luckybaer Posted December 16, 2005 Posted December 16, 2005 Hi, All. I love the DFI rig that I built (see sig). Now, I am committed to upgrading my other PC to a DFI board, PCIx video card, SATA 3.0 HDDs, and maybe some new RAM. Here are the new components that I am looking to buy: Mobo: LP UT nF4 SLI-D (replaces Asus A8V Deluxe - AGP) Vid Card: eVGA GeForce 7800GT 256-P2-N517-AX (Replaces BFG GeForce 6800GT that will go into my old P4 2.8C box that my son uses - he's 7, but he wants Rise of Legends next year, so I figure having a better video card would be a good thing for him) HDDs: 2x Western Digital SATA 3.0 250GB WD2500JS (replaces 2 Seagate Barracudas 160 GB 7200.7 - these have begun to act strangely, as my HD Tach charts show DEEP VALLEYS. I don't know why this is happening, but I'll use them for storage in my aforementioned P4 2.8C box that my wife and son use). RAM: OCZ Gold GX 2x1GB DDR 500 OCZ5002048ELGEGXT-K (I currently have 4x512 Crucial Ballistix that I plan on moving to the PC upstairs. They will replace 4x256 Corsair XMS that I purchased 2 years ago. The Corsair stuff will hang around in my parts bin as back up pieces or test pieces. I'll only change to the OCZ RAM if a few financial things happen to go in my favor. If they don't, I'll just keep using the Crucial stuff until I grow further disenchanted with a 4x set up). The existing components that I'd like to keep using: CPU: FX-53 (2.4Ghz, clawhammer core (I believe)) Sound Card: Soundblaster X-Fi Xtreme Music PSU: Antec NeoPower 480W DVD/CD-ROM: I have a couple of Sony drives that have been fine. Heat Sink: Thermalright XP-90c Fan: Some 92mm Triple Bladed fan from Delta. It is quiet and it pushes 78cfm. I guess I'm looking for someone to weigh in on compatibility issues. I do plan on overclocking this rig, and I'd like to go SLI with dual 7800GTs later. When I do get the extra 7800 GT, I'd like to upgrade the PSU to a OCZ Powerstream 520. Think I'll need to do that, or is that overkill? This is my gaming PC, and I would like to hold on to it as my primary gaming box for AT LEAST another year. I figure that by the end of 2006 I will see enough new stuff out on the market that might intrigue me enough to build another rig. I think the FX-53 is still a good CPU, and it has sentimental value, since my 70-year old mother had enough smarts to buy it for me last year and say, "Here's your birthday present. Now go build something that you'll enjoy." LOL. I guess I'm just hooked on building these things, having fun, and keeping them stable. Anyway, let me know what you think. All your feedback helped me spec and build the rock-solid rig I have in my sig. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
luckybaer Posted December 17, 2005 Posted December 17, 2005 Hi, guys. I'd appreciate it if some of you would offer your opinions. I really digested all the feedback from my last request for guidance and it helped me avoid many, many issues and potential problems. 1. Does anyone see any potential conflicts / compatibility issues with the stuff I've chosen? Particularly: PSU OK? What do you guys think of the RAM? Anyone have experience with eVGA video cards? 2. Is it better to have faster RAM (i.e. DDR 500) for games, or is it better to have something with faster timings (i.e. 2-2-2-5, etc.)? I'm pretty sure I've picked stuff that will work well, but hey! Everyone needs a little reassurance, and I'm man enough to admit that I'm no expert on this stuff! Share this post Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
luckybaer Posted December 18, 2005 Posted December 18, 2005 No major issues? Going once... Share this post Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
JiveTurkey Posted December 19, 2005 Posted December 19, 2005 Looks like a great combo! If you want to nitpick, you could probably replace the Antec PSU with another OCZ 520. The OCZ guys are speaking very highly of the 2 GB Gold GX kit, which is a great option, seeing how the EB Platinums are generally unavailable. Lastly, you could probably save a few bucks and get the XP-90 (non-C), which only means a couple of extra degrees. Your call. Oh, and before I forget, I've had very good experience with eVGA cards. And while I've not purchased the 7800GT yet, I've read nothing but raving reviews on the model you've listed (the CO). And their warranty is second to none. And lastly, you don't happen to be a Blues fan, are you? We may have two interests in common. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
luckybaer Posted December 19, 2005 Posted December 19, 2005 And lastly, you don't happen to be a Blues fan, are you? We may have two interests in common. Like you, I am also suffering with the Blues. Thanks for the feedback. I already have the XP-90c, so I'll stick with it. Although... I believe it has been taken off the "approved" list for DFI. I may go with the XP-90 just to save weight and be in "compliance." LOL. I hope the Antec can handle everything. I'd rather not pay $100+ for another PSU when this one has done fine so far. I have the OCZ Powerstream in my other PC, and it is great! Share this post Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
JiveTurkey Posted December 19, 2005 Posted December 19, 2005 I'm sure it'll work out fine with the quality components you've assembled/planned. See you back over @ the forums on stltoday.com -"BluesFanInKC" Share this post Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
luckybaer Posted December 19, 2005 Posted December 19, 2005 I'm sure it'll work out fine with the quality components you've assembled/planned. See you back over @ the forums on stltoday.com -"BluesFanInKC" LOL. Yeah. I'm also there as Luckybaer. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
JiveTurkey Posted December 19, 2005 Posted December 19, 2005 LOL. Yeah. I'm also there as Luckybaer. Believe it or not, that's how I made the connection. Probably a pretty unique username. Again, best of luck, and you'll have to let us know how it all works out. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
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