My completed (almost) rig for all to comment

[bladedwing]

Seemed to forgot my original login after 4 years, so I had to create another account...darn! I wanted to do as I always do tho... every few years I overhaul a system and just like to get a few comments (makes me feel more confident about my choices)

PSU - Corsair TX 850W
CPU - Intel i7 860 Quad Core
MEM - Patriot Viper II 2x2 GB 1600 Mhz Kit
MOB - Asus P7P55D (see http://www.asus.com/product.aspx?P_ID=RBA8CzWoopUlYRFZ)
GPU - Sapphre Radeon HD 5870 1GB
HDD - WD 500 GB 32 MB Cache (Black Edition)
DVD - LG 22x Lightscribe
CASE: Thermaltake Tsunami Dream (I just can't let go of this case...)

Here's the thing... I was thinking afterward: I got a really good deal on my Corsair PSU - $99 which is same $$$ as a 620 W Enermax. The real reason I got a 5870 was because I just thought it would be such a waste of watts without doing a 5870 CF someday - and also because it's just the pride feeling of having the top-line card (I know you know the feeling) Now, I know this sounds funny, but oddly... i don't game! I do a lot of 3dsmax though, so I figured it help alot with speedy viewports, but really... in terms of real-life needs all that's needed for now (I think) is the lesser 5850, and then CF it with an identical 5850 when cost comes down to about $200.

I can still make that exchange and save about $130... it just bugs me it's such a waste of wattage tho!

What do you guys think? (Like I said, reading comments just make me feel better)

I know everyone has had a debate like this in your own head at one point or another!

 

[Magusigne]

Ok. Firstly, I wouldn't worry too much about the wattage, however there is someone here around the forum who will probably pop in and calculate it all down to the point of how much energy you'll spend cooling your room in the summer time due to the heat increase. (LOL)

Personally (and I know I haven't learned yet) is that you shouldn't stay on the bleeding edge of graphics card development. It takes a bit for the games and what not to catch up UNLESS you are playing at 1920x1200 resolution with AA on. Personally I would AT LEAST trade in the 5870 for a 5850 (Since you want to CF you could even step down further and cheaper to a 4870 which is a great card) and save money to touch up the rest of your rig.

4gb is standard nowadays, I suggest throwing in another 4gb kit if its not too expensive. It's always nice to have another DVD drive for burning etc (they are not expensive).

Also your not using stock cooling on your cpu right? if you are buy a nice heatsink.