My new Gaming Rig...

[AstaLaVista]

My question is 2 fold...

First, a neighbor friend of mine needs to upgrade his 4 or 5 yr old Dell PC, he does a lot of photo & video editing as well as music editing , we got to talking and I told him we might be able to help each other.

What do you think that I could sell the following components to him for? I am not looking to dupe him but I also don't want to end up losing money myself.

Ultra Aluminus Case with 2 120mm fans and 1 80mm fan
Thermaltake ToughPower 600w PSU
EVGA 680i SLI motherboard
Intel CPU E7200 w/ Artic Pro 7 Cooler
4GB OCZ SLI 1066mhz (PC-8500) RAM
ECS 8800 GT 512MB w/Accelero S1+S2 passive HS
640GB HDD 7200.10 16mb cache
USB 5 into 1 card reader/floppy combo
CD/DVD/r/w/dl

In other words, I would be giving him my rig, sans the EVGA GTX260 Video Card. How much would you guy pay for it?

Now onto more pressing matters. If I do sell him my rig, I would be looking for:

Motherboard
CPU
CPU Cooler
RAM
CD/DVD/r/w
5 into 1 reader or better

I already got the case & PSU, also, I will be using a 150GB Velociraptor + a Samsung 750GB for storage.

Last board I bought was the EVGA 680i and since then, I have not read or look to the new ones. I have heard that there are some boards capable of DDR2 & DDR3 ram? I honestly don't want TOP of the LINE, a couple of notches down would be just fine.
I also don't want to over spend, I would gladly use the money from the sale of my other rig to purchase the components I will be missing for this one.

Keeping in mind that my main thing is Gaming (First Person Shooters to be more precised)... what would you go with? I am hoping to get personal opinions here. I want a rig that lets me upgrade and that could last me another good 2 or 3 years.

Thanks fellas

I forgot to mention that I much rather go with an Intel CPU since I have never used AMD before.

 

[sygnus21]

Hello AstaLaVista,

You need to consider a few things in determining the sale price of your used computer -Hardware, software, age of components, price paid, person buying the computer - are they a gamer or casual user. A gamer may understand why you bought a $500 video card and be willing to negotiate, a casual user may not.

I've always found it difficult selling used systems because the price is usually almost always less than half of what I paid. And with computer prices constantly falling the question has to be asked - can I get a new comparable computer for the asking price of your used one? Take these into consideration and you should be able figure out a fair price. A little bit of homework goes a long way - even in selling.

As to building a new system, I would first come up with a budget on how much I'm willing to spend on a new rig. Then I would do some on-line price comparisons on the items I wish to get, put the rig together on paper, and go from there.

I'm not sure about a DDR2/3 combo MB’s but I'd choose on or the other. There are plenty of good DDR2 MB's around and prices are cheap...but the boards are getting old. Since you say you want your new system to last 2-3 years I’d seriously consider a DDR3 setup, especially when you consider that prices on DDR3 has dropped a lot.


Just my two cents.

 

[AstaLaVista]

Thanks sygnus, as explained above, the neighbor is not into heavy gaming, he does play arcade games he says, he is most into heavy video & photo editing, which, I would think need a good video card and my gaming card can easily do that and then some. My components are fairly new (less than 1 yr to less than 2).

I am considering using the same amount of money I could get from the rig I am selling to buy the few components I need to build the new rig, considering of course, that I already have the other components. I am thinking I am giving more stuff away than I am going to be buying from that money.

I still think that DDR3 is over the top and/or over priced. also, if you see my rig now, I am content with it sans a few changes I was going to do (Case & PSU), so I am really not looking for Extremely High-End stuff.

Again, I don't want to dupe the guy but since I know what I am giving him and I usually help him with his PC problems for FREE, I find it easier to work with and a Plus for him... as bad as that sounds.

I love my EVGA mobo, I could easily get another one but, since new stuff is coming out, I know I have to elevate to the latest mobo capable of handling the best DDR2 Ram out there.

I have began to read between Intel & Nvidia chipsets but, as always, I get more confused than when I started reading on them, hence the need for a little savvy fellas help.

I have heard that Quad Cores are not really good for games since none of the games really push the cores that much... is that true? if so, I would be looking for a Good & Capable Duo Core instead.

I guess what I am looking for is some options to what I should choose (ie: Asus Rampage Formula, EVGA 780i, DDR2 compatible though.)

Sorry to be seem like a pest to you guys but I usually find the choosing to be the hardest thing for me to do. Once I am settled between a couple or few choices, I can better make my mind

P.S.: I just found this one at buy.com for cheap... what do you guys think?

http://www.buy.com/prod/evga-nforce-780i-sli-ftw-775-a1-motherboard/q/loc/101/208400712.html

 

[sygnus21]

Questions:

Do you have an idea on what you would be willing to sell that system for? Is your neighbor willing to pay that price? If not, how low would you go?

I built my current system about a year and a half ago for about $1900 (minus software and peripheals) dollars. If I sold it today, I’d be lucky if I got $1300-1400 for it…and that’s with upgrades doe since then.

Now compare this system (my wish list) –
Intel MB – DX58SO – $278
Intel Processor – Quad Core i7940 – $600
6 Corsair RAM- TR3X6G1600C8D – $290
2x WD HD (750Gig) – $200
Antec 850 PS – $180
Video card - $300

Equals = $1848 - As you can see I’m at the high end with my wish list and those prices are 3-4 months old!

So - would I buy a used computer for 13-14 hundred bucks when I can get the above system for a little more money? Probably not. That’s what you’re facing.

And bear in mind that I can save even more money by keeping my system and upgrading it as I would not have to purchase HD's or upgrade my video card anytime soon.

I think you need to look at those factors and decide accordingly. It may be better (and cheaper) for you do an upgrade as opposed to selling and starting over from scratch; then just sell the components you don’t need any more. I think it would be cheaper in the long run.

If you’re going to stick with DDR2 for the next 2-3 years, then I’d get a good quality performance DDR2 MB. Something to think about – will the board still be supported? Upgradeable? Gaming Performance down the road?

Duo Core VS Quad Core – This is highly opinionated and one I'm not prepared to debate. I will say that games and other software are and have been developed with Quads in mind.

I chose a quad core and multi-task a lot. I'll sometimes run Photoshop while listening to iTunes while at the same time surfacing the net, or, sometimes I’ll game while iTunes is running and suffer no noticeable effects. Personally, I’d look to get a quad. You can find great deals on an Intel Quad Core Q6600 (considering you want to stay with DDR2 board).

As far as motherboard recommendations, I’m not really one to ask as my last 4 MB’s have been Intel. I don’t do a lot of tweaking or over clocking and instead opt for stability. However I do hear good things about ASUS boards, but I couldn’t tell you much about them other than they over clock extremely well.

Things I consider when building a system is how far do I want to be behind, upgradability, quality, price to performance, and reliability.

Recommendations - My component choices are limited to brands - Intel, ATI, Western Digital, Corsair, and I usually do research prior to making my final purchase decision.

What I normally do search for forums dealing with particular item I’m interested in and see what’s being said about it, paying close attention to issues that may be problematic. From there I make my decision; plus I have a better understanding of how to deal with a problem should one arise.

I write this long winded explanation to hopefully get you to think about your choices. Sorry I can’t be of more help than that.

 

[AstaLaVista]

Thanks sygnus21, I do understand what you are saying so, let me put the question another way.

Would my neighbor be able to find a similar or better package than the one I would be offering for say $ 600.00 dollars?

If the price seems reasonable and both parties agree, what would be your choice of Mobo/CPU/RAM combination keeping in mind that I don't want to go with DDR3 but keep using DDR2?

I have heard only good things with the latest intel chipsets but I don't know if that is for DDR3 or also DDR2.

 

[sygnus21]

For that system probably not.

 

[AstaLaVista]

Is there such a site that lets you compare motherboards side by side? I have done the next best thing. I have checked on the Gamng Forum what you guys have and I will make my decision based on it but I need to see what benfits me better :D

As far as Ram, I have opted for the Corsair Dominator... seems to be the better of them all.

As for the CPU, well, you only live once so I'll go with a Quad core Q6600 or similar.

 

[smarteyeball]

For the sale price, you can always use your current specs to source current prices. $500-600 for everything if bought new sounds about right.

ASUS mobos are great boards. Once you tame them

+1 for going a quad. If your budget allows, look at the Q9xxx series.

 

[AstaLaVista]

For the sale price, you can always use your current specs to source current prices. $500-600 for everything if bought new sounds about right.

ASUS mobos are great boards. Once you tame them

+1 for going a quad. If your budget allows, look at the Q9xxx series.

The guys has given me the ok, it took only one look from him and he was SOLD. I showed him how good he could play COD4 and that's all it took :D

The game is ON now

Are the benefits between the Q6600 and Q9xx series that Huge? how can you compare it during a heavy battle in a game? 1 to 5 FPS diff or more like 5 to 10? give me something tangible.

 

[smarteyeball]

The guys has given me the ok, it took only one look from him and he was SOLD. I showed him how good he could play COD4 and that's all it took :D

The game is ON now

lol

give me something tangible.

Say please

The advantage of a Q9xx over a Q6600 is that it has a higher L2 cache and runs cooler. I don't think there is really too much difference (if any) in regards to a higher FPS. It's at least %10 quicker with encoding etc though.

If the price difference isn't all that great, go the Q9xx. Otherwise stick with the Q6600 and overclock it. Either way you'll be fine for games.

 

[sygnus21]

The Q6600 is 65mm chip, and I believe Q9xx is 45mm chip and also newer. The Q6600 is touted for it overclocking ability which makes it still highly sought after. I can't say how the Q9xx stacks up in terms of overclocking, but again, its a newer, smaller, cooler chip.

Since you say you want to stay with a DDR2 board, I'd make sure I got a good MB and pair it with a Q9xx series chip. But...because I'm too lazy to look it up, you'll need to check that the Q9xx chip can be supported by a DDR2 MB.

 

[AstaLaVista]

give me something tangible.

Say please

The advantage of a Q9xx over a Q6600 is that it has a higher L2 cache and runs cooler. I don't think there is really too much difference (if any) in regards to a higher FPS. It's at least %10 quicker with encoding etc though.

If the price difference isn't all that great, go the Q9xx. Otherwise stick with the Q6600 and overclock it. Either way you'll be fine for games.

Yes, sorry for my rudeness, got a little carried away and anxious... my apologies!

I will consider this if the price difference is minimum.

The Q6600 is 65mm chip, and I believe Q9xx is 45mm chip and also newer. The Q6600 is touted for it overclocking ability which makes it still highly sought after. I can't say how the Q9xx stacks up in terms of overclocking, but again, its a newer, smaller, cooler chip.

Since you say you want to stay with a DDR2 board, I'd make sure I got a good MB and pair it with a Q9xx series chip. But...because I'm too lazy to look it up, you'll need to check that the Q9xx chip can be supported by a DDR2 MB.

Argghhhh, you make me work again sygnus21, something I really hate to do but... I'll check it out for sure and since the neighbor told me he is in no hurry, I think I'll take my time and do it right.

This is frustrating and nice at the same time, I feel like a kid in a candy store. On the one hand, I got the money to buy what I want, on the other hand... there's just to many options to choose from :D

Decisiveness is not one of my virtues

 

[smarteyeball]

The Q6600 is 65mm chip, and I believe Q9xx is 45mm chip and also newer. The Q6600 is touted for it overclocking ability which makes it still highly sought after. I can't say how the Q9xx stacks up in terms of overclocking, but again, its a newer, smaller, cooler chip.

you'll need to check that the Q9xx chip can be supported by a DDR2 MB.

Yep. Q6600 65nm - Q9xx 45nm. The Q6600 is a great overclocker, but the Q9xx overclock just as nicely. I've got my Q9550 @ 3.6 with room for more if I really wanted to. And yes, the Q9xx are supported by most DDR2 MB. Some older boards may need a BIOS update to accomadate 45nm.

Yes, sorry for my rudeness, got a little carried away and anxious... my apologies!

lol, now worries mate

To help you decide on components, your best bet would be to trawl through some overclocking forums to get an idea of what others are you using and match what you think you'll need / want.

Personally I would (and did) pay the extra $80ish for the Q9550 over the Q6600. The Q6600 is still a great chip, but is getting a little long in the tooth tech wise.

As for mobos, you have to decide whether your going to stay single Video card or go SLI etc. That narrows down the field right there

 

[sygnus21]

Yep. Q6600 65nm - Q9xx 45nm. The Q6600 is a great overclocker, but the Q9xx overclock just as nicely. I've got my Q9550 @ 3.6 with room for more if I really wanted to. And yes, the Q9xx are supported by most DDR2 MB. Some older boards may need a BIOS update to accomadate 45nm.

To help you decide on components, your best bet would be to trawl through some overclocking forums to get an idea of what others are you using and match what you think you'll need / want.

Personally I would (and did) pay the extra $80ish for the Q9550 over the Q6600. The Q6600 is still a great chip, but is getting a little long in the tooth tech wise.

As for mobos, you have to decide whether your going to stay single Video card or go SLI etc. That narrows down the field right there

Though I have a Q6600 I have to agree with smarteyeball here. If I were building a DDR2 system now and it supported one of the 45nm chips, I'd get one of those. Remember, you're wanting your system to last at least 2 years.

Here's a quick comparison between the Q9000 and Q6000 series:

Q6000 Series 65nm
8MB Cache
1066MHz FSB
SSE3, SSE2, SSE

Q9000 Series 45nm
12/6 MB Cache (Depending on chip)
1333MHz FSB
SSE4, SSE3, SSE2, SSE

 

[AstaLaVista]

Everytime I think I am almost ready to pull the pin, you guys pull me way the hell out there... not that I am complaining mind you

Even though I am not wanting to do SLI at the moment, that would be a nice upgrade in a year so, YES, I am looking for that option on the Motherboard.

I more or less know what Cache does but not the SSE part... more read time I guess :D

I'll go check the Overclocker forums and see what they got but, one thing I have learn as well is that those guys buy those Monster rig just for braggin rights and even though I will try to Overclock my stuff, I almost never do it until I am seriously lacking performance in the games I play.

I think that Games, for the most part, won't push the boundaries of a good DDR2 setup, less so when all we are seeing as of late are Console Ports and not straight PC games so going DDR3 is not doable until close to 2 years from now and I'll be ready by then.

So, the only thing I am missing at the moment is the decision on the Mobo since RAM is already taken cared off and CPU will depend on the price of the Mobo.

Am I to assume that the Corsair Dominator is pretty much compatible with all the High End Mobos or should I wait and buy that last.

Ohhh, the pressure and headaches are astronomical... I have not been able to sleep because of it

I use Pricegrabber & Nextag to check prices online, any other online site I should visit to try to get the best prices?

 

[sygnus21]

I more or less know what Cache does but not the SSE part... more read time I guess :D

Am I to assume that the Corsair Dominator is pretty much compatible with all the High End Mobos or should I wait and buy that last.

I wouln't worry about the SSE extensions as that won't affect you. I just listed them to say the processor has extra extensions.

Yes! Corsair's Dominator series RAM is very good. I use them myself

 

[thepizzaman]

hm on the subject of ram...... my wondering...... is out of these 4 which is better?
Patriot Extreme 4096MB Dual Channel PC6400 DDR2 800MHz Memory (2 x 2048MB) PDC24G6400ELK at TigerDirect.com

Corsair Dual Channel TWINX 4096MB PC6400 DDR2 800MHz Memory (2 x 2048MB) TWIN2X4096-6400C5 at TigerDirect.com

Patriot Dual Channel Viper 4096MB PC6400 DDR2 800MHz Memory (2 x 2048MB) PVS24G6400LLK at TigerDirect.com

OCZ Reaper Dual Channel 4096MB PC6400 DDR2 800MHz Memory (2 x 2048MB) OCZ2RPR8004GK at TigerDirect.com

 

[AstaLaVista]

Well, I had two options to go and once I did a little reading on them found two things I dislike about it but, hopefully, there is a remedy for it.

EVGA 780i SLI FTW... seems like a good board, 3-way SLI support (for future upgrades) 3 PCIe x 16, great OC board.

Cons... NB cooler is crap and blows hot air on your video card. My EVGA GTX260 runs hot as it is, I don't need help in that dept. Only supports up to 1066mhz RAM

ASUS Maximus II formula... another great board, good OC board. Supports up to 1200Mhz RAM

Cons... It doesn't appear to support SLI so this is not a good future upgradeable board.

I was thinking that if I can find a good aftermarket NB cooler for the 780i I would be set... care to give me a few pointers there?

I think I'll go with the Q9400 or up to the Q9650... any major performance gains between the Q9xx series?

I am definately want to go with 8GB's of Corsair Dominator if the board permits it.

 

[thepizzaman]

you gonna run 64 or 32 bit?

 

[AstaLaVista]

Vista X64, hence, the 8GB's