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[black_vegeta]

which p67 motherboard do you guys recommend? I'm looking at these: Biostar TP67XE, Gigabyte UD4 or Asus P8P67 Pro
i may or may not OC so i want to leave that option open...and i dont want to spend more than $150

Personally I would go wit dat ASUS.

 

[TOAO_Cyrus]

1) Any reason to go with a 6990 over two 6970s?

Theres really no reason to get a 6990 unless you need the space for something else or want to eventually get two of them for quadfire.

 

[TheExodu5]

So you promoted a 2500 whatever model in order to get a higher number of cores. Right. Then, we'll see if the games I want to play (or the majority of them in the next two years) will be heavily CPU dependant and if they will actually be implmented with multi-core design in mind (that means, more than 2). If it's the case, then I'd be ready to fold the proposal and go for a 2500 model.

However, this i3 supports multi-threading, allowing the user to rely on 4 cores just like with a i5. I agree there is a difference in raw power but then, the number of cores is less of an issue. Right ?

Hyper threading tends to give about 15% of a performance increase, whereas doubling your cores gives you 100% of a performance increase, just to put things into perspective.

But yeah, it depends on the games you want to play.

Still, given that the CPU is basically going to determine the lifespan of your PC (as the GPU is far more likely upgrade), skimping on the CPU is not a good idea.

 

[·feist·]

Nothing like paying relatively high shipping costs, and then watching your order sit in the same warehouse for days without being processed.

 

[TOAO_Cyrus]

so i need some clarity here:

-sandy bridge can process graphical instructions and help your gpu?
-these new AMD FX chips do NOT have any ability to process graphical instructions?
-the fewer-cored bulldozer AMD chips with the built-in radeon 6000's CAN process graphical instructions and help your GPU? but are only for laptops for now?

The integrated GPU on Sandy Bridge is not used for graphics unless your motherboard has an video out built in and you are not using a discrete GPU. Its not really different than having traditional integrated graphics except the GPU is on the CPU die instead of the north bridge. AMD has a mode called hybride-crossfire that allowed you to run your ATi integrated graphics with a discrete GPU, I am not sure if they are planning to add support for bulldozer. The thing is though you need two identical cards for crossfire to work so this is limited it low end offerings. AMD FX chips drop the integrated graphics because they expect you to purchase a powerful discrete card with such a high end CPU. Intel cant do this because they have no discrete solution to pair it with.

 

[Kenka]

Hyper threading tends to give about 15% of a performance increase, whereas doubling your cores gives you 100% of a performance increase, just to put things into perspective.

But yeah, it depends on the games you want to play.

Still, given that the CPU is basically going to determine the lifespan of your PC (as the GPU is far more likely upgrade), skimping on the CPU is not a good idea.

I don't plan on putting some round bucks on the table on the LGA 1155 socket. I am just looking for a cheap and robust option to have USB 3.0 and HDMI output and a capable gaming machine @ 1080p for the next two years.

I'll probably lay some more money on the table in 2013, but again, going entry level at that time will prove to be sufficient for two additional years.

I'll probably follow the 2-years pattern on entry level if something catches my attention. I don't think that high-end hardware is that much needed anymore. Spending once 800 bucks and then 400 each two years is not a bad option according to me.

 

[Commanche Raisin Toast]

The integrated GPU on Sandy Bridge is not used for graphics unless your motherboard has an video out built in and you are not using a discrete GPU. Its not really different than having traditional integrated graphics except the GPU is on the CPU die instead of the north bridge. AMD has a mode called hybride-crossfire that allowed you to run your ATi integrated graphics with a discrete GPU, I am not sure if they are planning to add support for bulldozer. The AMD FX chips drop the integrated graphics because they expect you to purchase a powerful discrete card with such a high end CPU.

i see. that's what i was thinking.

it's also worth noting that unless your graphics card is of a series exactly to, or VERY CLOSE TO the integrated gpu series, hybrid crossfire won't work (or even matter). ie: my integrated HD3200 won't work with the HD4870 i had, and even if it did i would gain no performance.

looks like im sticking with an X6 and overclocking the hell out of it. (with a new heatsink/fan, of course)

 

[·feist·]

so i need some clarity here:

-sandy bridge can process graphical instructions and help your gpu?
-these new AMD FX chips do NOT have any ability to process graphical instructions?
-the fewer-cored bulldozer AMD chips with the built-in radeon 6000's CAN process graphical instructions and help your GPU? but are only for laptops for now?

i'm seeing little reason to go for the 8 cores if the above is true because hardly anything, even games, are using more than 2 cores of CPU's right now. i'd be better off with a 3.2 BE and overclock it and wait. (maybe a 6 core for the better architecture) i don't have intel-tier money at the moment, and my rig right now is pretty competant despite the old CPU and still being on DDR2.

Phenom II X4 920 2.8
4gb DDR2-1066
HD 6850 OC (overclocked out of the box + manual extra overclock)
1080p native resolution monitor, so i only run my games at this res (if at all possible)

so still sticking with my plan to get:
X6 3.2 BE and overclock
new mobo with 16x/16x
8gb DDR3
a second HD 6850 OC for crossfire

At this point in time, I would not go from an X4 to an X6, particularly since you plan on buying a new board and DDR3, anyway. Simply isn't a worthwhile upgrade. Your money would be much better spent on an 1155/AM3+/2011-centered build.

Regarding the bold:
- 1155 Sandy Bridge can only use the iGP with an H67, H61 or Z68 motherboard. P67 is out. There's no provision for hybrid GPU use, only switching between the two when needed.

- Bulldozer 1 chips don't have a graphics component.

- The chips that do have a graphics component (at least initially) are AMD Fusion, which combine the old, non-Bulldozer, CPU architecture with newer iGPs. The initial run of Fusion is very low-end and mainly being used in laptops, portable devices, AIOs, and basic level desktops. Up next is the higher end Fusion parts (like the new FM1 socket), which will be in mid-range products that slot in under Bulldozer 1/AM3+ socket.

FM1 isn't aimed towards you. If you are looking to upgrade, plan on staying with AMD, and don't want an octo-core, you want to try going with a AM3+ quad at the minimum.

 

[Commanche Raisin Toast]

cool.

think i'll go with a nice X4 and figure out a good heatsink/fan that's quieter than the one it comes with. OC it a small bit and crossfire the 6850's. DDR3 and 16x/16x will need a new mobo anyway, but that's not a big deal. my 2.8 isn't BE so i can't OC.

by the time i have the money the quad core FX chips will be out, so maybe i will see how they faired.

 

[Hawk269]

I have an AMD build right now but thinking going with Sandy Bridge. If I do this, other than the CPU and a new Motherboard whatelse do I need to do?

Do I need new ram or can I use my existing Ram?
Do I need to wipe the HDD or can I just plug it in?

Main and only use is for gaming, so what is the best processor in the SB line should I get? I may overclock after I learn more about it, so that is in the future.

My current specs are:
AMD Phenom II Black Edition 965 4x@3.4
Evga GTX - 580
Evga Super Clocked 460/dedicated to Physx
8 Gigs of Ram
Windows 64Bit
Asus MN475ND Motherboard SLI Ready Motherboard
1TB Seagate HDD
Corsair 850W PSU
Asus 24xDVD Drive

Thanks for any help!

 

[Velion]

I have an AMD build right now but thinking going with Sandy Bridge. If I do this, other than the CPU and a new Motherboard whatelse do I need to do?

Do I need new ram or can I use my existing Ram?
Do I need to wipe the HDD or can I just plug it in?

Main and only use is for gaming, so what is the best processor in the SB line should I get? I may overclock after I learn more about it, so that is in the future.

My current specs are:
AMD Phenom II Black Edition 965 4x@3.4
Evga GTX - 580
Evga Super Clocked 460/dedicated to Physx
8 Gigs of Ram
Windows 64Bit
Asus MN475ND Motherboard SLI Ready Motherboard
1TB Seagate HDD
Corsair 850W PSU
Asus 24xDVD Drive

Thanks for any help!

DDR2 or DDR3 Ram? SB usually is DDR3 1333/1600.
And Prob best to do a full format, although you could Repair your Windows install.

 

[Omiee]

i know this is not the laptop thread, but they have a sale on this hp laptop
the pavilion dv6 3010SD
these are the specs:

CPU-type Intel Pentium Dual Core P6000
Snelheid 1,86GHz
Geheugengrootte 3GB
Geheugentype DDR3 (SODIMM)
Videointerface
Schermdiagonaal 15,6"
Videochip Radeon Mobility HD5470
Video uit D-Sub (VGA), HDMI
Schermresolutie 1366x768 (WXGA Wide)
Backlight Led: Full-led

is it worth getting for 375 euro's

 

[sk3tch]

What do you guys think of this build?


(click to enlarge)

The MSI P67A-GD65 has a great review from HardOCP, who I really trust. Plus the $180 price is solid. Looking at the 6950 2GB for OC/hack-ability for the price. I can go nVidia but I thought this was best bang/buck...correct me if I'm wrong...

 

[luiztfc]

Hey guys, I'm helping a friend build a new pc.

He wants an excellent pc that can stand for 3 years before it needs an upgrade. His budget is 2,500 for the "tower" alone.

What config do you guys recommend?

 

[Hazaro]

What do you guys think of this build?


(click to enlarge)

The MSI P67A-GD65 has a great review from HardOCP, who I really trust. Plus the $180 price is solid. Looking at the 6950 2GB for OC/hack-ability for the price. I can go nVidia but I thought this was best bang/buck...correct me if I'm wrong...

Grab a 750W V2, or even a 850W.
Also sub in Samsung f3 1tb drives. Cheaper, faster, quieter.

Hey guys, I'm helping a friend build a new pc.

He wants an excellent pc that can stand for 3 years before it needs an upgrade. His budget is 2,500 for the "tower" alone.

What config do you guys recommend?

Dropping 2.5k? I'd wait for Ivy Bridge and see what AMD has on offer in June.

Although a 2600K would most likely suit 3 years easily.

 

[sk3tch]

Grab a 750W V2, or even a 850W.
Also sub in Samsung f3 1tb drives. Cheaper, faster, quieter.

Thanks - even though the Samsung f3 isn't 6.0/gbps like the WD Blacks?

Also, won't 650W true power suffice for what I'm pushing? I highly doubt I will do SLI. Even then...that should still be able to handle it, don't you think? Although I guess it is only like $20 more to go 750W.

 

[luiztfc]

Dropping 2.5k? I'd wait for Ivy Bridge and see what AMD has on offer in June.

Although a 2600K would most likely suit 3 years easily.

The only problem is that he needs to build the pc this month (he has already sold his iMac and needs the pc).

And what video card would you recommend? 2xHD6970?

 

[Hawk269]

Grab a 750W V2, or even a 850W.
Also sub in Samsung f3 1tb drives. Cheaper, faster, quieter.

Dropping 2.5k? I'd wait for Ivy Bridge and see what AMD has on offer in June.

Although a 2600K would most likely suit 3 years easily.

Is Ivy Bridge the next Intel CPU after Sandy? I have not heard of it before and if it is something that is coming out soon, I would rather wait. Does anyone know if Ivy will use another new motherboard?

 

[From The Dust]

Is Ivy Bridge the next Intel CPU after Sandy? I have not heard of it before and if it is something that is coming out soon, I would rather wait. Does anyone know if Ivy will use another new motherboard?

it's backwards compatible if I remember correctly. launch date, I'm not sure

 

[Mr_Guillotine]

Hey guys, finally decided I'm gonna drop some money to build myself a PC. I could really use the help with putting some stuff together and heading in the right direction.

Your Current Specs:N/A, making one from scratch
Budget: 800-1000$
Main Use: Mostly gaming and some programming.
List SPECIFIC games that you MUST be able to play: Witcher 2, Deus Ex 3, and Elder Scrolls 5
Are reusing any parts?: Nope
When will you build?: Starting now and will hopefully be able to finish within a month.
Will you be overclocking?: Not sure.

So far I have these parts selected out, feel free to stop me and advise.
Motherboard:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813130574&Tpk=MSI P67A-GD65

Power Supply:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817207002

Video Card:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814127510

I will probably purchase an i5 2500k processor, would really appreciate some advice and I'm new at this.

 

[Hawk269]

it's backwards compatible if I remember correctly. launch date, I'm not sure

I just googled it and it appears that it will come out sometime next year.

 

[·feist·]

Thanks - even though the Samsung f3 isn't 6.0/gbps like the WD Blacks?

Also, won't 650W true power suffice for what I'm pushing? I highly doubt I will do SLI. Even then...that should still be able to handle it, don't you think? Although I guess it is only like $20 more to go 750W.

6Gb/s isn't really going to make a difference with a mechanical drive. It definitely would with an SSD, though.

If you're not going to run dual GPUS down the line, that 650w is more than sufficient for those components.

Hey guys, finally decided I'm gonna drop some money to build myself a PC. I could really use the help with putting some stuff together and heading in the right direction.

Your Current Specs:N/A, making one from scratch
Budget: 800-1000$
Main Use: Mostly gaming and some programming.
List SPECIFIC games that you MUST be able to play: Witcher 2, Deus Ex 3, and Elder Scrolls 5
Are reusing any parts?: Nope
When will you build?: Starting now and will hopefully be able to finish within a month.
Will you be overclocking?: Not sure.

So far I have these parts selected out, feel free to stop me and advise.
Motherboard:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813130574&Tpk=MSI P67A-GD65

Power Supply:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817207002

Video Card:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814127510

I will probably purchase an i5 2500k processor, would really appreciate some advice and I'm new at this.

Parts look good, though I'd switch the 460 for something like this:

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814127518&cm_re=msi_460-_-14-127-518-_-Product

It's a better card. Or, one of these:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produ...391&cm_re=asus_460_1gb-_-14-121-391-_-Product
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produ...420&cm_re=asus_460_1gb-_-14-121-420-_-Product
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produ...cm_re=asus_460_1gb_top-_-14-121-389-_-Product

XFX's past PSUs are from a quality OEM, and, unless I'm mistaken, so is the one you have listed. As long as there warranty and customer service is good, then you're ok on that end.

Do you live near a Micro Center?
http://www.microcenter.com/at_the_stores/index.html

$180 is the best regular sale price that you're going to find for the 2500K.
http://www.microcenter.com/single_product_results.phtml?product_id=0354589

 

[Mr_Guillotine]

Alright thanks, I'll probably go with that card then. Yeah I'm going to head to an MC tomorrow and see if I can grab that i5. Any rec's on RAM or anything else I could use?

 

[·feist·]

Alright thanks, I'll probably go with that card then. Yeah I'm going to head to an MC tomorrow and see if I can grab that i5. Any rec's on RAM or anything else I could use?

Yeah, there's a $10 off coupon code for that PSU - EMCKGJE53. Not sure when it expires.

Ram:
$50 - 4GB
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820231277

With coupon code EMCKGJE69, you can get an 8GB kit for $75:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produ...031511-Index-_-DesktopMemory-_-20231314-L018A

While you're at MC, pick up a 1GB F3 HDD for $60.
http://www.microcenter.com/single_product_results.phtml?product_id=0340562

Case wise, if you want a quiet one with subtle styling and good cooling, there's the Fractal Design Define R3 (available in 3 colors).
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produ...352002&cm_re=define_r3-_-11-352-002-_-Product

For a bit less money, and more airflow, the CM 690 II Advanced is $90 from these sources:
http://www.microcenter.com/single_product_results.phtml?product_id=0328082
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00336EM0W/?tag=neogaf0e-20

These two are also great choices:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16811112239&Tpk=pc-k62
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16811119197&cm_re=haf_922-_-11-119-197-_-Product

While you're at MC, you can check out the 690 II and HAF 922 in person to see if you like them. They don't carry the Fractal or Lian Li, though.

Add a copy of Win7 and a decent $12-25 ODD burner and you're still within budget. If you want to save some more, you can opt for one of the $40-60 cases in the OP.

 

[Mr_Guillotine]

Alright thanks a lot with the help, after I pick up the processor and HDD tomorrow I'll see what money I have left and decide if I have to wait on the other components for maybe a week or two. Really appreciate the help since I was kind of stuck as to where to move next.

 

[Deadly Cyclone]

PC-Gaf, I may need your help later in the year to build a gaming PC, but for now I have a simpler question; what would be a decent widescreen monitor to get that is inexpensive? Right now I am rocking a 4:3 old ass Dell monitor and don't have a ton of money, but want to buy something halfway decent, even a house brand or off brand would do.

Any recommendations?

 

[EatChildren]

Alright bitches its game time. My GPU is mighty fucked and I need a new PC. I've sold some crack and done some other things I dont want to talk about but funds are in the process of laying the smack down on a new beast. Help my PC GAF, you're my only hope, because I'm out of the loop on pricing and want some guidance on what I should aim for in retiring my faithful companion in favour of a hotter, sexier model.

Budget: ~AU$1,500. I'd prefer to go under rather than over.
What I need: MBO, CPU, RAM, GPU, PSU. Maybe case.
What I dont need: HDD, monitor, speakers, mouse and keyboard. Maybe case.

Cliff notes:
- I dont need a monitor or HDD because I already have decent ones that dont need replacing. My monitor's native res is 1920x1080, so that is what I'll be gaming at.

- A system that can be OC'd now or at a later date is something to think about. I did that with my current system, and wouldn't mind doing it again. As with my current system, I'm unlikely to upgrade anything other than the GPU over a ~5 years. My current system, despite being old, stood the test of time thanks to OCing and giving a boost with a new GPU. I'd do the same with a new system when needed. If I need to buy a proper CPU fan for this, I'd be happy to (as I did with my current system).

- I'd prefer to keep my current case if possible, simply because it saves quite a bit of money. It's an older variation of the Antec P189, the Antec P180. Air circulation seems fine, but I'm not sure everything would fit. If I had to upgrade I would, but I really would prefer to gut the case and put everything in there. I like the case. It's sturdy, and has served me well.

- I must stress my budget limit is AU$1,500. It cant go over.

GAF?

 

[MacAttack]

Anybody looking at the MSI p67a-GD65 board should also consider the two lower tier models which offer a very similar feature set at reduced prices:

The p67a-GD55 (not currently in stock at Newegg) missing features: 2 Marvell SATA III ports, 2 eSATA rear ports, dual bios, heatpipe connecting 2 heatsinks and voltage check station (the contacts are still on the board if you want to check voltages)

The p67a-GD53 (currently in stock at Newegg for $30 less than the GD65) looks near identical to the 55 but I'm sure there must be some minor difference that I cant find.

Either way, the feature set of the GD65 is a nice luxury but don't discount these other boards just because they aren't "top of the line". The differences are not that critical for most users and one of the big things that gamers are interested in is the pci-e 2.0 8x/8x for CF/SLI and that is available on all these boards.

 

[Shambles]

Grab a 750W V2, or even a 850W.
Also sub in Samsung f3 1tb drives. Cheaper, faster, quieter.

Dropping 2.5k? I'd wait for Ivy Bridge and see what AMD has on offer in June.

Although a 2600K would most likely suit 3 years easily.

He's just running a single 6950. That 650W is already overkill for that. If anything he should drop down to a 500-550W unit if that saves him money. Heck, he could crossfire 6950's on a 600W unit.

 

[Quicksilver4648]

I posted some specs of a new computer I am hoping to build in the coming weeks/months. One of the suggestions I got was to drop the stock CPU cooler and get an aftermarket one. I have done some reorganizing of parts but I am have a questions. Based on this hardware:

Case: Cooler Master CM 690 II Advance
Motherboard: Asus P8P67 Pro
CPU Cooler: Cooler Master V6 GT

Will the V6 GT CPU cooler be too large and block the RAM on the P8P67 Pro motherboard? I have compared numerous pictures and Googled but I can't find a clear answer.

According to Cooler Master the V6 GT "Supports [the] Intel Sandy Bridge 1155 socket" and since the P8P67 Pro is designed exclusively for 1155 I would assume the RAM wouldn't be blocked. However, I don't want to waste my time ordering the cooler only to find out it is way too large.

 

[MisterNoisy]

XFX's past PSUs are from a quality OEM, and, unless I'm mistaken, so is the one you have listed. As long as there warranty and customer service is good, then you're ok on that end.

That PSU is made by Seasonic, and is a great deal right now ($80 out of pocket with code EMCKGJE53 with a $30 MiR)

Quicksilver4648: The V6/V6GT is large, but will clear your RAM as long as your DIMMs don't have tall heat spreaders on them - standard height RAM shouldn't get in the way. I've got the V6 installed on a socket 1156 motherboard (dimensionally very similar to 1155 boards), and it only interferes with one (unused) RAM slot, which would remain usable as long as I didn't try to install RAM with comb-style heat spreaders.

 

[Raggy]

I'm currently building an extreme build with revodrive SSD, hexacore i7 CPU, geforce 580.

But I need a new monitor, in the 24" range.

I haven't been following monitors for ages. What's recommendations here?

 

[Hazaro]

Thanks - even though the Samsung f3 isn't 6.0/gbps like the WD Blacks?

Also, won't 650W true power suffice for what I'm pushing? I highly doubt I will do SLI. Even then...that should still be able to handle it, don't you think? Although I guess it is only like $20 more to go 750W.

F3 is faster. Normal HDD don't come close to saturating a 3gbps.

The only problem is that he needs to build the pc this month (he has already sold his iMac and needs the pc).

And what video card would you recommend? 2xHD6970?

2600K + 8GB DDR3 + a new gen SSD (like a Corsair Nova 3 128GB) + whatever P67 board you can find (B3 stepping) above $170 are all good. Might as well go for the $250+ boards even if you can find them in stock.

2x 6970's are a good choice. Slap in a Seasonic X 850W and that rig is completely set for a good long time. Add case and cooler of choice (Socket 1155). If he wants extra fans get some Scythe Kama's <1500rpm. Very quiet. Although the 6970's are going to be the loudest things for sure.

Is Ivy Bridge the next Intel CPU after Sandy? I have not heard of it before and if it is something that is coming out soon, I would rather wait. Does anyone know if Ivy will use another new motherboard?

AM3+ is bought most likely June/July I think. Intel made some steps towards Ivy Bridge, but that's either very late this year, or next.

He's just running a single 6950. That 650W is already overkill for that. If anything he should drop down to a 500-550W unit if that saves him money. Heck, he could crossfire 6950's on a 600W unit.

Yes, but if I bought a V2 PSU I'd be keeping it for a long long time and for only $10 or $20 more I'd like having the extra headroom for OC'ing everything and still running a good % of max PSU wattage. Plus it allows a much easier upgrade for xFire down the line.

I wouldn't be that comfortable running two of those cards on a 650W (even though I'm running a GTX 295 on a 520w atm).

 

[Quicksilver4648]

Quicksilver4648: The V6/V6GT is large, but will clear your RAM as long as your DIMMs don't have tall heat spreaders on them - standard height RAM shouldn't get in the way. I've got the V6 installed on a socket 1156 motherboard (dimensionally very similar to 1155 boards), and it only interferes with one (unused) RAM slot, which would remain usable as long as I didn't try to install RAM with comb-style heat spreaders.

Thanks for the reply. This is the RAM I had originally picked out, G.Skill Ripjaws, since Newegg said they were compatible with 1155. However, judging by your comment I am not sure if the fan would get in the way. I would be getting two 4GB sticks so the farthest left slot is unused. I think it would work but I just don't want to take any risks.

 

[Hazaro]

Thanks for the reply. This is the RAM I had originally picked out, G.Skill Ripjaws, since Newegg said they were compatible with 1155. However, judging by your comment I am not sure if the fan would get in the way. I would be getting two 4GB sticks so the farthest left slot is unused. I think it would work but I just don't want to take any risks.

Just get the Sniper sticks. Newer, 1.5V, and standard coolers on them.
I picked those out myself as I don't care for the taller heatspreaders on RAM.

GAF?

See what you can match in terms of availability and prices to the second build in the OP.
Variables:
Are new chipsets (B3) available to you?
XFX/Seasonic instead of Corsair PSU
WD instead of Samsung HDD
ATi being cheaper than nVidia equivalent part (560 / 6950).

 

[·feist·]

While I don't really care about the GTX 590, I'm very interested in seeing the board design, components, temps, noise level, and power draw. May or may not bode well for the GTX 600s, and, possibly, the HD 7000s.

That PSU is made by Seasonic, and is a great deal right now ($80 out of pocket with code EMCKGJE53 with a $30 MiR)

Yeah, I wasn't 100% certain if SeaSonic was still building XFX's new line of PSUs, like they did with the old ones. That model is a hell of a deal right now.

 

[Fredescu]

GAF?

Which state are you in? Any preferred vendor? If you keep you're case, you're really going to struggle to spend $1500. Here's a complete overkill build from http://www.pccasegear.com.au :

I would check if your case can handle that length of card, and what height CPU cooler it can accept. I didn't include the CPU cooler, but there are some good options at PCCG around $40 for both full height and low profile.

A bit more of a sensible build:

Replace the GTX570 with an AMD if you want, there are plenty of good alternatives.

You could probably chuck an SSD in and get a new case, and still stay under budget.

 

[BloodySinner]

Nothing like paying relatively high shipping costs, and then watching your order sit in the same warehouse for days without being processed.

Don't you just love that?

 

[Shambles]

Yes, but if I bought a V2 PSU I'd be keeping it for a long long time and for only $10 or $20 more I'd like having the extra headroom for OC'ing everything and still running a good % of max PSU wattage. Plus it allows a much easier upgrade for xFire down the line.

I wouldn't be that comfortable running two of those cards on a 650W (even though I'm running a GTX 295 on a 520w atm).

Even running furmark with a 6950 he's only going to be pulling around 300W. He'd power it fine on a 400W unit and have plenty of overvolting/overclocking room on a 500W unit. That being said it depends on price as you can often get better units for cheaper than their weaker versions from sales. I've picked up a CX400 for 10$ and a TP-650 for 40$ lately. I like to pick PSUs up when they have great sales, I don't think i've spent more than 40$ on a PSU in a long time including units for multi-GPU systems. Even spending 20$ more for a higher model is just flushing 20$ down the toilet if it doesn't serve any purpose.

Here's an Antec unit for 50$ after MIR, it's modular too

 

[ColonialRaptor]

While I don't really care about the GTX 590, I'm very interested in seeing the board design, components, temps, noise level, and power draw. May or may not bode well for the GTX 600s, and, possibly, the HD 7000s.

Yeah, I wasn't 100% certain if SeaSonic was still building XFX's new line of PSUs, like they did with the old ones. That model is a hell of a deal right now.

Moar...

 

[mrklaw]

Backup advice.

My new PC is really just for gaming, haven't used it for anything 'productive', all my important docs, pics etc are on my MBP which is backed up separately. So I really just need a backup from a 'pain in the ass to restore' point of view. I can download almost everythign again from steam but it'd take ages.

Anyway..

My new PC has both USB3 and an external esata port. I'm thinking I could get a drive to plug into one of those, do a backup and then store offsite just in case. but which would be faster in real-world usage, bearing in mind its mainly for backup? And it'll be backing up a samsung spinpoint which might have its own speed limits anyway.

I saw a couple of different drives in PC world yesterday, one was a WD passport USB3, but it claimed only 3x faster than USB2 - is that because of the actual drive speed limitations? And there was a seagate 'transformable' backup drive. both portable and desktop sizes, you could extend how you interface to it by buying an esata, or USB3, or ethernet 'dock'. Are these any good?

Looking for speed and convenience. Lack of external power supply would be a bonus.

 

[Hazaro]

You should be able to get an eSATA casing for a HDD for not that much. Also a eSATA 'card'/slot.
If you are just doing backups every so often I'd just get a USB for ease of use.

Even running furmark with a 6950 he's only going to be pulling around 300W. He'd power it fine on a 400W unit and have plenty of overvolting/overclocking room on a 500W unit. That being said it depends on price as you can often get better units for cheaper than their weaker versions from sales. I've picked up a CX400 for 10$ and a TP-650 for 40$ lately. I like to pick PSUs up when they have great sales, I don't think i've spent more than 40$ on a PSU in a long time including units for multi-GPU systems. Even spending 20$ more for a higher model is just flushing 20$ down the toilet if it doesn't serve any purpose.

Here's an Antec unit for 50$ after MIR, it's modular too

Too bad the CX400 was cut off and has been replaced with much weaker models for both 400W (builder) and the CX430 replacement.

The BP550 is a good budget PSU, it was actually going to be in the first build, but it did not have a MIR and I decided that a Seasonic was worth the extra $15 down the line.

As for spending a bit extra on a PSU, I'd rather people buy a good PSU that they can keep using in their builds. If I was buying a $1,000 computer again I'd for sure go for a 750w just due to how much slower GPU progression is today and to have the ability to OC everything in the system with piece of mind. Most people I see here chime in that they want the possibility of adding another card at some point in time and this is a general help thread. If they just want excellent performance with one card, then of course the PSU req. will be lower.

As for wattage draw you are totally right, a modern system today will be sub 400W, but I just want that headroom. It's not saving that much money and down the line it can be a hassle if you want to sell and get a new PSU. Here's some numbers I did testing not too long ago for my personal system.

So I ran some tests.

Stock 2500K 3.3Ghz
2x4GB DDR3 RAM
Stock GTX 295 (2x GTX 260)
Misc: 2 HDD, 3 Fans, Audio Card

Wattages are PEAK / AVERAGE in wall draw (505W * 0.81 efficiency = 404W DC for Computer)

160W/160W : Idle desktop
235W/235W : P95 Blend
300W/280W : TF2 32 man fast spawn peak
350W/320W : Crysis, Relic, custom config
365W/365W : P95 Blend + FURMARK 1 GPU
505W/450W : P95 Blend + FURMARK 2 GPU

So for my rig at stock under maximum potential load a WELL BUILT 420W PSU (That somehow has perfect amps on the rails) could do it. Good thing the Corsair(Seasonic)520W can deliver 480W of its max rated 520W on the 12V

Overclocking to 4.2Ghz will add about 35W so that's 430W in some bizarro scenario with 100% load on everything, and there's still a touch of space left to mildly OC the GTX 295 with headroom.

 

[pseudocaesar]

Whats the best graphics card these days? Im running a radeon hd4890 1gb at the moment, and want a noticable boost. Im looking at getting the 6970 2gb, but whats the best option in the 6970s price range?

 

[Corky]

So hypothetically, given the little info we have, what are the odds that the Q4 Ivy bridge line will be worse than the upcoming june bulldozer series?

 

[rc213]

Any reason I shouldn't order this? $375

I already have a case, 2x HDD, 2x DVD-+RW, Antec Earthwatts 650w PSU and Win7 64-bit. No gaming, Mostly web surfing, iTunes and video encoding for iPhone 3GS/iPad.

I plan on using the onboard video via 2500K/H67. Thanks

 

[mrklaw]

Which state are you in? Any preferred vendor? If you keep you're case, you're really going to struggle to spend $1500. Here's a complete overkill build from http://www.pccasegear.com.au :

I would check if your case can handle that length of card, and what height CPU cooler it can accept. I didn't include the CPU cooler, but there are some good options at PCCG around $40 for both full height and low profile.

A bit more of a sensible build:

Replace the GTX570 with an AMD if you want, there are plenty of good alternatives.

You could probably chuck an SSD in and get a new case, and still stay under budget.

How are the 570 and 580 for noise/heat? I thought the 560 was a big step up in performance/noise/power ratio?

I'd be tempted to go for an ATI 6950/6970 or GTX560 to keep costs down - will still rock a 1080p display no problems, then you always have the ability to add a 2nd card down the line for a simple boost.

 

[Fredescu]

Any reason I shouldn't order this? $375

Is that a special bundle, or would you save money by getting a non K processor? You can't overclock with the H67, so no need for a K processor. If you want to overclock to help along your encoding, get a P67 based board.

 

[Fredescu]

How are the 570 and 580 for noise/heat? I thought the 560 was a big step up in performance/noise/power ratio?

570/6970 are a fair way ahead in raw performance. The 560 definitely uses less power. You can probably find a few cards with non reference coolers to bring down the noise if that's an issue. It's up to you how you value those aspects I guess.

 

[RiverBed]

I have a question that may be unusual, but I just moved to LA and in the next few months and even years, I'll be re-locating a lot. I want to build a kickass new PC (with the best CPU and GPU money can buy for starters), but I don't know how to move it around. So what options do I have? Can I safely ship it to my next address? I fear it will reach the destination damaged. I don't have a car nor friends with cars to do it manually and I certainly won't be allowed to carry three big boxes (the monitor, case and accessories) with me in a bus or a plane....
I can't stuff it in my bags either because the boxes would be too big. Besides, my PS3 plus accessories are keeping those busy.


How would I go on about that?

 

[sk3tch]

Thanks Hazaro, shambles, and feist. I think I am going to steal Mr_Guillotine's idea and get that XFX/Seasonic P1-650X-CAG9 for $60 after MIR...that's a great deal. It is likely I will only go one card. I'm only planning on gaming at 1080p.