Good time to buy?

[deveraux]

Hi all, okay, I know this is probably one of most classic question when deciding whether or not to buy a new computer. I usually don't bother, but just wanted to get other ppl's opinions since I will be blowing away a lot of cash. So here it goes: Is it worth buying a new rig right now?

I have read something about dual opteron's on a single chip that's due out, plus nVidia+ATI's next gen cards should be released in a few month which should cause a plummet for current gen card prices (but that's always the case anyways). Also there's the issue with PCIx cards/boards.

This is my current system spec:
AMD AthlonXP 2000+
1GB generic PC3200 (running @ 266MHz I think)
GeForce4 Ti4200 128MB
Creative SB Audigy DE

Planning to get:
AMD Athlon64 3500+
Corsair VS (2x512) PC3200
GeForce 6800 Ultra 256MB
Creative SB Audigy 2 ZS

So ...worth getting a newer rig or should I just upgrade the graphics card? I'm a gamer by the way. Any opinions are welcome. I really don't mind waiting up till another year if it's really worth it as in there's gonna be a big leap forward or something similar. THanks!

 

[Kishan]

if you can wait, i would. buy some console/console games in the mean time. Usually, the rule of thumb is upgrade your entire system when you can get double the performance. I upgraded from a 1ghz p3 dell with a geforce 2 mx and 384mbpc133. it sucked during the last couple of months, but it felt so good to upgrade. If you can wait, you should. Just make sure when you are ready, do plenty of research so you don't waste any cash.
Kishan

 

[apoppin]

it's always a good time to upgrade . . . something . . .
IF you have the disposable cash, you can build a very nice rig.

. . . in your case the videocard will make a (really) big difference - now. You might consider spending $100 less for the 6800GT as it's performance - o/c'd (of course) - is really close to ultra levels.
and If you DO wait to upgrade the REST of your rig, you might consider o/c'ing your Athlon so it is not so big a bottleneck for your new video card.


Now is not a bad time . . . it depends on needs and your upgrade path . . .

if you are a gamer and don't mind waiting, the Nforce4 should have SLI available by the end of this year . . . that'll give you some major 'options'

 

[Wahsapa]

i second the 6800GT option :thumbsup: no reason to get a ultra, cost to much, preformance increase minimal

 

[wetcat007]

change to a GT and looks good

 

[Bovinicus]

The right time to buy is when you need an upgrade. If you are satisfied with your current system, then don't upgrade. If you aren't, then upgrade or build a new system. Waiting is worthless. By the time you wait for one thing to come out another will be right around the corner.