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Gaming PC build help (~€600)

  • 01-01-2012 1:24pm
    #1
    jaykhunter
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 12,013 ✭✭✭✭


    Happy new year everyone! Looking for a new video editing/gaming rig :)Was kinda hoping to get a second hand PC but i'm a bit sus now that i can't build it myself for cheaper.

    1. What is your budget? Up to €600, but can be flexible if it's really good value for money/worth it...Extra 50 maybe.

    2. What will be the main purpose of the computer? Video editing, gaming (would like to be able to run new games on max settings, but at least "high" without problems), internet.

    3. Do you need a copy of Windows? I have winXP but I'd get a student copy of Win7.

    4. Can you use any parts from an old computer? Yes.
    HDD - I have 3 internal drives (1 x IDE, 2x SATA) but i'd need to replace the IDE, it's quite old. At least 500GB if not 1TB; but should the primary gaming drive be a solid state drive to get benefits?

    I have an external DVD drive so i'd use that.

    My friend gave me some bits and bobs for a new comp and i hope it's useful? If there's a much better thing out now for relatively cheap/good value i'll use that instead but i'd like to use at least some of it if not all --

    RAM - My friend did give me two sticks of DDR2 1GB G.skill ram. I'd need at least 4GB but preferably 8GB if that's helpful (or is a dedicated graphics card better for games?)

    Also a Termaltake TR2-470 power deeley. Is that good enough or do i need a new one?

    Graphics Card - Sparkle GeForce 7900 PCI Express. 256MB GDDR3

    5. Do you need a monitor? Yes

    5a. If yes, what size do you need. widescreen ~20". There's probably a value/cost trade-off at a certain size and that's where i'd like to be :D

    5b. If no, what resolution is your current monitor and do you plan to upgrade in the near future?

    6. Do you need any of these peripherals?
    I need a soundcard, it has to be great quality though; HD audio; that said I just need 2.0/2.1 with my setup, but i want music to sound great. (Already have speakers)

    I'd like a cool case that has some lights :) (:rolleyes:)
    something like this or this

    New Keyboard and wireless mouse as well... Is there anything else i need to have a functioning desktop?


    7. Are you willing to try overclocking?
    If it's easy and the risk of frying your stuff is low.

    8. How can you pay?
    Cash, credit card, paypal preferably. Other methods possible but undesired

    9. When are you purchasing?
    ASAP really!

    10. If you need help building it, where are you based?
    Dublin

    Also, are these computers on adverts any good? if i could buy one of these and order one or two things online for overall cheaper, that's definitely an option.

    this    , this, this, this, this, or this? I quite like the cut of the first two, esp the first one - it comes with monitors. I've been frankensteining my dell over the years so i don't mind making the computer manually :)

    Thanks for looking guys


«134

Comments

  • #2
    Jaafa
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 2,621 ✭✭✭Jaafa


    I don't think there's anything there you couldn't build yourself for much cheaper. And many of them are pretty much outdated now anyway. I can't recommend a build, but I'm sure one of the lads will be along soon enough.


  • #3
    jaykhunter
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 12,013 ✭✭✭✭jaykhunter


    Thanks mate. My main concern is video editing - i'll be likely doing more of that than gaming. Is there a particular graphics card/mobo that'd be better suited to that, or do both well, or is it all the same?


  • #4
    infowars.com
    Closed Accounts Posts: 145 ✭✭infowars.com


    for a case haf922 from komplett 102 euro
    motherboard asusm5a99xevo, mines is amd i think you can get it for intel too
    and has overclocking also has hd aduio 8.1 built in so you wouldent need a sound card


  • #5
    jaykhunter
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 12,013 ✭✭✭✭jaykhunter


    sorry man, i'm quite new to building pcs; could u link to things to buy? Is komplett the best place to buy PC kit?

    Also, should i just follow this guy's lead for suggestions?

    http://www.boards.ie/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=2056498349

    Cheers :)


  • #6
    infowars.com
    Closed Accounts Posts: 145 ✭✭infowars.com


    http://www.komplett.ie/Komplett/site/KomplettHome.aspx


    http://www.elara.ie/

    have a look on they two sites


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  • #7
    Tij da feen
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 598 ✭✭✭Tij da feen


    If you're looking for the best prices go to http://www2.hardwareversand.de/home.jsp. The reason that they're so cheap is they have a lower rate of VAT. Komplett and Elara are fairly expensive in comparison. If you really want to go irish go to dabs.ie.


  • #8
    partyatmygaff
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 10,992 ✭✭✭✭partyatmygaff


    Tij da feen wrote: »
    If you're looking for the best prices go to http://www2.hardwareversand.de/home.jsp. The reason that they're so cheap is they have a lower rate of VAT. Komplett and Elara are fairly expensive in comparison. If you really want to go irish go to dabs.ie.
    Dabs.ie are so Irish that they're owned by British Telecom...

    But really though, i'd buy off hardwareversand.de . If you were adamant about buying from an Irish company, the only people I can think of are Elara.ie


  • #9
    Tij da feen
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 598 ✭✭✭Tij da feen


    partyatmygaff wrote: »
    Dabs.ie are so Irish that they're owned by British Telecom...

    But really though, i'd buy off hardwareversand.de . If you were adamant about buying from an Irish company, the only people I can think of are Elara.ie

    What I meant is the VAT going to the Irish tax man. Sorry I wasn't clear about that haha.


  • #10
    infowars.com
    Closed Accounts Posts: 145 ✭✭infowars.com


    i heard dabs are a nightmere so id stay well away from them,like i say i found komplett helpfully, elara ahh so so. i think they are [SNIP]


  • #11
    jaykhunter
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 12,013 ✭✭✭✭jaykhunter


    Thanks guys! I recently found out from the Bargain Alerts section that there's a dell sale going on for XPS's -- here's what I came up with

    Hey guys, badly need a new PC, was sorting out building my own but these deals sound great.

    Base Intel® Core™ i7-2600 Processor (3.40GHz, 8MB)
    Memory 12288MB Dual Channel DDR3 1333MHz [2x4096 + 2x2048] Memory
    Keyboard Logitech MK520 Wireless Combo UK (the upgrade option)
    Video Card NVIDIA® GeForce GT 530 1GB DDR3 Graphics Card
    Sound Cards Sound : Integrated 7.1 with THX® TruStudio
    Gedis Bundle Reference D11X8328

    Total cost €687

    I'll have to source a new monitor myself (the ones on the dell site are far too expensive)

    Is that keyboard worth the extra cash?

    Also will this video card need to be upgraded to play (eg) Skyrim on highest/ultra settings? Will i be able to play PC on high specs for the next few years?

    This sound card - is it ok; like is it HD audio; the upgrade they offer is really overpriced (60bucks, costs about 35 on amazon). I'll be editing HD video and recording podcasts; do i need to upgrade the soundcard?

    If i'm to upgrade, best bang for your buck is the graphics card, right? So maybe up to the 545? Would there be that much difference or meh? Like is it worth the 80 bucks.

    I'll check hardwareversand.de, komplett and dabs sites for a new case, i would like a flashy one, lol.

    Thanks guys :)


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  • #12
    partyatmygaff
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 10,992 ✭✭✭✭partyatmygaff


    jaykhunter wrote: »
    Thanks guys! I recently found out from the Bargain Alerts section that there's a dell sale going on for XPS's -- here's what I came up with

    Hey guys, badly need a new PC, was sorting out building my own but these deals sound great.

    Base Intel® Core™ i7-2600 Processor (3.40GHz, 8MB)
    Memory 12288MB Dual Channel DDR3 1333MHz [2x4096 + 2x2048] Memory
    Keyboard Logitech MK520 Wireless Combo UK (the upgrade option)
    Video Card NVIDIA® GeForce GT 530 1GB DDR3 Graphics Card
    Sound Cards Sound : Integrated 7.1 with THX® TruStudio
    Gedis Bundle Reference D11X8328

    Total cost €687

    I'll have to source a new monitor myself (the ones on the dell site are far too expensive)

    Is that keyboard worth the extra cash?
    That XPS 8300 is a decent deal. All it needs is a better graphics card and it's perfect. The keyboard isn't really worth it. Wireless keyboards generally aren't a very good idea. The standard Dell USB keyboard is perfectly good for even the most discerning of users... The only "fancy" keyboard i'd ever consider buying would be a Das Ultimate keyboard.
    Also will this video card need to be upgraded to play (eg) Skyrim on highest/ultra settings? Will i be able to play PC on high specs for the next few years?
    Definitely.

    You'd need a HD6850 at minimum to be able to play the likes of Skyrim or BF3 maxed out. If you can afford it, get a GTX 560 Ti.

    If you want to up the ante and get a HD6950, you'll need a sata -> PCI E adaptor because the PSU in that XPS only has one PCI E cable.
    This sound card - is it ok; like is it HD audio; the upgrade they offer is really overpriced (60bucks, costs about 35 on amazon). I'll be editing HD video and recording podcasts; do i need to upgrade the soundcard?
    Recording podcasts using what? If you've got a fancy setup with condenser mics e.t.c. I'd buy a pro audio interface. Sound cards are pretty pointless nowadays.
    If i'm to upgrade, best bang for your buck is the graphics card, right? So maybe up to the 545? Would there be that much difference or meh? Like is it worth the 80 bucks.
    GT 530 - GT 545 isn't going to make that big of a difference in getting that computer to play Skyrim on Ultra.
    I'll check hardwareversand.de, komplett and dabs sites for a new case, i would like a flashy one, lol.
    Check out the Thermaltake Commander MS X on Hardwareversand. It's less than €39 and it's a great case imo.


  • #13
    jaykhunter
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 12,013 ✭✭✭✭jaykhunter


    You're the man, partyatmygaff! Very helpful.

    If slightly upgrading the graphics card wouldn't do anything noticeable for me then I'll just leave it until I can afford to spend a couple of hundred on it :o

    My podcast setup is just mics plugged into the computer and using audacity/cool edit pro to reduce hiss, that's about it; i'd upgrade the mics to blue yeti(s) but that's about it! I just bought Creative T40s so i'd like something that'd sound lovely with it! Can u recommend something from Hardwareversand or do u think the one it comes with is good enough? (Integrated 7.1 with THX® TruStudio)

    the Thermaltake Commander MS X on Hardwareversand
    -- is this it in action?

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FmyeUgBlj2I


    I quite like it, it's pretty cool. I know it's childish but I like the blue lights and odd angles etc. Automatically gets 'oohs' and 'aahs' from my computer-illiterate friends, lol. Do u have any other suggestions that I can compare to?


  • #14
    Eboggles
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 1,600 ✭✭✭Eboggles


    jaykhunter wrote: »
    Happy new year everyone! Looking for a new video editing/gaming rig :)Was kinda hoping to get a second hand PC but i'm a bit sus now that i can't build it myself for cheaper.

    1. What is your budget? Up to €600, but can be flexible if it's really good value for money/worth it...Extra 50 maybe.

    2. What will be the main purpose of the computer? Video editing, gaming (would like to be able to run new games on max settings, but at least "high" without problems), internet.

    3. Do you need a copy of Windows? I have winXP but I'd get a student copy of Win7.

    4. Can you use any parts from an old computer? Yes.
    HDD - I have 3 internal drives (1 x IDE, 2x SATA) but i'd need to replace the IDE, it's quite old. At least 500GB if not 1TB; but should the primary gaming drive be a solid state drive to get benefits?

    I have an external DVD drive so i'd use that.

    My friend gave me some bits and bobs for a new comp and i hope it's useful? If there's a much better thing out now for relatively cheap/good value i'll use that instead but i'd like to use at least some of it if not all --

    RAM - My friend did give me two sticks of DDR2 1GB G.skill ram. I'd need at least 4GB but preferably 8GB if that's helpful (or is a dedicated graphics card better for games?)

    Also a Termaltake TR2-470 power deeley. Is that good enough or do i need a new one?

    Graphics Card - Sparkle GeForce 7900 PCI Express. 256MB GDDR3

    5. Do you need a monitor? Yes

    5a. If yes, what size do you need. widescreen ~20". There's probably a value/cost trade-off at a certain size and that's where i'd like to be :D

    5b. If no, what resolution is your current monitor and do you plan to upgrade in the near future?

    6. Do you need any of these peripherals?
    I need a soundcard, it has to be great quality though; HD audio; that said I just need 2.0/2.1 with my setup, but i want music to sound great. (Already have speakers)

    I'd like a cool case that has some lights :) (:rolleyes:)
    something like this or this

    New Keyboard and wireless mouse as well... Is there anything else i need to have a functioning desktop?


    7. Are you willing to try overclocking?
    If it's easy and the risk of frying your stuff is low.

    8. How can you pay?
    Cash, credit card, paypal preferably. Other methods possible but undesired

    9. When are you purchasing?
    ASAP really!

    10. If you need help building it, where are you based?
    Dublin

    Also, are these computers on adverts any good? if i could buy one of these and order one or two things online for overall cheaper, that's definitely an option.

    this    , this, this, this, this, or this? I quite like the cut of the first two, esp the first one - it comes with monitors. I've been frankensteining my dell over the years so i don't mind making the computer manually :)

    Thanks for looking guys
    Hey that psu looks okay, it could do you up to a 6870 at least. Here's what i got on hardwareversand.

    Total build cost: €607.82 + €30 shipping
    8GB-Kit G.Skill PC3-10667U CL9 €30.59
    ASRock Z68 Pro3 Gen3, Sockel 1155, ATX €103.01
    Intel Core i5-2500K Box, LGA1155 €195.88
    Sapphire HD6870 1G GDDR5 PCI-E DL-DVI-I+SL-DVI-D / HDMI / DP €147.49
    BitFenix Merc Beta €32.16
    Crucial M4 64GB SSD 6,4cm (2,5") €98.69

    I'm, not sure about the HD audio, so i think you'd be better at picking it out. The case is a bit plain, but it's good for the money. You could drop the graphics card to a 6850 (I'm getting 60fps ultra in skyrim with it) so you'd have more room for a sound card, but really I'd stick with a 6870. You can pick out the keyboard and mouse yourself, just don't buy keyboards off HWVS as they're in German. Hope I'm not forgetting anything!


  • #15
    jaykhunter
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 12,013 ✭✭✭✭jaykhunter


    Thanks Eboggles, so going through your specs --

    RAM - 8GB-Kit G.Skill PC3-10667U CL9 €30.59 (absolutely shocked at the cheap price!)
    Motherboard - ASRock Z68 Pro3 Gen3, Sockel 1155, ATX €103.01 ( <--- this has an optical out and 5 channel audio, should do the trick!)
    Processor - Intel Core i5-2500K Box, LGA1155 €195.88
    Graphics Card - Sapphire HD6870 1G GDDR5 PCI-E DL-DVI-I+SL-DVI-D / HDMI / DP €147.49
    Case - BitFenix Merc Beta €32.16
    Solid State HDD - Crucial M4 64GB SSD 6,4cm (2,5") €98.69
    use the power source & ext. DVD writer I have, get a new monitor (& keyboard somewhere else!) myself, optional get another sound card.

    Is there much difference between an i5 and i7? Fairly sure i saw people on both sides. Like would it be worth the cash to upgrade, another ~80 euros? Like if you're getting ultra on Skyrim with a 6850/i5 then it's mission accomplished, it'd be more for future-proofing.

    I'd like to build my own rather than the Dell specs as i'd still need to order another case and use my own PSU; but if the dell on sale is better for the cash than that's the way to go...:o


  • #16
    Serephucus
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 7,180 ✭✭✭Serephucus


    For video editing, the i7 would be more powerful, as (AFAIK), most video editing applications are very well threaded, and have no problem using lots of cores. For gaming, not so much.

    Rule of thumb:
    i5 2500K = i7 2600K - (Hyperthreading + 0.1GHz)

    It's only 0.1GHz faster, which is feck-all, and can be done through overclocking anyway, and Hyperthreading, (4/4 cores/threads vs. the i7's 4/8.) which not everything uses very well. Games, hardly at all.


  • #17
    jaykhunter
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 12,013 ✭✭✭✭jaykhunter


    Cheers Serephucus, 0.1GHz doesn't seem worth the money!

    Been looking at this monstrosity (€57.11 on HWVS) and it suits my need for something fancy-looking at a cheap price. Is there anything wrong with the build i have and this case? Also, should i be looking into USB 3.0s? My external hard drives are all 2.0...

    :)

    oh, and I assume the Eboggle's Sapphire HD6870 1G GDDR5 is far better than Dell's NVIDIA® GeForce GT 530 1GB DDR3 Graphics Card?


  • #18
    infowars.com
    Closed Accounts Posts: 145 ✭✭infowars.com


    thats a great price for ram i just paid 30 today for a stick a 4 gig


  • #19
    ShadowHearth
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 22,929 ✭✭✭✭ShadowHearth


    jaykhunter wrote: »
    Thanks Eboggles, so going through your specs --

    RAM - 8GB-Kit G.Skill PC3-10667U CL9 €30.59 (absolutely shocked at the cheap price!)
    Motherboard - ASRock Z68 Pro3 Gen3, Sockel 1155, ATX €103.01 ( <--- this has an optical out and 5 channel audio, should do the trick!)
    Processor - Intel Core i5-2500K Box, LGA1155 €195.88
    Graphics Card - Sapphire HD6870 1G GDDR5 PCI-E DL-DVI-I+SL-DVI-D / HDMI / DP €147.49
    Case - BitFenix Merc Beta €32.16
    Solid State HDD - Crucial M4 64GB SSD 6,4cm (2,5") €98.69
    use the power source & ext. DVD writer I have, get a new monitor (& keyboard somewhere else!) myself, optional get another sound card.

    Is there much difference between an i5 and i7? Fairly sure i saw people on both sides. Like would it be worth the cash to upgrade, another ~80 euros? Like if you're getting ultra on Skyrim with a 6850/i5 then it's mission accomplished, it'd be more for future-proofing.

    I'd like to build my own rather than the Dell specs as i'd still need to order another case and use my own PSU; but if the dell on sale is better for the cash than that's the way to go...:o

    2600k would be better for video editing due to hyper threading, but we are talking about tight budget. so i better stick with amazing all around 2500k, then investing in i7 and have worse other components.
    2500k can be overclocked and will have enough bang then you need m8.

    edit, sorry, did not sow 2 pages, already answered.

    vote on 2500k ;)


  • #20
    Eboggles
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 1,600 ✭✭✭Eboggles


    jaykhunter wrote: »
    Cheers Serephucus, 0.1GHz doesn't seem worth the money!

    Been looking at this monstrosity (€57.11 on HWVS) and it suits my need for something fancy-looking at a cheap price. Is there anything wrong with the build i have and this case? Also, should i be looking into USB 3.0s? My external hard drives are all 2.0...

    :)

    oh, and I assume the Eboggle's Sapphire HD6870 1G GDDR5 is far better than Dell's NVIDIA® GeForce GT 530 1GB DDR3 Graphics Card?
    So you want a case with flashing lights? Well then, you could spend some more and get something like this. Or even this for a balance between lights and cooling, or this.I haven't heard much about that Sagittarius case , but it doesn't look that bad.
    By the way, that maxed out Skyrim is on 1080p but low anti aliasing and the other thing (antispasmodic filtering?). The 6870 is only €20 extra and IMO a good buy, FAR better than the GT 530, I don't think the 530 is actually meant for gaming. A few of the cases in there have USB 3.0, so you're sorted on that, and there are a good few slots on the mobo.

    EDIT: Or this case :D.


  • #21
    jaykhunter
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 12,013 ✭✭✭✭jaykhunter


    That NZXT LeXa S Midi-Tower is very pretty. It was love at first sight with that Saggitarius, reminds me of Issac Clarke's suit from Dead Space 2 :pac: Am I endangering my PC or getting a worse performance by choosing the Saggitarius over, say, the NZXT? Like if i'd need to get another PSU or some other factor I'd choose another.

    Also, is there a concern about SATA slots for hard drives? I have 2 SATAs and 1 IDE HDD and i'd at least like to bring the SATAs over (have the SSD just for programs and games)

    I notice that most websites are tall but widescreen monitors are, well, wide. Is it possible to unscrew/re-screw monitors to have widescreen monitors as tall? (Did i just lose your respect?) I likely wouldn't go above 22inches for a monitor - when I game I'll almost definitely just HDMI out to the TV (like 1080p resolution is fine by me!) as it's in the same room. I need a monitor that would last years. Could you recommend the best value one around that size?

    specs wanted - 1080p resolution, 19-21.5", HDMI connectivity (VGA, DVI optional), great contrast ratio - preferably 5million:1 dynamic.


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  • #22
    infowars.com
    Closed Accounts Posts: 145 ✭✭infowars.com


    see they cases the coolermaster it only has one led on the front and it wont light up the case as showen in that pic


  • #23
    jaykhunter
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 12,013 ✭✭✭✭jaykhunter


    cheers, what would i need to light up the back of it? :o


  • #24
    infowars.com
    Closed Accounts Posts: 145 ✭✭infowars.com


    and after market cooler, i think ya can get led bulbs too m8


  • #25
    Eboggles
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 1,600 ✭✭✭Eboggles


    jaykhunter wrote: »
    That NZXT LeXa S Midi-Tower is very pretty. It was love at first sight with that Saggitarius, reminds me of Issac Clarke's suit from Dead Space 2 :pac: Am I endangering my PC or getting a worse performance by choosing the Saggitarius over, say, the NZXT? Like if i'd need to get another PSU or some other factor I'd choose another.

    Also, is there a concern about SATA slots for hard drives? I have 2 SATAs and 1 IDE HDD and i'd at least like to bring the SATAs over (have the SSD just for programs and games)

    I notice that most websites are tall but widescreen monitors are, well, wide. Is it possible to unscrew/re-screw monitors to have widescreen monitors as tall? (Did i just lose your respect?) I likely wouldn't go above 22inches for a monitor - when I game I'll almost definitely just HDMI out to the TV (like 1080p resolution is fine by me!) as it's in the same room. I need a monitor that would last years. Could you recommend the best value one around that size?

    specs wanted - 1080p resolution, 19-21.5", HDMI connectivity (VGA, DVI optional), great contrast ratio - preferably 5million:1 dynamic.
    This Asus one looks good, but out of stock for a while. This one is a bit more costly, but has 1080p, hdmi, and 5000000:1 contrast ratio, although you could just get a 24 inch for an extra 8 euro. I have that model and I find it to be great, though the contrast ratio is a bit low.


  • #26
    jaykhunter
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 12,013 ✭✭✭✭jaykhunter


    Cheers man. The first one is perfect (although it's out of stock) and the 2nd one meets all the requirements. I'd go the extra 8 euro but contrast is a big thing for me! Sure 21.5 is huge!

    I assume you'd connect the monitor to your graphics card?

    About the ASRock Z68 Pro3 Gen3, Sockel 1155, ATX, is there a similarly priced one with more audio options? Just wanna ask before setting it in stone


  • #27
    Serephucus
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 7,180 ✭✭✭Serephucus


    I'd get this motherboard, then combine it with something like this.


  • #28
    jaykhunter
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 12,013 ✭✭✭✭jaykhunter


    Cheers man, checking out your suggestions! Differences between
    ASRock Z68 Pro3 Gen3, Sockel 1155, ATX and
    ASRock Z68M/USB3, Sockel 1155, mATX (~€17 cheaper)

    Max supported memory 32 > 16 GB
    RAM Supported 4 > 2 DIMM slots
    Storage Ports 6>2 SATA-600, 4>2 SATA-300, 1 eSATA, 1-ATA
    USB/Firewire 5>2 Superspeed, 1 Firewire, 3<4 Hi-Speed USB + headers
    Max Allocated RAM size (?)
    Both are HD Audio 8-channel
    2>1 LAN gigabit ethernet

    What is max allocated RAM size? (1759 MB)
    16GB sounds like more than you'd ever need; i imagine upgrading cores and graphics cards would do more for performance than RAM at this stage?
    Why would you need 2 lan ports?

    Both motherboards had "HD Audio" but the soundcard ASUS Xonar DG, PCI x1

    Description
    Device Type Sound card - low profile
    Enclosure Type Plug-in card
    Interface Type PCI
    Dimensions (WxDxH) 17 cm x 6.4 cm
    Signal Processor CMI-8786
    Sound Output Mode 5.1 channel surround
    DAC Data Width 24-bit
    Sample Rate 44.1 kHz (min) - 96 kHz (max)
    Signal-To-Noise Ratio 105 dB
    System Requirements Microsoft Windows XP, Microsoft Windows 7, Microsoft Windows XP Media Center Edition 2005, Microsoft Windows Vista

    Would that be much better than either motherboard? Like which values should i be looking for? Thanks :D


  • #29
    Serephucus
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 7,180 ✭✭✭Serephucus


    Well hang on, what speakers do you have? I only ask because you made mention of it, I assumed you knew what to look for in a sound card.


  • #30
    jaykhunter
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 12,013 ✭✭✭✭jaykhunter


    Nah, fairly clueless at that as well :o I just got Creative T40s (2.0); they're connected via an X-30 docking station; so i guess that's line in from PC. I just need the music i listen to sound as great as i can afford (through the T40s!); i'd likely connect the computer to my TV's surround so there'd need to be an optical out (which is HD)?

    What do you reckon?


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  • #31
    Serephucus
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 7,180 ✭✭✭Serephucus


    Hm, nice speakers actually. I'd reckon on the onboard sound, actually. The X30 has a lot of the features that a dedicated card would have - namely Crystalizer and CMSS-3D.


  • #32
    jaykhunter
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 12,013 ✭✭✭✭jaykhunter


    Man, it's all coming together! Here's what we got so.

    8GB-Kit G.Skill PC3-10667U CL9 €30.59
    ASRock Z68 Pro3 Gen3, Sockel 1155, ATX €103.01
    Intel Core i5-2500K Box, LGA1155 €195.88
    Sapphire HD6870 1G GDDR5 PCI-E DL-DVI-I+SL-DVI-D / HDMI / DP €147.49
    Raidmax Midi-Tower Sagittarius Silver/Black no PSU €57.11
    Crucial M4 64GB SSD 6,4cm (2,5") €98.69
    Total Desktop Cost €632.77
    S&H €30
    with Asus VS228H monitor an extra €132.59
    Total overall cost €795.36

    Not even close to €600... :o

    Use my own HDD (1xIDE, 2xSATA),
    PSU (Termaltake TR2-470)
    Ext. DVD-writer
    Speakers
    Keyboard & Mouse

    Will i need any cables?
    RAM connects to Motherboard
    Motherboard attaches to case
    Processor connects to Motherboard
    Graphics card to motherboard
    Case is....the case
    RAM to case.
    Monitor to Grapihcs card via HDMI

    (Sorry for spelling this out, it's for my sake or if u spot something huge) The rest have their own cables.


  • #33
    partyatmygaff
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 10,992 ✭✭✭✭partyatmygaff


    jaykhunter wrote: »
    Man, it's all coming together! Here's what we got so.

    8GB-Kit G.Skill PC3-10667U CL9 €30.59
    ASRock Z68 Pro3 Gen3, Sockel 1155, ATX €103.01
    Intel Core i5-2500K Box, LGA1155 €195.88
    Sapphire HD6870 1G GDDR5 PCI-E DL-DVI-I+SL-DVI-D / HDMI / DP €147.49
    Raidmax Midi-Tower Sagittarius Silver/Black no PSU €57.11
    Crucial M4 64GB SSD 6,4cm (2,5") €98.69
    Total Desktop Cost €632.77
    S&H €30
    with Asus VS228H monitor an extra €132.59
    Total overall cost €795.36
    Not even close to €600... :o

    Use my own HDD (1xIDE, 2xSATA),
    PSU (Termaltake TR2-470)
    Ext. DVD-writer
    Speakers
    Keyboard & Mouse

    Will i need any cables?
    RAM connects to Motherboard
    Motherboard attaches to case
    Processor connects to Motherboard
    Graphics card to motherboard
    Case is....the case
    RAM to case.
    Monitor to Grapihcs card via HDMI

    (Sorry for spelling this out, it's for my sake or if u spot something huge) The rest have their own cables.
    You may need an IDE-Sata converter. I have that same motherboard and there aren't any IDE ports.


  • #34
    Serephucus
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 7,180 ✭✭✭Serephucus


    Swap these in for CPU and motherboard. With such a tight budget, and only a 6870, there's really no point in going for a 2500K.

    Item|Price
    Total build cost: €249.55 + €30 shipping
    Intel Core i5-2400 Box, LGA1155|€168.98
    ASRock P67 Pro3 SE (B3), Sockel 1155, ATX|€80.57


    Saves you €50.

    You could also sub the case for this. Would save you another €30 (and it's just as good performance-wise too).


  • #35
    partyatmygaff
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 10,992 ✭✭✭✭partyatmygaff


    What's the point in getting a P67 and then getting a locked CPU? He could just drop down to a H61 and save a bit more money.


  • #36
    Serephucus
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 7,180 ✭✭✭Serephucus


    *shrug* I just picked a full ATX board, wasn't really looking at chipset. My bad.


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  • #37
    jaykhunter
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 12,013 ✭✭✭✭jaykhunter


    Cheers party, that's good to know. I might leave the IDE in my current PC so. My sis or someone might want it.

    Thanks Serephucus, is there much difference with the 2500k and 2400k processors? Would the saved €50 be of use somewhere else (staying with the same budget?)

    I really like the saggitarius case rather than it's performance so i gotta keep it :o

    edit : wait, should i stick with the 2500/Z68 combo?


  • #38
    partyatmygaff
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 10,992 ✭✭✭✭partyatmygaff


    An i5-2400 (Note the lack of a K) is a locked CPU. Effectively, with Sandybridge CPUs the only way you can overclock is if you have a P67/Z68 (Perhaps a H67...) motherboard and an unlocked CPU such as the i5-2500k.

    If you don't want to overclock, get a locked CPU such as the i5-2400 and a H61. If you want to overclock, get a P67/Z68 and an i5-2500K.

    BTW, when I refer to "locked" I mean locked multiplier. In the past, most CPUs had locked multipliers (Saving for €1000+ super CPUs) and overclocking used to be done primarily through tweaking the FSB (Either through the BIOS or a pinmod).

    Nowadays, it's gotten trivially easy. You just change the multiplier and you're done.


  • #39
    jaykhunter
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 12,013 ✭✭✭✭jaykhunter


    That's very helpful man. Yeah i'd like to try overclocking. Besides ports connecting internal HDDs and USB ports, is there much difference between the P67 and Z68? There's about €22 difference.

    Like is the graphics "Intel HD Graphics 3000" for people not buying a graphics card? I assume the HDMI port in my build will be unused?
    What's this Max Allocated RAM size (1759MB)?

    About SSDs - do they come with a SATA cable? Are Crucial M4 the best ones? (it's just that 60GB isn't that much space after windows/office/my programs are installed - or should only games be installed to that drive?)


  • #40
    Eboggles
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 1,600 ✭✭✭Eboggles


    jaykhunter wrote: »
    That's very helpful man. Yeah i'd like to try overclocking. Besides ports connecting internal HDDs and USB ports, is there much difference between the P67 and Z68? There's about €22 difference.

    Like is the graphics "Intel HD Graphics 3000" for people not buying a graphics card? I assume the HDMI port in my build will be unused?
    What's this Max Allocated RAM size (1759MB)?

    About SSDs - do they come with a SATA cable? Are Crucial M4 the best ones? (it's just that 60GB isn't that much space after windows/office/my programs are installed - or should only games be installed to that drive?)
    If I were you I'd still buy a z68/ p67 board, which would alow you to upgrade to a new unlocked cpu (ivy?) later on in the year so you'd have a nice machine.

    The intel HD 3000 graphics are just used for people who don't game or need a discrete graphics card. As far as integrated graphics go, its fairly good. Means nothing though as you're using the 6870. I wouldn't worry about max allocated RAM size, it doesn't look too important (i haven't got a clue :D).

    Crucial M4 aren't the fastest, but are the top choice because of their stability and reliability. Windows and the most used programs (Photoshop, browser etc) should be installed onto the SSD, it wouldn't make much difference while gaming. When you're installing windows, BTW, you should remember to unplug all hard drives except the SSD so everything installs on the SSD, a mate of mine didn't and as a result his boots up slightly slower but still you'd want as much speed as you can get, why else are you getting an SSD?


  • #41
    Completionist
    Registered Users Posts: 1,115 ✭✭✭Completionist


    Would this not be a better SSD? It is a decent amount faster, And not that much more expensive.

    Samsung: 520 MBps (read) / 160 MBps (write)
    Crucial: 415 MBps (read) / 95 MBps (write)


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  • #42
    jaykhunter
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 12,013 ✭✭✭✭jaykhunter


    Thanks for that mate. Would there be much difference gaming/video editing between a regular internal SATA drive and the SSD? I heard it was quite noticeable.

    If you guys can vouch for the Samsung SSD, seems like a slam dunk! Whatever happens all in I can't go beyond €800; including free up €22 with the P67.


  • #43
    Eboggles
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 1,600 ✭✭✭Eboggles


    jaykhunter wrote: »
    Thanks for that mate. Would there be much difference gaming/video editing between a regular internal SATA drive and the SSD? I heard it was quite noticeable.

    If you guys can vouch for the Samsung SSD, seems like a slam dunk! Whatever happens all in I can't go beyond €800; including free up €22 with the P67.

    Makes next to no difference while gaming, at least for the space that's needed. I've never used that Samsung drive, but all I know is that the M4 is brilliant, the new firmware updates have speeded up even further!


  • #44
    Eboggles
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 1,600 ✭✭✭Eboggles


    Total build cost: €654.54 + €30 shipping
    8GB-Kit G.Skill PC3-10667U CL9 €30.59
    ASRock P67 Pro3 (B3), Sockel 1155, ATX €84.65
    Intel Core i3-2100 Box, LGA1155 €103.42
    Raidmax Midi-Tower Sagittarius silber/schwarz ohne Netzteil €57.11
    Sapphire HD6870 1G GDDR5 PCI-E DL-DVI-I+SL-DVI-D / HDMI / DP €147.49
    ASUS VS228H €132.59
    Crucial M4 64GB SSD 6,4cm (2,5") €98.69

    I know it's a bit late for a whole build, but if you were to drop to an i3 while still keeping a p67 board, you could save some money now AND be able to upgrade to the ivybridge i5 2500k equivalent, and overclock that. The i3 is a good chip for it's price, great gaming performance, the difference between it and the i5 2500k is seen here, bear in mind nearly €100 difference.
    Just an idea.


  • #45
    Monotype
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 6,710 ✭✭✭Monotype


    Completionist wrote: »
    Would this not be a better SSD? It is a decent amount faster, And not that much more expensive.

    Samsung: 520 MBps (read) / 160 MBps (write)
    Crucial: 415 MBps (read) / 95 MBps (write)

    Crucial's read is up to 500MBps with recent firmware (and does better reads for sequential incompressible data). However, prices have been climbing up like mad over the past few months (probably increased demand due to hard drive shortage, people running away from Sandforce drives and Intel + Corsair buying up the Marvell controllers) so the Samsung looks like a good buy and has good reviews. Not the best everywhere but it certainly looks like a 'solid', reliable drive.


  • #46
    jaykhunter
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 12,013 ✭✭✭✭jaykhunter


    Eboggles wrote: »
    SSD Makes next to no difference while gaming, at least for the space that's needed. I've never used that Samsung drive, but all I know is that the M4 is brilliant, the new firmware updates have speeded up even further!

    Woah! Then for that money i could get like a 1-1.5 TB internal SATA drive! What's the hubbub about SSDs? does it make video rendering faster; like what's the point if they're not gonna make a performance difference?

    Impressed with the i3 but i think i'd like to keep the i5 -- what could that equivalent if i overclock it?

    Cheers for all the help :)


  • #47
    Serephucus
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 7,180 ✭✭✭Serephucus


    While Eboggles is right, his comment was sort of misleading.

    SSDs will only really speed up loading times in games, so they don't do much. Where they are very effective, is boot and shutdown time (probably about 20 second boot up, give or take), as well as much faster application opening, and general snappyness. That's why most people put their browsers, media players, editors, etc. on the SSD. Basically all of their non-game apps.

    I personally find it wonderful to have Chrome launch instantly after clicking its shortcut, rather than waiting a second or two like normal. It doesn't sound like much, but it's a huge difference; it just makes your computer feel like it's a lot more responsive, etc.


  • #48
    greenheart
    Registered Users Posts: 119 ✭✭greenheart


    Hey jaykhunter
    My son just got the raidmax case with his build for Christmas. I wanted to get him something a bIt flashy instead Of plain black. Was really surprised when it arrived, wasn't expecting it to be as nice, It reminds me of a transformer, he has a transformer wallpaper on his monitor and it looks cool!
    If you want I could post a few detailed pics of it to help you decide.
    Let me know.


  • #49
    jaykhunter
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 12,013 ✭✭✭✭jaykhunter


    Serephucus - Cool, i'll stick with the SSD so. It sounds awesome. Plus having applications opening when I click them would be wonderful; as opposed to waiting 15 seconds for iTunes to open. 60GB isn't that much space - after installing windows 7 and the programs it'd probably be about 40 GB.

    eBoggles suggested a slightly different mobo -- the ASRock P67 Pro3 (B3), Sockel 1155, ATX; as opposed to the ASRock P67 Pro3 SE (B3), Sockel 1155, ATX . They look identical but the SE is a few quid cheaper; the only difference i can find is the SE says "Compliant Standards - High Definition Audio" as well. You guys have any preferences one way or the other?

    Greenheart - ha, sounds good. Always wanted a flashy case. Sure post some links to pics if u have 'em :pac:


  • #50
    Serephucus
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 7,180 ✭✭✭Serephucus


    The SE gives you Crossfire support, where the non-SE gives you more PCI/PCIe-x1 slots.


  • #51
    Monotype
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 6,710 ✭✭✭Monotype


    But the second PCI-E slot only runs at x4 - i.e., much less bandwidth for your cards, so not a great choice for crossfire. This will affect limit higher end cards more. Also the non-SE has an eSATA port which is useful for external hard drives.


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