new system, your input appreciated

[fpoverflow]

I'm looking to put together a new system for around $600. Here is what I have so far--

Abit NF7-S v2 $125
XP 2500 BARTON $128
ANTEC SLK3700AMB $69
Sapphire OEM RADEON 9100 128MB $85
CORSAIR 256MB 32MX8 PC-3200C2 (2-3-3-6-T1) $60 x 2

I will be using a HD and CDR from my old system.

I plan to do some overclocking, moderate gaming action, and just general geek-related activities

1) Should I perhaps go for a XP 1700+, overclock it aggressively, and then use the extra money for a higher-end video card?
2) I'm shooting for most bang for the buck w/out compromising quality. Any general suggestions there?

I've been researching here in the forums, and over at newegg for the last 48 hours, so any improvements would be welcome. Thanks!

 

[Markfw]

It depends on the games. That is a decent video card, but depending on the game may not be enough for you. That Barton will do WAY better than an XP1700 (and you can OC it also!), so if the games you play aren't too bad, then go for it.

 

[snidy1]

Looks good except for the video, not bad unless you want to play the most demanding games.

 

[fpoverflow]

The next best video card is the ti4200, correct? which is ~ $120.

What games do you think would trip up the system? As a side note, I've been playing freelancer on an Abit BP6 w/matrox g400 on full graphic detail, with hardly any slowdown. I was frankly quite amazed.. but I was wondering what games specifically, because I don't really have too much interest in the latest/greatest FPS. More of a strategy/RP type.

 

[human2k]

Ditch the 9100 unless you don't game alot, you can get a 4200TI in the FS/FT for under $100 easily if you check around. Everything else looks good.

 

[AgaBoogaBoo]

Originally posted by: fpoverflow
The next best video card is the ti4200, correct? which is ~ $120.

What games do you think would trip up the system? As a side note, I've been playing freelancer on an Abit BP6 w/matrox g400 on full graphic detail, with hardly any slowdown. I was frankly quite amazed.. but I was wondering what games specifically, because I don't really have too much interest in the latest/greatest FPS. More of a strategy/RP type.

If you want to play new games that are demanding a Radeon 9500 is needed. You could probably buy a refurbished one of these if you wanted to keep the cost low. I'd reccomend a 9500 Pro.

Also, what about getting that Epox motherboard from the Nforce2 chipset or something? What PSU watt rating does the PSU have? I would personally reccomend that if you're going for an Antec, 300 watts will do more than enough for your system, that is if your PSU is more, because I'm getting an Antec 380W With 2 fans, Blue Internal LEDS, and the Smart Fan Control for like $50 which would in itself be more than what you need.

 

[fpoverflow]

PSU info from NE --

ANTEC SOLUTION SERIES MODEL SLK3700AMB w/ANTEC SMART POWER 350W P4/AMD POWER SUPPLY ATX12V - RETAIL

I looked at the Epox 8RDA+, but it's not as overclockable as the Abit, without some funky mods.

Looks like Radeon 9500P is ~$140 new.

 

[Bonesdad]

EPoX has consistently been a great overclocker, what "funky mods" are you referring to?

 

[fpoverflow]

I thought the Abit was the overclocking king, since it had more options in bios, but you'll have excuse me if I'm wrong. I was specifically referring to the VDD mod for the Epox. Also, I was concerned about official Barton support from the Epox.

 

[WraithAkaMrak]

Is that $69 for the SLK3700AMB before or after shipping?

 

[fpoverflow]

It's from NewEgg, and that's before $15 shipping.