think about building new machine

[memory]

Sorry for the long post. I have been into computers for awhile now but never built one on my own. I have always bought prebuilt like Dell's mainly because of time and the warranty.

The reason I may build my own is because you can build a better machine for the same cost as a prebuilt machine, am I right? I paid 800 dollars for the computer in my sig a little over a year ago with no monitor. What kind of machine would I be able to build for that same price? If I do decide to build one it would be for watching movies, burning music, internet and occasionally I do like to play games like BF2142 and GRAW and eventually newer games. I don't play alot but when I do play I want to be able to play them with no problems.

I have an idea of what I want. For the video card, I would like to have a 7900 or higher. I really want a 8800 but they may be to high right now. The processor would be a Intel Core 2 Duo, just don't know which one. I want 2 gigs of ram or more. The hard drive and a dvd drive, I have two of each in my computer right now so I can use them.

Some things I am confused about like cases and psu's. Does the psu come the case or do I have to buy it seperate? And what size would be plenty? What about usb ports, does that come with case or the motherboard? I want at least 2 usb ports in front. And I need at least 5 all together. What about the motherboard. I have no clue on the that part of it. What is the hardest part on putting everything together?

What do you think the computer in my sig is worth minus 1 hard drive and 1 dvd drive?

 

[Kornowski]

Well, for a Core 2 Duo CPU, I would get the E6300, it's a steal at the price!
Also, the Corsair XMS2 series RAM is good and I don't think you really need any more than 2GB at the moment anyway.

A 7900 is pretty good for todays games and will probably last a little while longer, and an 8800GTS is what everybody wants but is out of most people's price range.

 

[Buy-it PC]

Sorry for the long post. I have been into computers for awhile now but never built one on my own. I have always bought prebuilt like Dell's mainly because of time and the warranty.

The reason I may build my own is because you can build a better machine for the same cost as a prebuilt machine, am I right? I paid 800 dollars for the computer in my sig a little over a year ago with no monitor. What kind of machine would I be able to build for that same price? If I do decide to build one it would be for watching movies, burning music, internet and occasionally I do like to play games like BF2142 and GRAW and eventually newer games. I don't play alot but when I do play I want to be able to play them with no problems.

I have an idea of what I want. For the video card, I would like to have a 7900 or higher. I really want a 8800 but they may be to high right now. The processor would be a Intel Core 2 Duo, just don't know which one. I want 2 gigs of ram or more. The hard drive and a dvd drive, I have two of each in my computer right now so I can use them.

Some things I am confused about like cases and psu's. Does the psu come the case or do I have to buy it seperate? And what size would be plenty? What about usb ports, does that come with case or the motherboard? I want at least 2 usb ports in front. And I need at least 5 all together. What about the motherboard. I have no clue on the that part of it. What is the hardest part on putting everything together?

What do you think the computer in my sig is worth minus 1 hard drive and 1 dvd drive?

Hi memory;633216-

No, your post isn't too long.

First off, the answer your questions about USB ports and psu with cases...

The mobo (Motherboard) will have the answer to your USB issue. Most mobo's have at least 8 USB ports already. You can add more by placing a USB port adapter if you so choose too. As for the psu and cases, in most situations the case usually has a psu. Unless, you are buying a high quality chassis.

As far as memory goes, 2GB is perfectly fine if you intend to run Vista - even XP Pro. Furthermore, the brand and manufacture is vital... although there are several options to choose from.

C2D (Core 2 Duo) is an excellent choice, with a SATA 320 GB hdd, and a high end video card is find when it comes to gaming, etc.

Systems can easily start at $675 and go up. I've sold systems to my customers for around that price range.

Although my website doesn't reveal too many items currently ( in progress of being updated), but I can put something or anything I have together for you.

We're a system builder, that's our main focus. With aptitude of memory, process, and enough psu power for consumption, I can build you a system with everything you want and still have enough to grow if you need it.

I know it can be frighteningly scary and with uncertainty in a decision as to which configuration to go with... keep in mind that's the beauty of building your own system. You have anything inside it you want, and never fear your limitations.

I hope I've reassured you in making any smart decision.

Let me know if I can help, or configure you a quote on a reliable system?

 

[memory]

What kind of motherboard would you recommend? I would like to have the option of SLI if I ever want to do that.

Also, what size psu would be a good choice? As for the hard drive, I will probably use my 250gb hard drive so that is less I have to buy.

Buy-it PC, could you shoot me the cheapest price for this list:
video card: 7900 256mb maybe 512
ram: 2gb don't know about brand
cpu: C2D 6400
psu: 600w or above
case: not sure, one with good cooling
mobo: not sure again

As for the brands, I have no clue which are good or bad brands. I would like to keep it under 800 dollars. I don't plan to overclock if that makes a difference.

As for the video card, I may wait until the prices drop on the 8800's. Do you know how much they are going to drop and when?