4870 Build

[elateral]

My first build turned out very well, so I'm coming back to you guys for a second one. I had already proposed a 2nd build a while back, but with the release of the HD 4000 series, I've been rethinking the build.

Used 99% for gaming. 1% for music, internets, and pretty much just gaming.

Intel Core 2 Quad Q6600 Kentsfield 2.4GHz LGA 775 Quad-Core Processor Model BX80562Q6600 - Retail

SAPPHIRE 100243L Radeon HD 4870 512MB 256-bit GDDR5 PCI Express 2.0 x16 HDCP Ready CrossFire Supported Video Card - Retail

ASUS P5Q Pro LGA 775 Intel P45 ATX Intel Motherboard - Retail

Newegg.com - G.SKILL 4GB (2 x 2GB) 240-Pin DDR2 SDRAM DDR2 1066 (PC2 8500) Dual Channel Kit Desktop Memory - Desktop Memory


CORSAIR CMPSU-650TX 650W ATX12V / EPS12V Power Supply - Retail

Antec Performance One P180 Silver cold rolled steel ATX Mid Tower Computer Case - Retail

Pioneer 20X DVD±R DVD Burner Black SATA Model DVR-215DBK - OEM

(No HDD Needed)

Notes: Had a Q6600 on my other build and loved it, but I've heard the E8400 is better for gaming, and looks nice right now. The mobo seems nice, but I'd rather have different RAM.

The biggest help I could get would be on the Mobo and RAM. Case advice would be nice too. Should I stick with the E8400 or switch to Q6600? Budget is around $1000. Considering OCing, but would be a noob at it.

 

[35g700]

Are you using vista?

 

[elateral]

Are you using vista?

64-bit Ultimate, yes

 

[35g700]

You would benefit if you had more RAM if you are gaming with vista, 3-4 GB would be better.

 

[veg1992]

Get the Asus P5Q-E or Asus P5Q Pro because of the 8 phase power on that board

and get a DDR2 1000 4gb G-Skill Kit or the Patriot Viper Kit because they are way better spec'ed than what you have right now

Games are getting closer and closer to Quad-Intensive, I read what you said but still recommend it, because its close to the e8400's price

EDIT: Don't forget a cooler if you want to overclock

 

[elateral]

Good advice, switched to Asus P5Q Pro and 4gb G-Skill. I guess I'll give the Q6600 another go if you're sure.

I'm curious about the differences between the pro and the P5Q-E? Is the P5Q-E better?

I'd really like to try overclocking, have any links for me, and a cooler?

 

[thirdshiftdj]

xigmatek s1283, Ocz vendetta 2, True

 

[Sora]

get this g.skill instead if you plan to buyt soon.

Newegg.com - G.SKILL 4GB (2 x 2GB) 240-Pin DDR2 SDRAM DDR2 1066 (PC2 8500) Dual Channel Kit Desktop Memory - Desktop Memory

The PK series has always been better than the PQ and right now it's only 5 bucks more.

Also get a Xigmatek S1283. The P5Q Pro is a good choice

 

[thirdshiftdj]

buy.com has the OCZ Vendetta 2 for 37.85 shipped if you are a new member for google checkout. Great cooler too.

 

[darksideleader]

an after market cooler for the 4870 is somewhat recommended.
Newegg.com - Thermaltake CL-G0102 VGA Cooler - VGA Cooling

not nessary, espcially when the 4870 is using the 2900XT cooler but its a nice option.