it says it's optimized for AM3 setups. Plus, It has the Turbov OC utility.

Flat_Line_____

Whatever suits you. Those two statements are just to advertise the product better. Don't take them too seriously. All AM2+ mobos will be compatible with AM3 CPUs with only a BIOS update. I don't know what Turbov OC is, but usually Asus and Gigabyte motherboards overclock very well as they are, without the help of some fishy application.

Oh and in case you want to know where I got those #'s here ya go. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_AMD_Phenom_microprocessors#.22Deneb.22_.28C2.2C_45_nm.2C_quad-core.29

AM3 chips are yet to be made, but the AM3 socket will be what they will be based on. Phenom IIs are AM2+ chips. AM2+ I figure is just a newer version of AM2, probably with a preupdated BIOS. Phenom IIs are MUCH more powerful than regular Phenoms. As of yet, the 940 is the most powerful AMD CPU available. I recommend it.

Ok good, I think I know what I'm getting now. :D Thanks SO MUCH for your help, and to everyone else that gave opinions. I am gonna go with that other board, which will save me a lil more $$. NOW I have to get the wife to look at what I got setup and get her to agree on it lol. (I'm getting it no matter what though ;) ) If you think of anything else I should know just let me know here or PM me. Thanks again.Flat_Line_____

Good luck with your purchase. :)

Ok lol ONE more thing.... Does that board you suggested support SLi? I don't know if it's something I want to do or not BUT If I can use the card I have now with this new 1 in SLI I would like to do it. I just don't know how SLi configs match up.... (Like I said earlier I'm behind on my PC hardware)

And what is this?? http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819103648 It says it's a AM3 CPU but it's a triple core? That can't be better than the one I'm looking at right?

Ok lol ONE more thing.... Does that board you suggested support SLi? I don't know if it's something I want to do or not BUT If I can use the card I have now with this new 1 in SLI I would like to do it. I just don't know how SLi configs match up.... (Like I said earlier I'm behind on my PC hardware)Flat_Line_____

Nope. Boards that support multiple GPUs cost alot more.

MSI K9N2 SLI Platinum AM2+/AM2 NVIDIA nForce 750a SLI ATX AMD Motherboard - Retail $129.99

Cheapest I can find while still retaining good reviews.

Ok lol ONE more thing.... Does that board you suggested support SLi? I don't know if it's something I want to do or not BUT If I can use the card I have now with this new 1 in SLI I would like to do it. I just don't know how SLi configs match up.... (Like I said earlier I'm behind on my PC hardware)

And what is this?? http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819103648 It says it's a AM3 CPU but it's a triple core? That can't be better than the one I'm looking at right?

Flat_Line_____

Of course not. In my personal view, AMD's tri-cores are just a gimmick.

Ok I didn't THINK so but since it just came out, I thought it might be better. Um about the SLI though.... I just started reading up on it but haven't gotten to the answer I'm looking for. Like I said earlier I have a 7800gt right now, would that work in combination with the new card on a SLI board?

I know the performace increase may not be that much, But if i have this card just layin around I'd like to be able to put it to some use. Couldn't hurt right?

Ok I didn't THINK so but since it just came out, I thought it might be better. Um about the SLI though.... I just started reading up on it but haven't gotten to the answer I'm looking for. Like I said earlier I have a 7800gt right now, would that work in combination with the new card on a SLI board?

I know the performace increase may not be that much, But if i have this card just layin around I'd like to be able to put it to some use. Couldn't hurt right?

Flat_Line_____

Actually it would hurt. You'd be using alot more power than a single more powerful card. You'd also be wasting money on a SLI board that could go into a cheap, better video card. I don't recommend CF / SLI unless its absolutely necessary or profitable, which in this case it isn't.

[QUOTE="Flat_Line_____"]

Ok I didn't THINK so but since it just came out, I thought it might be better. Um about the SLI though.... I just started reading up on it but haven't gotten to the answer I'm looking for. Like I said earlier I have a 7800gt right now, would that work in combination with the new card on a SLI board?

I know the performace increase may not be that much, But if i have this card just layin around I'd like to be able to put it to some use. Couldn't hurt right?

kaitanuvax

Actually it would hurt. You'd be using alot more power than a single more powerful card. You'd also be wasting money on a SLI board that could go into a cheap, better video card. I don't recommend CF / SLI unless its absolutely necessary or profitable, which in this case it isn't.

Alright I finally made up mind and here is what I came up with.

CPU http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819103471

GPU http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814150329

Mobo http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813135085 I haven't heard of this company before but the more I read about it and with almost all good reviews the more I liked it. 3PCI slots, 4 mem and I read that it can do hybrid SLI with the onboard Nvidia 8200 (From what I hear is not a bad onboard gpu on it's own.) And I read that it was AM3 upgradeable through a Bios update? I might be wrong on that last one but if not that's ok.

PSU http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817139005

RAM http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820231122

HDD http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16822136320

DvD/RW http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16827151171 Almost forgot about this, I have been needing a DVD burner so... and it was at a awsome price.

Case http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16811144218 Not that one with the kick ass Batmobile engine fan on the front lol but it's still ok. Has cool fan control knobs and the USB ports on the top of the case.

CPU Heatsink/Fan http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16835185074 Really like the way it can be mounted on any side.

Then just some accessories, http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16835186020 Got this instead of Arctic Silver cause it's non-conductive. (I have been known to accidentally get paste on the mobo from time to time heh.)

And a chipset fan for the motherboard. The only half-way negative thing users had to say about the board was that the 8200 chip ran a lil hot so... http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16835425007

I will just start out with the OS I already have for now, (XP Pro x32) and will probably try out Vista through a friend or something to see if I like it. But I think I'm pretty much covered for now right? I went over what I initially planned to spend, But I knew I would. But I placed my order last night and can't wait for Wed to get here now. :D Giggity

Thanks again for your help and I'm sure I will have alot of questions about how to setup some of my bios settings and whatnot regarding this new hardware, But I will read up on as much as I can too.

NO do not get ECS! Switch the mobo back to a Gigabyte or Asus ASAP!kaitanuvax

Yeah I went ahead and ordered this: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813138113

I'll probably send the other one back, But most of the problems that I read about with the ECG were from people that didn't seem to know how to set the Bios properly for their CPU's. But there was a problem that I didn't see that wasn't clearly stated in the specs anyways, That ECG board says it works with new Phenoms but it didn't say not above the 95w range..... A couple people said it works for them but I dunno.... I'll just have to send it back when it gets here.

Ok good, I think I know what I'm getting now. :D Thanks SO MUCH for your help, and to everyone else that gave opinions. I am gonna go with that other board, which will save me a lil more $$. NOW I have to get the wife to look at what I got setup and get her to agree on it lol. (I'm getting it no matter what though ;) ) If you think of anything else I should know just let me know here or PM me. Thanks again.Flat_Line_____