700~ computer need recommendations

[ghoflz]

Hi!

Unfortunately, I basically have no idea on how good/effective all these computer parts are, so I need recommendations from you people so I don't screw up my first computer.

What I'm planning to do with this computer : play games! (wc3, cs, sc2 when it comes out!)

From what I've read, 8800 gt seems like a decent graphics card? Is it fine for running the above games and maybe a bit more advanced?

Should I be getting a barebone kit or should I buy custom parts from newegg/tigerdirect/etc.

sorry, I'm so ignorant about this. im hoping to learn this info someday and build a computer by myself.

Thanks in advance!

 

[Rage_3K_Moiz]

I'd advise building your own PC from scratch. I recommend these core parts:

• GIGABYTE GA-G31M-S2L Intel G31 Core 2 Quad Socket 775 1333 MHz PC2-6400 (DDR2-800) mATX Motherboard Retail - $52.99
• INTEL Core 2 Duo E7200 2.53GHz 1066 MHz 775 3MB Desktop Processor Retail ***Free Shipping*** - $119 + free shipping
• Corsair TWIN2X2048-6400 2GB Kit DDR2-800 XMS2-6400 Xtreme Performance Memory Retail ***Free Shipping*** - $36.9 after $10 rebate + free shipping
• VisionTek 900244 Radeon HD 4870 512MB 256-bit GDDR5 PCI Express 2.0 x16 HDCP Ready CrossFire Supported Video Card - Retail - $250 after $20 rebate + free shipping
• Corsair VX 550W ATX Power Supply - CMPSU-550VX - $69.99 after $20 rebate + free shipping

Good luck and let us know how it goes.

 

[ghoflz]

Wow! thanks for the advice.

For the graphics card, that is a high end one right? would it be better to go for a 8800 or a 8900 and get a better one later?

Another question, if I was to get the mobo that you suggested should i be worried if the video card is compatible with it?

 

[Rage_3K_Moiz]

Yes, the HD 4870 is a very high-end card, being the competitor to the GTX 260, which it performs on par with.

I'd recommend going with a single high-end card now, for the maximum possible performance boost.

And no, you won't have compatibility issues between the mobo and the card.

 

[ghoflz]

Is there an advantage for getting a 4gb ram for 40$ more?

also monitors: Samsung 2253LW 21.6" Widescreen Glossy LCD Monitor

this seemed fine for me

and case: Antec NSK4000

any cons about these?

(sorry i cant post links yet )

thanks in advance

 

[Rage_3K_Moiz]

4GB of RAM requires a 64-bit OS so you can utilize all your RAM, since 32-bit OSes are limited to recognizing 4GB of memory, which includes VRAM as well. So for you, if you get a 4GB kit, any 32-bit OS will only recognize 3.5GB of it, the rest not being recognized or utilized. 2GB is more than enough IMO, unless you're willing to get a 64-bit OS.

The case and monitor look fine BTW.

 

[NetCablesPlus]

This thread has gotten me to thinking. What OS is going to be purchased and will that be the single biggest expense in the whole project?