How is this for a new gaming rig? Need advice!

[TheJackal]

CPU - P4 3.0C - $398
MB - Asus P4P800 - $122
HS/F - Zalman CNPS7000-CuAl - $35
Case- Antec 1080AMG - $118 (comes with 430W PS)
Memory - 2 x 512 MB Crucial PC3200XMS - $296
HD - Seagate Barracuda 7200.7 120GB SATA - $131
DVD - $70
Video - ATI Radeon 9800 Pro $340
Sound - on-board

$1510 + tax

Some questions:

1. I went with the P4P800 instead of the P4C800 because i'm not interested in RAID. That is the only difference, right?
2. Are the Corsair XMS really worth the extra $100?
3. I have heard of compatability issues with the 9800 Pro, especially with games. Woulf the FX5900 be better?
4. I am open to suggestions for a different HD and DVD.
5. Do the prices i have listed sound reasonable?

Thanks in advance, please feel free to make ANY suggestions!

 

[Markfw]

The 9800pro is fine with compatability. Prices are in-line, or at least close. Nice system

 

[DaveSimmons]

For prices, check newegg.com. The DVD price looks about $30 too high unless it's a DVD + CD-burner combo.

I've heard of 9700 problems, but not 9800. Fx5900 is about $100 overpriced for the performance that you get.

I'll probably go with a 2.8C and retail HSF when I build my system, since I don't feel the 2.8 / 3.0 performance difference justifies the price. I'll spend the money on a Pioneer A05 or A06 DVD burner instead.

(edit) I might also get an Audigy2 since games are tested against Creative cards more than mobo sound.

 

[Corporate Thug]

1. P4P800 is fine (personally i like IS7/IC7)
2. i would get 2 sticks of regular 512 XMS (pc3200) @ gameVE for $102/ each w/ free shipping
3. 9800 pro should be fine
4. HD looks good, I would go w/ a 16X pionner for the DVD
5. prices look reasonable

 

[tenoc]

No burner?

Of course, you can get a combo drive for the $70.

 

[TheJackal]

Thanks for the good info.

Shady, the 2 512XMS sticks from gameVE, any difference in performance?

 

[newbiepcuser]

This link should help you will any Corsair problems that might arise. --->Asus and Corsair.