I've decided that I want to build a true enthusiast desktop system in the next month or so. I've decided on a few components already (such as a case and such), but would like some pointers. I do plan on overclocking the system.
I need something that will support 8GB of RAM and 6 hard drives, as this system will be used as a media server, gaming system, and a virtualized network setup as well (I want to learn more about networking, and don't have the space for 5-6 computers to devote to this).
Here's what I know right now.
Case: Cooler Master COSMOS 1000. I really like the design of this case (good cable management, seems to have great airflow, and is relatively silent). Yes, this system will be used in my bedroom, and if I can avoid having to turn it off at night, I'll be happy.
CPU: I'm torn between the E8400 and the Q6600. I'm not doing 3D animation / tons of video encoding work, so in all fairness I think the E8400 would be a better processor for me. AFAIK, games don't really take advantage of quad core yet.
Motherboard: Here's where I'm completely stumped. I haven't owned an Intel desktop since my P4 1.6A system. I now I DON'T want an ABit board (haven't been happy with the two boards I've had). I want something with DDR2 memory support (DDR3 is way overpriced right now). SLI or Crossfire support would be nice, but I'm not picky as to which would be better (or if I'd even use that).
RAM: 2 x OCZ 4GB PC2-6400 memory. I know overclocking will be limited, but I've seen very few "somewhat affordable" 4GB kits with faster speeds here in Canada. If there is a better option for under $200 per 4GB kit, I'd consider an upgrade here.
Video Card: I'm leaning towards the ATI Radeon HD3870 X2 card, but I also know the nVidia 9800 GX2 is coming out by the time I'm buying. Again, I'm not picky as long as it offers great performance.
Hard Drives: Only one I really need right now is an OS drive, and for that I'm thinking a 150GB Raptor will do the trick. Might toss a few VMs on here too. If it would help even more, I could probably budget in a second Raptor for use in RAID 0 mode if it would provide a noticeable improvement. As for the "media server" role, I already have 4 x 500GB drives I'm using for that (I want to use RAID5 for that).
Optical Drive: LG's HD-DVD/Blu-Ray combo drive + a basic DVD-ROM drive. Yes I know HD-DVD is dead, but there are still some movies I'd get that are currently exclusive to that format. $239 Canadian really isn't bad for a combo drive at this point in time.
PSU: I've really liked my Corsair HX620W, but feel it might be a bit underpowered for my new system. Advice here would be useful.
I think that pretty much sums it up. Eventually I plan to get either 2 x 24" displays, or a single 30" LCD to replace the 21" one I have now.
Overall, I'm budgeting around $2000 Canadian for this setup (minus the LCD).
I need something that will support 8GB of RAM and 6 hard drives, as this system will be used as a media server, gaming system, and a virtualized network setup as well (I want to learn more about networking, and don't have the space for 5-6 computers to devote to this).
Here's what I know right now.
Case: Cooler Master COSMOS 1000. I really like the design of this case (good cable management, seems to have great airflow, and is relatively silent). Yes, this system will be used in my bedroom, and if I can avoid having to turn it off at night, I'll be happy.
CPU: I'm torn between the E8400 and the Q6600. I'm not doing 3D animation / tons of video encoding work, so in all fairness I think the E8400 would be a better processor for me. AFAIK, games don't really take advantage of quad core yet.
Motherboard: Here's where I'm completely stumped. I haven't owned an Intel desktop since my P4 1.6A system. I now I DON'T want an ABit board (haven't been happy with the two boards I've had). I want something with DDR2 memory support (DDR3 is way overpriced right now). SLI or Crossfire support would be nice, but I'm not picky as to which would be better (or if I'd even use that).
RAM: 2 x OCZ 4GB PC2-6400 memory. I know overclocking will be limited, but I've seen very few "somewhat affordable" 4GB kits with faster speeds here in Canada. If there is a better option for under $200 per 4GB kit, I'd consider an upgrade here.
Video Card: I'm leaning towards the ATI Radeon HD3870 X2 card, but I also know the nVidia 9800 GX2 is coming out by the time I'm buying. Again, I'm not picky as long as it offers great performance.
Hard Drives: Only one I really need right now is an OS drive, and for that I'm thinking a 150GB Raptor will do the trick. Might toss a few VMs on here too. If it would help even more, I could probably budget in a second Raptor for use in RAID 0 mode if it would provide a noticeable improvement. As for the "media server" role, I already have 4 x 500GB drives I'm using for that (I want to use RAID5 for that).
Optical Drive: LG's HD-DVD/Blu-Ray combo drive + a basic DVD-ROM drive. Yes I know HD-DVD is dead, but there are still some movies I'd get that are currently exclusive to that format. $239 Canadian really isn't bad for a combo drive at this point in time.
PSU: I've really liked my Corsair HX620W, but feel it might be a bit underpowered for my new system. Advice here would be useful.
I think that pretty much sums it up. Eventually I plan to get either 2 x 24" displays, or a single 30" LCD to replace the 21" one I have now.
Overall, I'm budgeting around $2000 Canadian for this setup (minus the LCD).
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