Can two brands of RAM live in harmony? and suggestions on mobo and for kicks LCD.

[jadducci]

My most recent build has been one set back after another, this is what I currently have:

e6600
thermalright Ultra 120 HS & S-Flex
8800 GTS 640mb
2x1gb OCZ ddr2 1066
320 gb seagate 7200.10
620watt corsair PSU
random optical drive
gigabyte aurora ATX case

I think that is everything. I still obviously need a mobo and a monitor and some time to put it together. I found a good deal on some crucial ballistix tracer ddr2 1000 so I was thinking of buying 2 sticks of that for a total of 4. Would this be wise/unwise? I am concerned about compatibility etc. I plan to OC some, but I need a stable system.

If anyone has any suggestions for a good mobo, I have gone through 2 gigabyte p965 ds3's already so I would prefer another route. I don't need SLI or anything fancy, I want something fast, decently OC'able, and definitely reliable. I would like to keep it under $150. Thanks.

Lastly, and more rambling, I need a new LCD. I have been looking in the 20-22in catergory. I want to spend no more than $225ish if possible. I game a lot.

Thanks in advance.

 

[Matthias99]

I am concerned about compatibility etc.

It doesn't matter. You can mix RAM brands, speeds, timings, sizes, whatever. The motherboard will run everything at the slowest supported speed if the modules aren't exactly the same (so if you put in DDR2-800 an DDR2-1066, it behaves like it's all DDR2-800).

You might try searching the motherboard forum for recommendations there. There have also been lots of threads asking about LCD monitors.