Building a Shuttle SP35P2

[Unicron80]

Hey folks, got a week left in Iraq and tweaking a SFF build for when I get back. Here's where I'm at right now:

Case (includes mobo/PSU/HSF): Shuttle XPC SP35P2 - $379

Processor: Intel C2D E8400 OEM - $250

Ram: Corsair 4GB (2x2GB) DDR2 PC2-6400 - $125

Video Card: Zotac 8800GT (single slot) - $260

Optical Drive: Samsung Lightscribe Combo Drive - $30

HDD: Possibly using an old Raptor, thinking about putting two 7200.11 drives in RAID 0 - $0 to $300

3.5" Slot: Scythe Kazemaster 2-Fan Controller - $30

OS: I guess Vista, dammit. Maybe dual-boot with Ubuntu. - $100

Total: ~$1200 to $1500


Key questions are these:

1) Anyone have any experience with "recertified" stuff from Newegg? They have the Shuttle for $100 cheaper as a recert.

2) You think I should shell out for new HD's or stick with my old raptor? It's a couple years old, don't remember model number.

3) Any experience with that fan controller? Can't find any reviews on it.

Thanks for the help! It's been a couple or three years since I built a comp, so trying to get in the swing of things again. Not looking to overclock (maybe a tad on the proc, have to see what the temps are). Might even underclock if that's what it takes to get the temps and noise down.

 

[DSF]

I would not pay $260 for an 8800GT when you can get an EVGA 8800GTS 512MB for the same price, or an 8800GT for around $220. (Sometimes even less with rebates.)

 

[Zap]

Yes, but an 8800GTS is normally dual slot, which probably wouldn't fit in the Shuttle XPC. However, the suggestion to look for a cheaper 8800GT is a good one. I'd also suggest cheaper RAM as well.