About to order some parts for my new comp, but I have a few questions first...

[jman19]

1. I've noticed that the Mushkin Value Ram and the Corsair Value Ram (both 1 GB) are the same price at newegg ($80). Is there any reason to go for one over the other? I see lots of ppl recommending the Corsair, but the last time I bought any computer parts (years ago) I remember that Mushkin was considered a top quality brand.

2. In looking for a case and a PSU, I think I want the following:
Case:http://www.newegg.com/product/product.asp?item=N82E16811129152
PSU:http://www.actbuy.com/details.asp?item=FS17500%2D2%2E0

However, I noticed this Antec case that comes with a PSU that will be around the same price as the above parts:

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16811129158

Which case/psu setup do you think is better?

3. I'm considering either a GeForce 6600GT or an x800 XL (from monarch)... is the x800 xl worth an additional $75 dollars? Note that I'll be using a 19'' monitor with a 1280x1024 native resolution. I don't know how much I'll game, but I'd like to play the big games out now and in the future (HL2, etc) and if I don't play them at native res they won't look too good, right? That's the only reason I can see going for the x800 xl... Which do you think would suit my needs better?
The other components that I'm looking at are:

Chaintech VNF4/Ultra
AMD A64 3000+ Venice
NEC dvd burner
Seagate Barracude 7200 160GB
Floppy

with another optical and more HDs in the future, most likely.

TIA!

 

[SrGuapo]

Mushkin is just as good as corsair... Corsair, kingston, Mushkin, patriot, etc. all make great value RAM. I would just pick whatever is cheapest...

That antec case combo looks like a great deal. Either of those choices will be plenty... Thje x800xl is much more poowerful tan a 6600gt (almost as good as a 6800gt). My 6600gt can handle 1280x1024 just fine in current games with 2x AA, but I am definately planning on upgrading when some next-gen games come out. I would get the x800xl if it fits in your budget.

 

[jman19]

Sorry for the quick bump, but I need to order soon :clock:

 

[jman19]

Another bump, sorry

 

[YOyoYOhowsDAjello]

I think I'd take the 3000b and Fortron vs the Antec combo.
They would both be good options though.

For PCI-e, the X800XL is a great deal. I think it's well worth it over the 6600gt.