This will be my new gaming rig. Like I said I primarily play DDO but would like to be able to run DAO at close to if not max settings. I want a rig that is going to last me a few years without needing a ton of upgrades if any. My current system I built in Summer 2005 and has been a good rig for me. I can run DAO on it, but only barely. I would like SSD, but they don't seem like a cost effective option yet for any storage capacity that is really usable. If I would be better off in a RAID configuration, design it and I am sure with a little research I could set it up. This is what I will need:
Case-I want to stay air cooled for cost effectiveness. Been really happy with my Black P-182
CPU- I have always ran Intel, and as I understand they are still top of the heap atm.
MoBo-I have been happy with my ASUS, but no preference here.
PSU- What ever is required.
GPU- Once again I have always had ATI cards, But I am open to whatever set up. Would like HD capable cards.
RAM- Would like as much as the budget and Windows 7 will allow. If there is some that can be permanently and reliably over clocked that is fine if that will help the budget.
HS- What ever will keep the CPU cool and fit in the case.
OD- I just want Optical Drives that will match the case, and of course one CD/DVD writing capable. I don't not need a BR Drive at this time. Unless they have gotten cheap enough it only makes sense.
OS- Was looking at Windows 7 64-Bit Pro...OEM for System Builders. $140 Looked like the cheapest way to get Windows 7. If there is a reason not to go this route let me know.
HDD- SSD's would be nice, But I am not sure they can fit in the budget. So what ever the best set up would be with around 500 GB of storage. And maybe Raptors or SSD if you can squeeze them in some how.
I would like at least Sata II connections inside the case for ease of set up and a clean look, besides their performance advantages. As I said above I would like to run Dual 21" Monitors (HD if possible), the speakers, mouse, and keyboard listed above will need to be accounted for in the budget also. I would like to do this as cheaply as possible (of course) but I have a budget up to $2500. If I forgot anything just let me know. I appreciate the help with this, as I am not capable of staying up with the latest and greatest performance parts in the PC world.
