First Time Builder Seeking Help.

Originally Posted by Magic

I don't know if I'd go with any Sony-brand CD/DVD-related products what with that whole rootkit thing, although at this point it may be more of a preference than a real concern.

I'd be preference more than anything else, since quite a few of their drives are nothing more than BenQ models. As for the videocard, I'd suggest eVGA's 7900GT. Why from that company in particular? Well, their step-up program is pretty convenient if a new card you want becomes available up to 90 days after you bought this one. That and their warranty is one of the best around, with everything except you intentionally damaging the card being covered.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16814130281

Like on the reviews on Newegg's page for it says, it provides 7800GTX levels of performance for far less. And take it from somone with the older card, if I could go back and get this one, I would because of the smaller size and cooler temperatures. BTW, unless you're running FEAR at insane resolutions, it'll run with the works nice and smooth.

How ya doing, buddy?

Maybe he can future proof the machine as much as possible and pick up a 3800+?

There's nowhere I can't reach.

Originally Posted by Sir VG

By the time a computer part winds up on the market, it's already obsolete.

True, but you don't want to be saddled with something that's already half-extinct from the get go. That's why you tell folks to avoid getting AGP boards or cards.

Quote:

For a processor, just go with the best that you can afford, which unless you're Megalith, it's not the top of the line, but usually a couple notches down.

Megalith has a Beowulf cluster in his basement. Why lie.

This thing is sticky, and I don't like it. I don't appreciate it.