For $150 what's the best option

[fpoverflow]

I've been digging around the forums and haven't been able to find a definitive answer to this one. I'd like to spend $150-$175 on a pci-e video card. It should be relatively quiet (or upgradable with an aftermarket fan and stay within the price range), and work well in a c2d system with a 24" lcd. I plan to purchase within the next 5 days or so. I'm looking for maximum bang for the buck. I do game occasionally, so I would like it to perform well there of course.

Current contenders are x1950xt, 7950gt, x1950pro, but there are so many options it is challenging to choose. I'd really like to narrow down to the specific chip(s) and then hunt for the best deal. Thanks for your help!

 

[humanure]

either the x1950xt or 7950gt if you can find them in that price range. Generally the x1950xt is slightly faster than the 7950gt, really depends on the games you play. The 7950gt is going to be the quieter card.

 

[Munky]

One of these, listed starting with the fastest:

x1950xt
7950gt
x1950pro

 

[TanisHalfElven]

try to get 5122 mb versions of whatever you get. that'll help with the higher resolution.

 

[JPB]

Nice benches containing all the cards you mentioned.

http://techreport.com/reviews/2006q4/geforce-8800/index.x?pg=14

 

[fpoverflow]

Thanks for the great links. I'll shoot for the 1950xt first, although with 512mb it might be out of my price range. When do we expect r600 to move prices on these recommended cards?