OK guys, I could really use some guidance here.
I like the idea of building my own PC, but I've never done it before, my attention to detail isn't fantastic with patience-demanding tasks, and I'm intimidated by the many, many things that can go wrong during the build and after. I'm OK with buying a pre-built PC or using a site where you pick your stuff and they build it for you.
That said, I'm looking for a gaming PC to use when my Oculus arrives next month. I'm also intrigued at the idea of using it to pilot a drone with the Oculus, though I do have a 4-year-old laptop that might be able to handle that, so what you recommend doesn't have to be a laptop. I'm in awe of the gorgeous screens in the PC screenshot thread, but I have no idea if playing at such amazing-looking settings is even possible, or if folks just pause, apply magic, and take a screenshot. I'm sure I won't end up playing many games because I don't play tons of games any more, but I like the idea of being able to if I want to.
Your Current Specs: Old-ass laptop. Looking for a new system. Most bang for my buck. Probably a desktop, unless there's a powerful and affordable laptop out there.
Budget: $1,500, United States
Main Use: 5 Gaming, 5 Emulation, 4Video Editing, 2 Streaming games in HD, 1 3D/Model work, 3 General Usage (media playback).
Monitor Resolution: I'll be using a 70-inch, 3D 1080p Sharp TV (it can display 4k content, but isn't 4k). I'd like to have something that can possible handle 4k when I make the plunge in a year or two. If it handle it, maybe something that can be easily upgraded to do so.
List SPECIFIC games or applications that you MUST be able to run well: I'd love to have something that can run games all purty like in the PC screenshots thread. Those Skyrim mods look amazing and I'm guessing people will do some sweet stuff with GTA V. 30fps is fine for me. I don't play FPS much.
Looking to reuse any parts?: I'm happy with my keyboard, mouse, and speakers.
When will you build?: Whenever you tell me to. If I really should wait until whenever because there are awesome new cpu's or graphics cards coming out in the fall, then I will wait.
Will you be overclocking?: I'm scared of overclocking because I don't understand it and it makes me sad when things break. But if you can convince me I should, then I will.
Thanks in advance for the help. I know I sound like a giant n00b/pussy with this post, but that's basically what I am when it comes to gaming computers -- I've always been a console guy.