Legit Reviews

Hey all,
Sorry to ask the most redundant question in review forums, but I've been out of touch with the hardware world for quite a while (kids do that).

I have a budget from 1500+ and I need to find the best performance system I can.

Some considerations:
1.) I have a DVD writer
2.) I am considering a flat panel LCD
3.) I'd like to build in upgrade options (i.e. from dual to quad in the future)

Thank You
Nick

what are the main tasks you'll be using this rig for, and do you need to include a new operating system license in the cost?

Here's what I'd suggest:

Mobo: Intel chipset P35 or X38 (for P35 take your pick, cheapest X38 is $200-230 Gigabyte or Asus)
CPU: Core 2 Duo E8400 ($200-230, and will leave room for quad upgrade later)
GPU: 8800GTS 512 or 8800GT (XFX and MSI GTS's are going for $299, just make sure it is the G92 512mb version)
HDD: Seagate Barracuda 7200.11 (500GB is $120 but you can go for more if you want)
PSU: PC Power & Cooling Silencer 610 or 750 (Have never used PCP&C but I have heard only good things and the 750w Crossfire Edition will be my next PSU for $150, 610w is $120)
RAM: Crucial Ballistix (2 gigs for $75, nuff said)

For monitor I'd think about getting a Samsung, Asus, or LG widescreen LCD, 20" or 22". Make sure it's 2-5ms response time if you will be gaming, 1680x1050 resolution is good for the GTS.

If you will be overclocking you'll want an aftermarket CPU cooler as well. Arctic Cooling Freezer 7 Pro ($20-30) if you go cheap, Thermalright Ultra 120 ($60 + fan) if you go expensive. Zerotherm NV120 or Tuniq Tower look like good alternatives in between.

Altogether that should leave around $200 for a case of your choice and anything else you might need (mouse, keyboard, DVI cable, OS, etc.) For case I'd recommend Antec 900, or Coolermaster 690.


All that will make a nice gaming rig for ~$1500. Hope it helps!

I agree with most of whats been said, but I would take a serious look at either the Corsair 520HX or Corsair 620HX PSU. Very solid, stable PSU's with modular cabling for a clutter-free case.

Definitely get at least a 22" LCD...a 24" if you can fit it into the budget. I have an Acer 22" LCD with native res. of 1680x1050 and it looks great with my 8800GTS 512.

Since your budget should allow, I would opt for the 8800GTS 512 instead of the 8800GT.

Definitely get the E8400...stock HSF should be fine unless you plan to do a mean overclock...then look into the Arctic Freezer 7 Pro.

Yes on the Seagate drives...they are my favorite by far.

2x1Gb DDR2-800 Ram unless you want to work your way up to 8GB with a 64 bit OS, then get 2x2GB and have 2 slots open for expansion. OCZ, Corsair, A-Data, etc...buy the speed you need and just look for good reviews.

To answer the first question, it will be used for gaming mainly and various other menial tasks like surfing the web.

The suggestions look great and I'll take a look at Newegg soon.

I appreciate all the help.

wow, hard to improve on whats been said so far. Both PS recommendations are very good (I use PC Power & Cooling, absolute best) but the Corsair is Excellent and like said the modular cabling may help with the clutter.
For a case I would look to Lian Li, the new hardware mentioned will add a LOT of heat compared to older comps. Its real important to get as free flowing a case as possible. I try to avoid cases with fans on the side panels (more of a gimmick)

Try to avoid cases with HDD racks turned sideways(block a LOT of incoming air)
Make sure it has enough room for the hardware you choose (sometimes 8800 series cards can interfere with HDD placement)

A very good example of a well designed inexpensive case
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.a ... 6811112099