Time for something new

Jul 4, 2005
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Hey guys, here's the system I want to build, all parts are in Canadian funds. The main goal here is a value system for home/office use with the ability to handle some games nicely (HL2, Doom3, Far Cry, etc.)

CPU: A64 3000+ Venice (stock HSF) ...$183.98
Mobo: DFI NF4 Ultra-D ...$173.99
RAM: OCZ Dual Channel Premier 2x512MB PC3200 CAS2.5 3-3-7 ...$129.98
GPU: Conect3d Radeon x800xl PCI-E 256MB $379.99
HDD: Seagate Barracuda 7200.8 200GB SATA ...$135.99
DVD-R: *EDIT* NEC ND-3520A DVD+RW $76.11
Case: *EDIT* Centurion 5 ...$81.18
PSU: Fortron 500W Blue Storm $104.96
Speakers: Logitech Z-2300 ...$152.42

Total: $1,418.60

Ok, now for the questions!
1) If I were to decide to overclock the CPU, how high of clock speed would the HSF, RAM, and PSU's let me reach? (I've never overclocked, but I plan on learning, I just want to be ready)

2) For a monitor, which would be a better choice, a 19" CRT or a 17" LCD? Right now I have a 17" NEC Multisync 77F CRT, should I even upgrade? (remember, looking to save money)

3) Any thoughts on which case I should get? If I get the Centurion, what PSU should I get? The PC will be in my bedroom, so quietness is a factor.

Any other suggestions or comments are welcome, thanks!
 

KoolDrew

Lifer
Jun 30, 2004
10,226
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Go with the OCZ RAm since Corsair VS does not work well with the DFI board. I'd also get the NEC DVD burner. As for the case I would get the Centurion 5 you have listed with a Fortron 500w Blue Storm.
 

Mik3y

Banned
Mar 2, 2004
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Originally posted by: KoolDrew
Go with the OCZ RAm since Corsair VS does not work well with the DFI board. I'd also get the NEC DVD burner. As for the case I would get the Centurion 5 you have listed with a Fortron 500w Blue Storm.

i highly recommend the centurion 5. it's a beautiful case. i recommend a seasonic psu or the antec neopower if u can afford it. if u want pics of my rig along with my case, just ask and you shall recieve.
 
Jul 4, 2005
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Originally posted by: Mik3y
i highly recommend the centurion 5. it's a beautiful case. i recommend a seasonic psu or the antec neopower if u can afford it. if u want pics of my rig along with my case, just ask and you shall recieve.

Some pics would be great, can you post them or do you need my email?
 
Jul 4, 2005
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Originally posted by: KoolDrew
Go with the OCZ RAm since Corsair VS does not work well with the DFI board. I'd also get the NEC DVD burner. As for the case I would get the Centurion 5 you have listed with a Fortron 500w Blue Storm.

I checked the prices and the Centurion 5 is $81.18 and the PSU is $104.96; sounds good! Thanks!
 
Jul 4, 2005
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Okay, I was wondering... right now I have a 6600GT video card on my list to buy, but I was also thinking about a Radeon x800xl. I have the Ultra-D motherboard listed which has the Dual Xpress Graphics; I was wondering if I should buy a cheaper motherboard with only one PCIe graphics slot, and wait until ATI comes out with their version of SLI. Then when i'm ready to upgrade I could get the new motherboard and another x800xl. Thats assuming that the x800xl would work with ATI's 'SLI' once it comes out.

Thoughts???
 

KoolDrew

Lifer
Jun 30, 2004
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I have not kept up with ATIs crossfire lately as it really does not interest me, but I don't think it would work.