more specifically....
*I have not decided on any specific models.*
Motherboard:
-socket 754 or 939???
-I do not think I want to overclock my computer, but heard DFI mobo's are best for this
-definitely pci-e slot over agp
-240 pin DDR2 SDDRAM
-unsure if I want it to have a SLI slot, am leaning toward not going SLI
-want ample slots for RAM expansion
CPU:
-def. dual core, high clock speed - will be multi-tasking
-Not totally sure whether to get AMD or Intel, but am leaning toward the Intel dual cores due to your recommendation and Intel dual cores have done better then the AMD in stress tests. Intel's are faster when multi-tasking due to hyperthreading.
-do not think I will be overclocking
RAM:
-Am thinking of DD2 RAM
-2GB
Power Supply:
-At least 520 watt, some of my friends have told me how they significantly improved the speed of their computer by upgrading the power supply
-If I go with Intel I will need more wattage
-Will definitely need good cooling system (a lot of fans?)
-have heard good things about these brands:
- PC power and cooling
OCZ technologies
Hiper
Video Card:
-This is where I plan to spend a large amount of money, over 700
-Def. PCI-E
-not sure if I need/want SLI/crossfire, a 50% possible boost for twice the money does not seem worth it to me, I would rather get one high quality video card
-Primary function is pushing polys on 3d model progs. like Maya, 3dsMAX, and video edit programs like Adobe Premiere Pro. I would also like it to be able to run other things, games etc.
-I have looked at a few cards:
-nVidia has a Quadro series, but have heard those cards are very specialized, and only good for 3d modeling and video editing
-nVidia series 7 cards seem promising
-ATI also has good cards like the X850
-I do not want to decide on any model or series yet, for new cards will be available in the summer/ older, just as capable card's prices will have dropped.
*I'm pretty sure I want either an nVidia or ATI*
-I want dual monitor functionality even if I do not purchase dual monitors in the summer
Case:
-I want it to be able to hold everything, function over form def.
HardDrive:
-I already have a 180 external hard drive, so I would need a huge internal HD, maybe 200 ish, they are getting very cheap. Thinking SATA. What about raptor?
Soundcards/ speakers:
-eh... maybe get an OK soundcard, not nearly as important as other parts.
-sound not AS important, but would want a decent setup 2:1/ 3:1.
Optical Drives:
-am thinking a cd/dvd combo drive on top and dvd burner on bottom, but I also would like 1/2 extra slots for the up and coming Blue Ray/ HD DVD
Monitor/Perf.:
-Not sure if I have to spend money on a new mo niter, I may be able to scrounge one from somewhere else, if I do buy one, flat screen pref. Decent deal on the internet
-Thinking of getting IBM key/mouse, Evan has said good things.
Cooling System:
-I will def. need adequate cooling system, don't think water cooled is worth it, suggestions?
Thank you for spending time to read this, your advice is greatly appreciated