New computer build questions

[Runes911]

Its been SOO long since I have built a computer from scratch I have a few questions about performance.
1. Does dual channel make a difference? Is it woth $20 more?
2. Does on board compaired to a sound card make a performance difference?

I am getting a motherboard that supports dual channel but if I get dual channel it will have a CAS of 2.5. If I get a single ram chip however it will have a CAS of 2 will the dual channel perform THAT much higher?

On board sound: the PC I am building will be a sempron 2400+ will haveing a sound card make much of a difference performance wise?

I am trying to work on a budget for a christmas present. This will run HL2 and world of warcraft. HL2 at low settings of course. The video card will be a FX5500 128MB will HL2 be playable? or will I need the two upgrades listed above?

 

[mechBgon]

If you're getting a Sempron 2400+, that means a SocketA mobo, and dual-channel operation is not a big boost there. Also, the dual-channel packages of RAM are really just two guaranteed-to-match regular memory modules, so if you can get the individual modules for less, go for it.

Onboard audio varies. If you haven't already ordered your mobo, can I suggest an Abit NF7-S with its onboard SoundStorm hardware-accelerated audio, plus Firewire and a PCI SATA controller. They've earned a good reputation.

 

[DaveSimmons]

For low budget video, Half-Life 2 will run better on an ATI card, especially if you can bump up to a 9600.

For AMD XP processors, dual channel doesn't really help unless you're using the onboard video.

Check thread #1 for suggestions on XP motherboards, or search on "nforce2" for more suggestions in other XP build threads.

Consider getting a "real" XP instead of a Sempron, since the Sempron numbers are comparing against Celerons instead of P4 -- a Sempron 2400+ will be slower than an XP 2400+.

Also consider the FS/T forum if you can't make a 9600, XP, mobo, and 512 MB RAM fit into your budget. Buying from the FS/T forum is pretty safe if you buy from someone with a high number of posts and a good amount of "Heatware" evaluations.

 

[JBDan]

Dual Chnl will not make a big difference with your cpu as mech says. As far as onbrd sound, getting a sound card will relieve your cpu somewhat for audio processing. There are good onbrd sound systems soundstorm and realtek 850 are two of them .