Buyer's Guide II: Extreme, High-End, Mid-Range, Budget, and Entry Level Systems - Part 2

[Mr.Eric]

Hyperthreading don't work like the actual physical cores, your gaming performance will still be around the same. Notably, BattleField 3 performs poorer in fact with it turned on.

What's your monitor resolution?

I'll try to fit everything within budget and if unable to do so then we'll see later..

It's a 18 inch VGA monitor.
1024 x 768 I think.

 

[MoneyHoney]

Just realised got part 2 of this thread ...
Need advice on Graphics card ...

---------

My existing graphics card seems to be giving me problems.

Have been getting white or blue screen of death on and off.
Else, system cannot start (blank screen) with long beep.
If I open the casing and shake shake the card abit, the system works again.

Existing card: PCI-E 2.0 Leadtek PX9600GT 512MB DDR3

Thinking of getting a new card in the $150 - $200.
Nowadays, only got time to play abit of games like Skyrim.

Any recommendation is much appreciated
Thanks!

Sapphire HD 6850 @ $199 maybe? (It's under Christmas offer for Palit and Sapphire, not sure still got anot)

if not maybe can go Graphics Bazaar look for a GTX 460 or HD 5850 around $150-$180.

But looking at ur specs on the right...I think a total overhaul could be required. (Need other pros to confirm)

 

[MoneyHoney]

Hi everyone, I'm looking to get a new gaming rig to replace my dying 4.5 year old laptop. Usage will be mostly movies and games (WoW, D3 when it's released). Can anyone recommend me a setup that will allow me to play on at least High settings?

Budget will be between 1.2-1.5k (the lower the better though ), inclusive of Windows and keyboard; mouse and monitor not required. Not going to overclock too since I'm clueless at it.

I'm thinking of placing the CPU on the floor and would prefer USB3.0 ports at the front if possible (ok to do without if exceed budget). Also would like an all black or black/blue theme.

Btw, would it be possible to get the CPU either tmr or on Sat? I've seen SSDs that require pre-ordering, would it take long before I can get it?

Thanks in advance!

Take a look at what Moneyface has configured earlier.

CPU+MB: Intel Core i5-2320 + ASRock H61M/U3S3 @ $347
RAM: G.Skill NT DDR3-1333 CL9 4GB [Black PCB] X2 @ $50
GPU: Leadtek GTX 560 Ti 1GB OC @ $315 or MSI GTX 560 Ti 1GB TFII @ $328
Comes with free Leadtek USB TV tuner.
If don't want, take MSI card is fine.
HDD: Hitachi Deskstar 7K1000.C 500GB [SATA III] @ $99
ODD: Sony Optiarc 24X CD/DVD Writer @ $29
Sony ODD is better than Samsung/LG.
PSU: Super Flower Amazon 550W [80 Plus Bronze] @ $79
CASE: Xigmatek Asgard XP @ $59
OS: Windows 7 Home Premium @ $110

Total: $1088 or $1101

Promotions in BOLD.

Buy all from PC Themes.

The extra money you can either go upgrade to SSD or get a even better graphics card.

 

[takuyazzz]

Sapphire HD 6850 @ $199 maybe? (It's under Christmas offer for Palit and Sapphire, not sure still got anot)

if not maybe can go Graphics Bazaar look for a GTX 460 or HD 5850 around $150-$180.

But looking at ur specs on the right...I think a total overhaul could be required. (Need other pros to confirm)

his specs are similar to mine, gtx460 or hd5850 will be bottlenecked by the processor..

 

[zephorim]

hi peeps, need recommendation for office rig. buying 3 sets.
do not include monitor/kb/mouse/os

thanks

 

[MoneyFace =p]

It's a 18 inch VGA monitor.
1024 x 768 I think.

CPU+MB: Intel Pentium G840 + ASRock H61M/U3S3 @ $214
RAM: G.Skill NT DDR3-1333 CL9 4GB [Black PCB] @ $25
GPU+PSU: HIS HD 6770 1GB + Super Flower Amazon 550W [80 Plus Bronze] @ $219
HDD: Hitachi Deskstar 7K1000.C 500GB [SATA III] @ $99
ODD: Sony Optiarc 24X CD/DVD Writer [Retail] @ $29
CASE: Xigmatek Asgard XP @ $59
OS: Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium 64-bit [OEM] @ $110

Total: $755

Optional:
GPU: Sapphire HD 6850 1GB @ $199
PSU: Super Flower Amazon 550W [80 Plus Bronze] @ $79

Promotions in BOLD.

Buy all from PC Themes.

Even a GTS 450/HD 5750 can work nice at high-ultra settings at your resolution.
I've chosen something better is due to its much better value (only $8 more from PowerColor HD 6750) and to bridge you in your transition to future monitor upgrade (higher resolution) should your current spoil (very likely due to its age).

Meanwhile, I'll strongly discourage you from getting Core i3 as it only improve gaming performance by average of 7% but cost $47 more. I'd rather you upgrade to an even better graphics card (HD 6850) so that you can maintain your games' detail settings when upgrading monitor as mentioned before. Then you can choose to upgrade to a quad core when majority of games are able to tap on their resources..

 

[MoneyFace =p]

hi peeps, need recommendation for office rig. buying 3 sets.
do not include monitor/kb/mouse/os

thanks

CPU+MB: Intel Celeron G530 + ASRock H61M-HVGS @ $122
RAM: G.Skill NT DDR3-1333 CL9 4GB [Black PCB] @ $25
HDD: Hitachi Deskstar 7K1000.C 500GB [SATA III] @ $109
ODD: Samsung 22X CD/DVD Writer [Retail] @ $24
PSU: FSP Hexa 400W [80 Plus] @ $59
CASE: Xigmatek Asgard XP @ $59

Total: $398

Optional:
CASE: Cooler Master Elite 341
If chassis compartment is small.
Please confirm dimensions before purchase.

Buy all from Tradepac.

Grand Total: $1194

 

[Mr.Eric]

CPU+MB: Intel Pentium G840 + ASRock H61M/U3S3 @ $214
RAM: G.Skill NT DDR3-1333 CL9 4GB [Black PCB] @ $25
GPU+PSU: HIS HD 6770 1GB + Super Flower Amazon 550W [80 Plus Bronze] @ $219
HDD: Hitachi Deskstar 7K1000.C 500GB [SATA III] @ $99
ODD: Sony Optiarc 24X CD/DVD Writer [Retail] @ $29
CASE: Xigmatek Asgard XP @ $59
OS: Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium 64-bit [OEM] @ $110

Total: $755

Optional:
GPU: Sapphire HD 6850 1GB @ $199
PSU: Super Flower Amazon 550W [80 Plus Bronze] @ $79

Promotions in BOLD.

Buy all from PC Themes.

Even a GTS 450/HD 5750 can work nice at high-ultra settings at your resolution.
I've chosen something better is due to its much better value (only $8 more from PowerColor HD 6750) and to bridge you in your transition to future monitor upgrade (higher resolution) should your current spoil (very likely due to its age).

Meanwhile, I'll strongly discourage you from getting Core i3 as it only improve gaming performance by average of 7% but cost $47 more. I'd rather you upgrade to an even better graphics card (HD 6850) so that you can maintain your games' detail settings when upgrading monitor as mentioned before. Then you can choose to upgrade to a quad core when majority of games are able to tap on their resources..

Thanks for your reply. So you are recommending a i5 core right? If I sub in a i5 core it will cost extra $100+ I guess. Will consider on that, thanks again.

 

[MoneyFace =p]

Thanks for your reply. So you are recommending a i5 core right? If I sub in a i5 core it will cost extra $100+ I guess. Will consider on that, thanks again.

Nonono, i mean change to a quad core next time in the future after getting this...

 

[Mr.Eric]

Think I will just put in extra $$ to get a quad core haha. A hassle to upgrade it next time.

 

[clareclareclare]

Take a look at what Moneyface has configured earlier.



The extra money you can either go upgrade to SSD or get a even better graphics card.

Ah thanks for your help!

I'm thinking of getting an SSD though, how much more will that cost? And what options do I have for graphics card? Sorry i'm quite a noob at computer parts..

Moneyface got any suggestions what I can upgrade from that setup?

 

[MoneyFace =p]

Ah thanks for your help!

I'm thinking of getting an SSD though, how much more will that cost? And what options do I have for graphics card? Sorry i'm quite a noob at computer parts..

Moneyface got any suggestions what I can upgrade from that setup?

Actually your requirements are pretty moderate, i.e You can spend even lower than $1200 for the parts...

It'll depend how much capacity you want from SSD. 60 GB can install 1-2 games with other essential programs like Office, iTunes, etc.. 60 GB @ $149, 120 GB @ $239.

 

[MoneyFace =p]

Hi everyone, I'm looking to get a new gaming rig to replace my dying 4.5 year old laptop. Usage will be mostly movies and games (WoW, D3 when it's released). Can anyone recommend me a setup that will allow me to play on at least High settings?

Budget will be between 1.2-1.5k (the lower the better though ), inclusive of Windows and keyboard; mouse and monitor not required. Not going to overclock too since I'm clueless at it.

I'm thinking of placing the CPU on the floor and would prefer USB3.0 ports at the front if possible (ok to do without if exceed budget). Also would like an all black or black/blue theme.

Btw, would it be possible to get the CPU either tmr or on Sat? I've seen SSDs that require pre-ordering, would it take long before I can get it?

Thanks in advance!

CPU+MB: Intel Core i5-2320 + ASRock H61M/U3S3 @ $347
Actually you don't even need quad core.
RAM: G.Skill NT DDR3-1333 CL9 4GB [Black PCB] X2 @ $50
GPU: Sapphire HD 6850 1GB @ $199
Can max Diablo 3 on Full HD.
SSD: Memoright FTM Plus 120GB [SATA III] @ $239 (Commerztech)
Offer ends 31 Dec 2011. Could be OOS, call to check for availability.
HDD: Hitachi Deskstar 7K1000.C 500GB [SATA III] @ $99
ODD: Sony Optiarc 24X CD/DVD Writer [Retail] @ $29
PSU: Super Flower Amazon 550W [80 Plus Bronze] @ $79
CASE: Xigmatek Asgard Pro @ $79
OS: Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium 64-bit [OEM] @ $110
KB: Microsoft SideWinder X4 [Red LED Backlight] @ $69 (Fuwell)

Total: $1300

Optional:
GPU: Leadtek GTX 560 1GB OC @ $245
GPU: Leadtek GTX 560 Ti 1GB OC @ $315
Offer ends 31 Dec 2011.
Comes with free Leadtek USB TV tuner.
GPU: MSI GTX 560 Ti 1GB Twin Frozr II @ $325

Promotions in BOLD.

Buy all unspecified from PC Themes.

You can get a USB 3.0 converter and cable to route one of the rear I/O USB 3.0 port to the chassis port such as this:

http://www.monoprice.com/products/p...=10314&cs_id=1031403&p_id=8163&seq=1&format=2

 

[WhatsYourWish]

Anyone know does simlim still have stock for Dell ST2320L monitor?

Good to go le? My friend final decision.

CPU+MB: Intel Pentium G840 + ASRock H61M/U3S3 @ $203
RAM: G.Skill NT DDR3-1333 CL9 4GB [Black PCB] x2 @ $50
GPU: Leadtek GTX 560 1GB OC @ $240
HDD: Hitachi Deskstar 7K1000.C 500GB [SATA III] @ $99
ODD: Sony Optiarc 24X CD/DVD Writer [Retail] @ $28
PSU: Super Flower Amazon 550W [80 Plus Bronze] @ $78
CASE: NZXT Tempest 410 Elite @ $130
OS: Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium 64-bit [OEM] @ $110

Total: $938

 

[MoneyFace =p]

Anyone know does simlim still have stock for Dell ST2320L monitor?

Good to go le? My friend final decision.

CPU+MB: Intel Pentium G840 + ASRock H61M/U3S3 @ $203
RAM: G.Skill NT DDR3-1333 CL9 4GB [Black PCB] x2 @ $50
GPU: Leadtek GTX 560 1GB OC @ $240
HDD: Hitachi Deskstar 7K1000.C 500GB [SATA III] @ $99
ODD: Sony Optiarc 24X CD/DVD Writer [Retail] @ $28
PSU: Super Flower Amazon 550W [80 Plus Bronze] @ $78
CASE: NZXT Tempest 410 Elite @ $130
OS: Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium 64-bit [OEM] @ $110

Total: $938

Get ASUS ML239H from PC Themes bah.

Good to go, NZXT Hades he doesn't like??

Nicer looking IMO...

 

[Microstar]

Hi all, just wondering about Bizgram prices. I'm looking at Asus Rampage IV Extreme + Intel i7 3960x. The listed price for Bizgram is $1992 while PCT & Fuwell have them for $2055. My question is, is it safe to by from Bizgram and why the significant price difference?

 

[WhatsYourWish]

Get ASUS ML239H from PC Themes bah.

Good to go, NZXT Hades he doesn't like??

Nicer looking IMO...

Will get ASUS ML239H if ST2320L OOS.

He prefer NZXT Tempest 410 Elite.

Thanks for the advise.

 

[clareclareclare]

Thanks for your help MoneyFace!

I'll be going for the following setup:

CPU+MB: Intel Core i5-2320 + ASRock H61M/U3S3 @ $347
RAM: G.Skill NT DDR3-1333 CL9 4GB [Black PCB] X2 @ $50
GPU: MSI GTX 560 Ti 1GB Twin Frozr II @ $325
SSD: Memoright FTM Plus 60GB [SATA III] @ $149 (Commerztech) <--?
HDD: Hitachi Deskstar 7K1000.C 500GB [SATA III] @ $99
ODD: Sony Optiarc 24X CD/DVD Writer [Retail] @ $29
PSU: Super Flower Amazon 550W [80 Plus Bronze] @ $79
CASE: Xigmatek Asgard Pro @ $79
OS: Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium 64-bit [OEM] @ $110
KB: Microsoft SideWinder X4 [Red LED Backlight] @ $69 (Fuwell)

Total: $1336

Picking the GTX560Ti cos I'd be using the rig for at least the next 3-4 years (hopefully), so I'll get the better one available.

Also reducing the SSD to 60GB cos I won't be installing much to it, mostly using it as a Windows/Office/essential stuff drive. The 60GB version is from Commerztech too right?

Is this setup good to go? I'll be looking to get it these few days. Oh btw, any backup chassis to recommend in case the Asgard Pro isn't available?

 

[MoneyFace =p]

Thanks for your help MoneyFace!

I'll be going for the following setup:

CPU+MB: Intel Core i5-2320 + ASRock H61M/U3S3 @ $347
RAM: G.Skill NT DDR3-1333 CL9 4GB [Black PCB] X2 @ $50
GPU: MSI GTX 560 Ti 1GB Twin Frozr II @ $325
SSD: Memoright FTM Plus 60GB [SATA III] @ $149 (Commerztech) <--?
HDD: Hitachi Deskstar 7K1000.C 500GB [SATA III] @ $99
ODD: Sony Optiarc 24X CD/DVD Writer [Retail] @ $29
PSU: Super Flower Amazon 550W [80 Plus Bronze] @ $79
CASE: Xigmatek Asgard Pro @ $79
OS: Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium 64-bit [OEM] @ $110
KB: Microsoft SideWinder X4 [Red LED Backlight] @ $69 (Fuwell)

Total: $1336

Picking the GTX560Ti cos I'd be using the rig for at least the next 3-4 years (hopefully), so I'll get the better one available.

Also reducing the SSD to 60GB cos I won't be installing much to it, mostly using it as a Windows/Office/essential stuff drive. The 60GB version is from Commerztech too right?

Is this setup good to go? I'll be looking to get it these few days. Oh btw, any backup chassis to recommend in case the Asgard Pro isn't available?

Commerztech is just to the right of Bell Systems, very near to the escalator...

Cooler Master Elite 311 Plus....

 

[jshares]

Wish to seek advice from rigging masters here:
I need a new rig that can accommodate the following:
1. Adobe Photoshop & Video-editing using Premiere Pro.
2. 3D modelling using Maya or 3ds Max.
3. Low power consumption & Cooling efficiency as 3D/Video rendering can take a long time.

I was looking at 1st page of this thread and I can't decide to go for high end or mid range.

I hope to keep it within $2K so that I can have some extra cash to get a 120hz monitor keeping everything below $2.5K

Thank You masters in advance.