Rate my Quad Core System (newb)

[voodoo1694]

I've been out of the loop for a while and need your help. Below is a system I put together based on the material I've been reading on this site. Please let me know if I'm all set to go with these components. If you can recommend better or additional parts you think I'll need, let me know. Thanks!


LIAN LI PC-60BPLUSII Black Aluminum ATX Mid Tower Computer Case - Retail

Corsair CMPSU-520HX 520W Power Supply - Retail

GIGABYTE GA-P35C-DS3R LGA 775 Intel P35 ATX Intel Motherboard Retail

Intel Core 2 Quad Q6600 G0 Stepping Kentsfield 2.40GHz 8MB L2 LGA 775 Processor Retail BX80562Q6600 SLACR

Tuniq Tower 120 P4 & K8 CPU Cooler - Retail

Arctic Silver 5 3.5g High Density Polysynthetic SliverThermal Compound

XFX PVT80GGHF4 GeForce 8800GTS 320MB 320-bit GDDR3 PCI Express x16 HDCP Ready SLI Supported HDCP Video Card - Retail

OCZ Platinum Revision 2 2GB (2x1GB) DDR2-800 CL 4-4-4-15 Dual Channel Kit Retail OCZ2P800R22GK

Seagate Barracuda 7200.10 (Perpendicular Recording) ST3500630AS 500GB 7200 RPM 16MB Cache SATA 3.0Gb/s Hard Drive - OEM

Creative Sound Blaster Audigy SE Sound Card - Audigy SE - PCI - 24bit Sound Board - Internal

LITE-ON LH-20A1L-06 20X DVD±R Dual Layer + DVD-RAM SATA Black Quad Format DVD Writer Retail

 

[voodoo1694]

Yikes! I just realized this sytem is currently $1500 shipped with taxes. I'm really looking to spend ~1000-$1200 on a quad core system however. If you can give any advice on how I can cut down on price a little, let me know.

 

[Cutthroat]

Pretty nice looking system, I can see a couple of areas you can likely cut the price a bit.

-LIAN LI cases tend to be expensive, you can likely find something just as functional for a lot less.

-You can also likely get a slightly cheaper (but not less powerful) power supply. Antec tends to be a bit cheaper and a good brand.

-The Tuniq Tower is more expensive than similar coolers which perform almost as well.

-That motherboard is not the cheapest, give up on the DDR3 slots, you won't need them.

-Drop the Audigy and use the onboard sound, the Audigy won't work nicely with Vista anyway, and most onboard sound is as good if not better than the Audigy now.

-Could save a few more bucks on a smaller hard drive.

 

[MarcVenice]

p5k, what does the ram cost btw? cheaper case, and depend on how high you want to overclock you could get a cheaper HSF. Smaller HD, and drop the soundcard. Onboard sound has served me well, 8 channel onboard sound is pretty good nowadays.

 

[PurdueRy]

Get the standard P35 DS3R. No need to spend more for the DDR3 version.

 

[LightningRider]

Also I'd go with a Western Digital SE16 hard drive. Better performers and run quieter/cooler than the Seagates. Get the Seagate if you prefer the 5 year over 3 year warranty though. They can be bought for ~$100 if you look hard.

 

[idiotekniQues]

if you arent going to OC, get some slightly cheaper ram.

also, scrap the lian-li case, they cost a price premium.

also, what vendor are you buying from?

sometimes if you go from a few vendors you can save 20-30 an item here and there and knock off close to 100 bucks.

 

[voodoo1694]

Thanks for all the help guys. I'm ordering most (if not all) from ClubIT which seems to have the lowest prices on most of this gear.

I'm not going to OC (at least for a while), so I'm scrapping the tuniq tower + Arctic silver. I'm also getting rid of the Audigy card based on a few recommendations to use onboard audio. That's still only $100 savings. I'm all for giving up the Lian Li. What do you guys think would work? Thanks so much... this is really helping out.

 

[dclive]

Originally posted by: voodoo1694
Thanks for all the help guys. I'm ordering most (if not all) from ClubIT which seems to have the lowest prices on most of this gear.

I'm not going to OC (at least for a while), so I'm scrapping the tuniq tower + Arctic silver. I'm also getting rid of the Audigy card based on a few recommendations to use onboard audio. That's still only $100 savings. I'm all for giving up the Lian Li. What do you guys think would work? Thanks so much... this is really helping out.

Dell has their Q6600 9200 (a great case) for $649 or $619, depending on which deal you catch. Add a $230 8800GTS/320 (check a hot deals forum) and you're at $850 or so for a great little setup. Add $100 for a 500GB HDD, and a few other extras you might want, you'll get a fully assembled, fully warrantied, fully reliable system at a wonderful price.

 

[voodoo1694]

That's an option I was considering. I heard the PSU was only 350 watts though... Not sure if it would be able to handle everything I throw at it. I may want to add more RAM, HDD's, etc. in the future. Wouldnt it be worth it to just get quality components and build yourself, even if you're not OCing? I'd rather spend more money on something I know is rock solid with good parts. Your thoughts...?

So far I brought my custom PC to ~$1300 after shipping/taxes
Dell's PC with new GPU, HDD and PSU is ~$1100 after shipping/taxes

 

[dclive]

Originally posted by: voodoo1694
That's an option I was considering. I heard the PSU was only 350 watts though... Not sure if it would be able to handle everything I throw at it. I may want to add more RAM, HDD's, etc. in the future. Wouldnt it be worth it to just get quality components and build yourself, even if you're not OCing? I'd rather spend more money on something I know is rock solid with good parts. Your thoughts...?

So far I brought my custom PC to ~$1300 after shipping/taxes
Dell's PC with new GPU, HDD and PSU is ~$1100 after shipping/taxes

I believe it's 375W, and Dell offered it (at one time - I can't find the link now) with an 8800GTX, so clearly the PSU can handle that (8800 GTX) and much more. I don't think power will be an issue.

If I had to guess, I'd say it's more likely Dell's 9200 will be rock solid than random parts put together from a variety of vendors, but that's just an opinion...

The 9200 really does have a great case.

 

[voodoo1694]

I appreciate your input dclive. I'm still weighing options here before I pull out the ole' credit card. I buy a new PC once every 5-7 years so I want this to last me a decent amount of time like my current PC.

How easy would it be to add HDD's, swap parts, etc (ie light upgrades) with the Dell?

 

[dclive]

Trivial. The Dell has an easy to open case, and the drives are mounted on little sliders (use a screwdriver to attach a bit of plastic to each HDD, and then it slides effortlessly into the case - same with CDRWs, etc.) PCI / PCIe cards are the same - trivial.

 

[idiotekniQues]

Originally posted by: dclive

If I had to guess, I'd say it's more likely Dell's 9200 will be rock solid than random parts put together from a variety of vendors, but that's just an opinion...

this has to be one of the dumbest statements i have seen on here ever.

 

[dclive]

Originally posted by: idiotekniQues

Originally posted by: dclive

If I had to guess, I'd say it's more likely Dell's 9200 will be rock solid than random parts put together from a variety of vendors, but that's just an opinion...

this has to be one of the dumbest statements i have seen on here ever.

Just because you disagree with something doesn't make it dumb. One only needs to look at all the problems the builders on here have with new systems to see that building your own system has its' downsides, including drastically increased risk of problems and drastically lower levels of support.

If you want to overclock, build your own. If not, it's typically wise to look into Dell/HP/Compaq/etc.

 

[idiotekniQues]

sure there are risks with anything. a lot of the reasons people on here have issues is because they a)dont do research b)are trying to eek out every last megahertz out of all their parts

if you do your research right, dont oc - in the long term you are more than likely to have a rock solid stable self built rig than a dell if you do it right. simply because you have put into it the best quality parts, whereas companies like dell cut corners. or like in the case of microsoft, cutting corners with cooling on the xbox360.

 

[dclive]

Originally posted by: idiotekniQues
sure there are risks with anything. a lot of the reasons people on here have issues is because they a)dont do research b)are trying to eek out every last megahertz out of all their parts

if you do your research right, dont oc - in the long term you are more than likely to have a rock solid stable self built rig than a dell if you do it right. simply because you have put into it the best quality parts, whereas companies like dell cut corners. or like in the case of microsoft, cutting corners with cooling on the xbox360.

I don't disagree with you.

I think it's *possible* to build a system that will be as reliable as a Dell, but most people won't end up with something that's that reliable, whether because they must overclock, because they don't understand how to set memory timings, or any of a variety of other reasons. Dell does a REALLY good job engineering their systems so they can avoid hardware issues; a frankenstein machine won't have that same benefit. Some people will do well, some won't.

I also find most handmade systems to be very noisy. The Dells I buy - I frequently can't even hear.

Having to buy all of your parts from a variety of different vendors and then having to play games when your system isn't stable (is it the PSU? the RAM? the video card? Motherboard? etc...) is a complete waste of time for most people...they'd be much better served (and they'd get a *MUCH* cheaper price) simply by waiting for a Dell special and jumping on it. Even *if* a similar problem happened with a Dell, there's exactly one number to call and one person to deal with. Much simpler.

 

[Suspicious-Teach8788]

Originally posted by: dclive

Originally posted by: idiotekniQues
sure there are risks with anything. a lot of the reasons people on here have issues is because they a)dont do research b)are trying to eek out every last megahertz out of all their parts

if you do your research right, dont oc - in the long term you are more than likely to have a rock solid stable self built rig than a dell if you do it right. simply because you have put into it the best quality parts, whereas companies like dell cut corners. or like in the case of microsoft, cutting corners with cooling on the xbox360.

I don't disagree with you.

I think it's *possible* to build a system that will be as reliable as a Dell, but most people won't end up with something that's that reliable, whether because they must overclock, because they don't understand how to set memory timings, or any of a variety of other reasons. Dell does a REALLY good job engineering their systems so they can avoid hardware issues; a frankenstein machine won't have that same benefit. Some people will do well, some won't.

I also find most handmade systems to be very noisy. The Dells I buy - I frequently can't even hear.

Having to buy all of your parts from a variety of different vendors and then having to play games when your system isn't stable (is it the PSU? the RAM? the video card? Motherboard? etc...) is a complete waste of time for most people...they'd be much better served (and they'd get a *MUCH* cheaper price) simply by waiting for a Dell special and jumping on it. Even *if* a similar problem happened with a Dell, there's exactly one number to call and one person to deal with. Much simpler.

Homemade systems CAN be noisy, but if you try to build your system to be quiet from the ground up by using 120mm fans strategically placed and what not, it will be quieter. My system is not the quietest, but when my fans are volted down I can get excellent temps and a very enjoyable low hum that is barely a nuisance.

Sure those Dells are quiet, but if you want the same temps that I have, that's not going to happen. I could volt my fans all the way down to 7V and I'm sure my case would be JUST as quiet.

OP, I can't help you when you don't list the price of each. You should've jumped on the 8800GTS deal on Newegg

 

[LOUISSSSS]

to save money i'd...

drop the sound card
drop the video card to a x1950xt/x1950pro until dx10 actually has uses
drop the tuniq tower and use stock cooling since you're not doing any ridiculous ocing

 

[Rumple]

Start here:

Gigabyte GA-P35-DS3L - Plenty good enough and only $95
http://www.newegg.com/product/...p?item=N82E16813128059

Crucial Ballistix 2GB DDR800 - Only $110 but comes with a $30 rebate
http://www.newegg.com/product/...p?item=N82E16820146565

Drop the Tuniq and the sound card. No need for aftermarket cooling if your not going to be OCing. I have heard that the stock Intel coolers are pretty loud though. I am going to stick with the stock cooler and hear for myself before i order up a new one though. Personally i notice a HUGE difference going from stock motherboard sound to X-FI. But if your not going to splurg and get one of the higher end X-FI cards then stock sound will be very comparable. I just got an X-FI XtremeMusic on Ebay brand new for under 70 bucks however. Find a different case. I hear lots of good things about this one:

CoolerMaster Centurion 5 - Its only $50 and has a $10 rebate. I see TONS of people ordering this case because it is the best bang for the buck and it looks decent.
http://www.newegg.com/Product/...x?Item=N82E16811119068

I got this case myself and LOVE it.
http://www.newegg.com/Product/...x?Item=N82E16811133021
I wanted to make sure i would never have any cooling problems and that i would have plenty of room for any future upgrades i might want to add to my PC.

I would go with an EVGA 8800GTS 320mb. Then you can use the Step Up program within the next 90days if you save up some cash. Also what size monitor are you using? If you are under a 22" widescreen i would say the 320mb version is enough however if your above that i would buy the 640mb version.

Hard drive i would not go with anything fancy just any Western Digital IMO with a 16mb buffer. No need for Raptors and the like they are just a waste of money IMO.

I have heard nothing but good things about the Corsair PSUs and i would stick with that peronally if i were you. I would be buying one if i didnt already have an Enermax Liberty 500watt that i can use in my new build.

Also SCREW the pre-built vendors like HP/Compaq/Dell. Those are good for Granny and the Kiddies. If you can build it yourself or have a friend who can (its so easy its rediculous) always build your own as you can select each and every part and have them be quality parts. Also you dont have to deal with all the crappy software the vendors put on. If you have stability problems i would say its 99% of the time user error. If you do enough research and have even a limited ammount of PC knowledge you shouldnt have any problems. I have built TONS of PCs for family and friends and have never had any problems except for the rare bad part.

If you want it to be at least somewhat future proof i would stay with an 8800 series of card instead of wasting money on an ATI 1950 or anything similar. Stay with DX10 IMO if your building now and doing any gaming. I wouldnt worry about DDR3 either. Most of the parts i have listed are what im building ATM. Im just waiting for the Q6600s to come back in stock at Intel ( i have a friend who works for Intel and can get me one at about half price).

Some of those parts should help you save some cash. I have been researching for over 2 months and those are the parts I have decided on so far.

 

[dclive]

Can you put something together (from Newegg or whomever) for better than Dell's $659 with comparable or better parts:

nVidia 8300GS
Intel Q6600
2GB RAM
80GB HDD
DVDRW
Vista Basic, fully legal
Mouse/Keyboard
...

? For most people, that's a very difficult system to beat. Other advantages include:
1. The moment you boot it up, it will work.
2. If it ever doesn't, you have one number to call, and they *will* fix it - no guessing or wondering.
3. It's fully legal with Vista.
4. Handy driver CDs and such are included.
5. Support is a phone call away...
6. That 9200 case is nice...

 

[Piuc2020]

Well its not as bad as you make it seem, this build for example is just $700 (before shipping I'll admit, $670 after rebates)) but some costs shavings could be done by going with Home Basic, some part swapping here and there, shopping from different retailers (maybe some with free shipping like ZZF) and taking advantage of rebates, combo savings and the like. Still I would prefer the Dell but its not nearly as bad as you put it.

here is the build in question:
q6600 294.99
http://www.newegg.com/Product/...x?Item=N82E16819115017

80GB HDD 36.99
http://www.newegg.com/Product/...x?Item=N82E16822210003

corsair 2 x 1GB 99.00 (69.00 after MIR)
http://www.newegg.com/Product/...x?Item=N82E16820145590

asus DVDRW 27.99
http://www.newegg.com/Product/...x?Item=N82E16827135148

Windows Vista Home Premium 32-bit 111.99
http://www.newegg.com/Product/...x?Item=N82E16832116202

logitech 3 button mouse black 4.99
http://www.newegg.com/Product/...x?Item=N82E16826104051

benq black keyboard 4.99
http://www.newegg.com/Product/...x?Item=N82E16823121002

jetway JP901DMP motherboard 45.99

MSI 8400GS 256MB DDR2 videocard 48.99
http://www.newegg.com/Product/...x?Item=N82E16814127296

rosewill case black with 350W PSU 25.99
http://www.newegg.com/Product/...x?Item=N82E16811147048

When you buy in these price range, prebuilts are a lot better but building your own is always a better choice if you are willing to spend the time and effort in creating a wonderful stable build that far outshines any prebuilt in terms of reliability, performance and even the assembly and wiring.

 

[LightningRider]

Originally posted by: Piuc2020
Well its not as bad as you make it seem, this build for example is just $700 (before shipping I'll admit, $670 after rebates)) but some costs shavings could be done by going with Home Basic, some part swapping here and there, shopping from different retailers (maybe some with free shipping like ZZF) and taking advantage of rebates, combo savings and the like. Still I would prefer the Dell but its not nearly as bad as you put it.

here is the build in question:
q6600 294.99
http://www.newegg.com/Product/...x?Item=N82E16819115017

80GB HDD 36.99
http://www.newegg.com/Product/...x?Item=N82E16822210003

corsair 2 x 1GB 99.00 (69.00 after MIR)
http://www.newegg.com/Product/...x?Item=N82E16820145590

asus DVDRW 27.99
http://www.newegg.com/Product/...x?Item=N82E16827135148

Windows Vista Home Premium 32-bit 111.99
http://www.newegg.com/Product/...x?Item=N82E16832116202

logitech 3 button mouse black 4.99
http://www.newegg.com/Product/...x?Item=N82E16826104051

benq black keyboard 4.99
http://www.newegg.com/Product/...x?Item=N82E16823121002

jetway JP901DMP motherboard 45.99

MSI 8400GS 256MB DDR2 videocard 48.99
http://www.newegg.com/Product/...x?Item=N82E16814127296

rosewill case black with 350W PSU 25.99
http://www.newegg.com/Product/...x?Item=N82E16811147048

When you buy in these price range, prebuilts are a lot better but building your own is always a better choice if you are willing to spend the time and effort in creating a wonderful stable build that far outshines any prebuilt in terms of reliability, performance and even the assembly and wiring.

I don't think Home Basic is even worth buying, I wouldn't cut there.

 

[cmbehan]

don't spend too much on a video card right now. Vista SP1 (w/ DX 10.1) will make all current cards obsolete in the next 6 mos....and games don't even make full use of DX 10 yet...so you don't get much from buying a DX 10 card right now.

 

[dclive]

Originally posted by: cmbehan
don't spend too much on a video card right now. Vista SP1 (w/ DX 10.1) will make all current cards obsolete in the next 6 mos....and games don't even make full use of DX 10 yet...so you don't get much from buying a DX 10 card right now.

I'm assuming that is from ExtremeTech's reports.

In that all existing videocards became "obsolete" the moment DX9.0c (shader model 3.0) was released, so too will this (DX10.1) make all existing videocards "obsolete".

In other words, it won't. DX9.0b cards were perfectly useful, but they were slower at SM3.0 stuff (which still, even in 2007, isn't required in games - or even close - and probably won't be for years).