Need help with PC Upgrade

I was wondering if its really important to have more than one PCI-e x16 slots. Any advice? Because if I buy locally, I get only mobos with one PCI-e x16 but I get 2 years warranty. And I don't get warranty when buying online.

Thanx

It's not important unless you decide to go Crossfire in future. Moreover, most single card solutions are sufficient for any present games and apps.

The best chipset for OCing the Phenom IIs is the AMD 790FX. However, they are probably going to be over your budget. The Gigabyte board you mentioned is a decent option. Foxconn / Biostar / MSI will also probably be good enough boards.

On a personal note I would definitely recommend that you go ahead with the Gigabyte GA-MA790X-UD4P. It will be an above average overclocker too. One of the best boards at price/performance ratio.

Hi,
thanx rit.

Can someone compare an onboard Radeon HD 4200 with an ECS 9600GT 1GB video card for me?

Thanx.

IMO the 9600GT should be better. Onboard gfx solutions are not really for gaming. However, if you're planning to buy the 9600GT I'd tell you to wait a while. Graphics card prices may drop sooner or later enabling you to buy a better card.

The 9600 would be better, the 512mb version will make it more cost effective with little decrease in performance.

The 512mb version is just $5 less than the 1GB one . I'll go for the 1GB.

Thanx

I would recommend not buying ECS or Jetway; they are among the worst choices. The best would be XFX, eVGA, BFG (for NVIDIA)\XFX, Visiontek, Sapphire, HIS (for ATI), followed by other companies like PowerColor, Sparkle, Zotac, PNY, Gigabyte, ASUS, Leadtek and others.

Hi,

Rage, what's the difference between the various brands you listed?

Thanx

Well, I was going to get an ECS one. But there is also gainward. Is it good?

Hi Jawshh,
warranty and the cooling solution.

Yep, that's it Greg, but build quality is also a factor. ECS seem to have more problems with failing cards and the like, compared to the other makers.

Hi,

Thanx Red and Rage. And, What about Gainward? Is it a good manufacturer?

Thanx

Hi,

Is MSI K9A2 CF a good mobo? Is it good for overclocking?

Thanx

Gainward are decent. The MSI is okay, but not recommended for OCing.

Hi,

thanx rage i'll keep that in mind.

Hi,

Can someone tell me what are the best video cards ranging from $80 to $200. Give me a list if possible. By the way, I want to experience maximum settings on all games(that should help you decide).

Thanx

The 9600GT, HD 4770 and HD 4870 are the best picks in that price range IMO.

don't forget the HD 4890, its at $200 now.

So, I will be able to max out settings in all games with those cards? And are they future proof? I was wondering what was making the GTX 275 + Series so expensive.

Thanx