New Build, Tips?

[thatolchestnut]

Here are the specs:

CPU: Intel® Core? 2 Quad Processor Q6600
MB: Abit IP35-E Core 2 Duo Socket 775 Motherboard
Video: ?
Ram: OCZ S.O.E 2GB (2 x 1GB) 240-Pin DDR2 SDRAM DDR2 667 (PC2 5400) Dual Channel Kit Desktop Memory - Retail
Case/PSU: ?

For the PSU and MOBO I was expecting to buy a combo (likely a mid tower) at fry's for ~$100.

By part Im expecting
CPU: ~$300
MB $120
Ram $80
Case/PSU: $100
Total: ~$600

Now I know I left out that video card, but thats becuase I was wondering how much a video card does in regards to 3d rendering. If it makes a fairly significant different Ill prolly try to purchase a gts 8800 320mb right off the bat, but if it doesnt I was thinking of trying to go with an integrated gfx chip by intel.


edit: Also, I was going to try building this on my own to save some money. How hard is it to do this? I figured I could just read the manuals and stuff online.

 

[Cutthroat]

If you're not going to get an 8800, there is not much sense in getting a quad core. A dual-core would suffice even with an 8800, so if your watching a budget get an E6550 or whatever and a mid range graphics card, 8800GTS/8600GS or 2900XT/2600XT.

The Q6600 is going to be a nice price soon though so I would suggest getting both the Q6600 and an 8800GTX or GTS, or a 2900XT (best model you can afford). The video card is everything when it comes to 3D rendering, if you plan on playing new games with this rig you must have a decent video card.

The RAM is fine if you aren't going to overclock, if you wanna overclock get DDR2-800.

DO NOT spend $100 combined on a case and PSU, as a matter of fact, don't buy a case with a PSU, buy it separately. Make sure you get a decent quality PSU or you will regret it, there should be some documentation on the forums here somewhere about how to pick your PSU, perhaps someone else can point that out for me. Your case is a personal preference, think about what you want, quiet, flashy, roomy, cool, etc., look around and you'll find something you like.