Budget: approx ₤1000, max ₤1200 Main uses of intended build: Home Theatre to watch online shows in high quality and maybe with TV-tuner and PVR (already have LCDTV 37”, AV receiver Onkyo TX-SR606 and 5.1 quality surround sound), heavy Excel number crunching, strategy gaming (possibly more), all round usage and I like to have many windows and programs open at the same time. Parts required: Everything including monitor, keyboard, mouse, maybe tv tuner if recommended. OS needed too, prob Win7 Pro 64 bit. Which OS is best? Previous build information (list details of parts): only have a laptop at present Monitor resolution: already have a LCD 1080p LCD tv, probably would like to get a small (approx 19”) monitor too Storage requirements: unsure but probably at least 1TB, maybe 2x1TB in raid (would like to learn about it). Like the look of those SSDs for idea of putting my OS on it. Is that too expensive however? will you be overclocking: yes. Would like to learn. Any motherboard requirements (no. of USB, Xfire/SLI, fan headers): USB3.0, SATAIII, maybe Xfire/SLI if it’s worth it, at least several USBs but don’t know how many needed if this helps with future proofing? Extra information about desired system: • would like it to be quiet but doesn’t have to be silent. • Generally as a PC to hook up to my current audio-visual experience and use the PC to do everything on. • Also have PS3 and Xbox360 and if I could somehow bring these into the equation it would be cool too. • Case: Lian Li PC-B25F. Pics show it would fit in nicely with current AV setup. Alternatives for sleek, minimalist with a little lighting (only a little mind you) and maybe a window would be welcome. Especially if they’re cheaper. • Am doing all this to learn as much as possible about computing (have loved the reading over the last few days ) whilst wanting good value. • Wifi if possible • TV tuner if it’s worth or at least to use PC to record stuff from my LCDTV (has DVB tuner) What's better to go with: Intel or AMD? what's better for future proofing or meaning a cheaper upgrade next time round? can't wait for suggestions! thanks, GinZ
"What's better to go with: Intel or AMD?" That's one question you DO NOT ask, it attracts all the wrong sort of people (but I prefer Intel personally) Welcome to bit-tech Also, is that Pounds or Euros?
if you go more on gaming and want to save on $...i recommend AMD...but invest in a good aftermarket cooler to prevent unwanted trouble
I'm a Intel fan, AMD just doesn't cut it anymore. Do great GPU's though I assume the TV has HDMI?? I think an i5 setup would do you best, as I don't think your budget would stretch to a i7. If noones specced you up when I return later I'll do it
I think i've managed to include everything: £636.31 + £537.67 = £1,173.98 I reckon this is about the best build you can get for your budget.
I think i5 aswell but i would not go for the lian li case instead i would go for the Fractal R2 as its alot cheaper and still excellent build quality http://www.scan.co.uk/Products/Frac...oise-Absorbing-x10-Bay-ATX-Case-inc-Front-I-O Review from bit-tech: http://www.bit-tech.net/hardware/2010/01/15/fractal-design-r2-case-review/1 I would go for Geild tranquillo cooler http://www.scan.co.uk/Products/Geli...l-S775-1366-1156-AMD-754-939-940-AM2-AM2plus- Bit-Tech Review: http://www.bit-tech.net/hardware/2010/01/20/gelid-tranquillo-cpu-cooler-review/1 This would make a very powerfull quite pc
Hi all, thanks for all in the input This is a learning experience. I'd prefer to go as best value/performance and then upgrade things going along. This will in theory help me keep value/performance and also help me cement my new knowledge by the upgrading experience and the reading I'll do at the time. Great, first post and already I've brought up a no-go subject. thanks for the warning, bigsharn. My budget (loose one) is in pounds. Gaming? I will only want strategy games or adventure games. I have a PS3 and Xbox for FPSs. My TV does indeed have hdmi as does my AV Onkyo 606 receiver. Keyboard and mouse - forgot to state they must be wireless as would also like to use the keyboard (and mouse) whilst sitting at a distance from the 37" LCDTV. I have a mega cheapie wired keyboard and wired mouse alreadya, but they're not fun to use (the mouse doesn't have a scroll button!) I've looked at the Fractal case already and considerably good-lookig but just a little too plain for me. tis a very good suggestion but, unfortunately for my bank balance, I think I love the blue ring of wonderment on the Lian Li PC-B25F. If it had a version with a side window I prob woulda gone for that GPU: am happy to get just what is needed rather than the best for my budget. ₤320 feels a lot for outlay. I would be happy to upgrade as I go. what would sort me just for HD playing and strategy gaming. However, is the 5870 a better investment to get best value for money for my usage and to cover the need to upgrade soon? Thanks, Telltale boy for the specs. I look them up and consider. keep the advice coming
You'd probaby be fine going for the 5850 then which is about £100 cheaper & offers better value. Also that RAM kit is supposed to be 4GB, not 6GB (6GB is really only for i7 builds), I must have clicked on the wrong one. That'll save you about £150 on the build.
Sexy,although im starting to get fed up of lights and clear side panels,having an antec 1200 doesnt help either
I have been looking at this as well... http://www.scan.co.uk/Products/Lian-Li-PC-7FNB-Black-Mid-Tower-Aluminum-Case-w-o-PSU-New-Version (without window) http://www.scan.co.uk/Products/Lian-Li-PC-7FNWB-Black-Mid-Tower-Aluminum-Case-with-Window-w-o-PSU (with window)
Id perfer the one you chose first as it has a black interior and the front is sleeker,the second choice is very like the fractal except for the kinda ugluy fan in the front.
There's always the Lian-Li PC-B10... http://www.scan.co.uk/Products/Lian-Li-PC-B10-Aluminium-Black-Advanced-Midi-Tower-No-PSU Not black inside though.
Just had an accident.It looks so sleek.you realy need to see these cases in person to appreciate the build quality, Touch.They may look very plain on the internet but when get your hands on one in real life you really see how stylish and modern they really are, kinda like an ipod touch
A very wise person on this forum posted that it is easier to get a silent case and add extra fans for cooling performance than to get a great cooling case and try and to make it silent... If I could find the thread I would credit that poster.
Hi all, thanks for all the additional input. I’ve added some of your info and put together a list to build either an AMD system or an Intel one. Please give me your views: Items common to both potential builds: Case: Lian Li PC-B25F - ₤134 http://www.scan.co.uk/Products/Lian-Li-PC-B25FB-Black-Mid-Tower-Aluminum-Case-w-o-PSU or very tempted by this, but extra ₤40 on top?! Lian Li PC-B25F with window – ₤171 http://www.scan.co.uk/Products/Lian-Li-B25FWB-Black-Midi-Tower-Case-With-Window-w-o-psu GPU: options: which of these most suitable for achieving good quality HD viewing and strategy gaming whilst being the best value? HD5850 - HD-585X-ZAFV - 1GB XFX HD5850, PCI-E 2.1, 4000MHz GDDR5, GPU 725MHz, 1440Cores, DP/ DVI/ HDMI, Aliens vs Predator - ₤235 http://www.scan.co.uk/product.aspx?ProductId=35398 or HD 5850 Gigabyte ATI Radeon HD 5850 1GB OC PCI- E 2.1(16) GDDR5 – 235 http://www.microdirect.co.uk/Home/Product/46611/Gigabyte-ATI-Radeon-HD-5850-1GB-OC-PCI--E-2-1-16- are double fans a good thing for noise or not? Or Asus Radeon HD5850 1GB PCI-Express Graphics Card - ₤225 http://www.misco.co.uk/applications/SearchTools/item-details.asp?EdpNo=421497&CatId=2697 or HD5830 XFX ATI Radeon HD 5830 "AVP Edition" 1024MB GDDR5 PCI-Express Graphics Card – ₤165 http://www.aria.co.uk/SuperSpecials...R5+PCI-Express+Graphics+Card+?productId=40295 or HD5770 - c. ₤123 SAPPHIRE TECHNOLOGY Radeon HD 5770 - 1 GB GDDR5 - PCI-Express 2.0 (11163-02-20R) http://www.pixmania.co.uk/uk/uk/4122063/art/sapphire-technology/radeon-hd-5770-1-gb-gddr5.html RAM: G-Skill 4GB 1600 CL7 – ₤102 http://www.ebuyer.com/product/180490 OS: Windows 7 Home Edition 64 bit – ₤78 Optical drive: Samsung Black 2X SH-S223B – ₤16 https://www.aria.co.uk/Products/Com...al+DVD±RW+SATA+Drive+-+Black+?productId=31918 Would I benefit having a BD player or writer instead? Bear in mind I have a PS3 for BD already. HDD: Samsung Spinpoint F3 (HD103SJ) x 2 = ₤47 x 2 = ₤94 http://www.aria.co.uk/SuperSpecials...+1TB+SATA-II+3.5"+Hard+Drive+?productId=37726 Case Fan(s): do I need more than one? Nexus Real Silent 120mm Fan with PWM control – ₤10 http://www.aria.co.uk/Products/Comp...t+120mm+Fan+with+PWM+control+?productId=30573 and/or Nexus Real Silent 120mm Case Fan – ₤10 http://www.aria.co.uk/Products/Comp...s+Real+Silent+120mm+Case+Fan+?productId=28883 or Titan TTC-NK85TZ Fenrir CPU Cooler – ₤30 http://www.scan.co.uk/Product.aspx?WebProductID=1000983&source=froogle why is the Titan so much more expensive? Is it worth it? Monitor: options Viewsonic VX2260WM Full HD 22" TFT Monitor 1920x1080 20,000:1 (dynamic) 300cd/m2 2ms VGA/DVI-D/HDMI Black – ₤148 http://www.ebuyer.com/product/151336 or Samsung Lavendar P2250 22" LCD Monitor 16:9 Full HD 1920x1080 300cd/m2 50000:1 Dynamic 2ms VGA/DVI Rose Black 3 Year Onsite SWAP Warranty – ₤139 http://www.ebuyer.com/product/164043 or LG W2261VP 22' LCD Monitor 16:9 DVI HDMI Black – ₤133 http://www.amazon.co.uk/product-rev..._next_2?ie=UTF8&showViewpoints=0&pageNumber=2 or Benq G2222HDL – ₤135 http://www.ebuyer.com/product/177132 PSU: options True Power New 750 - 750W Antec Truepower New PSU, Modular, 120mm PWM Fan, 80+ Bronze – ₤93 http://www.scan.co.uk/Products/750W-Antec-Truepower-New-PSU-Modular-120mm-PWM-Fan-80plus-Bronze or, maybe I could get the blue fan led version if I buy the case with a window Blue True Power New 750 - 750W Antec Truepower New PSU, Modular, 120mm PWM Fan, 80+ Bronze – ₤104 http://www.ebuyer.com/product/159923 Common stuff subtotals: min ₤783 : max ₤978 And now the AMD CPU and Mobo: AMD CPU: Phenom II X4 955 – ₤120 http://www.aria.co.uk/SuperSpecials...re+955+Black+Edition+125W+C3+?productId=39930 AMD Mobo: ASUS M4A89GTD PRO/USB3 890GX – ₤112 http://www.ebuyer.com/product/198314 AMD CPU+Mobo Subtotal: ₤232 Or shall I get the i5 750? Intel CPU and mobo: Intel CPU: Intel Core i5 750 2.66GHz (Lynnfield) (Socket LGA1156) - Retail + Napoleon Total War [BX80605I5750] - ₤157 http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=CP-299-IN Intel Mobo: Asus P7P55D-E, Intel P55 Express, S1156, PCI-E 2.0 (x16), DDR3 2200(OC), SATA 6Gb/s, SATA RAID, ATX – ₤129 http://www.scan.co.uk/Products/Asus...-(x16)-DDR3-2200(OC)-SATA-6Gb-s-SATA-RAID-ATX or ASUS P7H55D-M EVO Socket 1156 i5/i7 VGA HDMI Out 8 Channel Audio MATX Motherboard – ₤102 http://www.ebuyer.com/product/190025 What’s the difference between these Intel mobos? If none, why the ₤27 difference? Intel CPU + Mobo subtotal: max ₤286 : min ₤259 AMD build total: max ₤1210 Intel build total: max ₤1264 So guys, which build would you go for and why? Any other suggestions are also very welcome. Maybe how I could make this build cheaper? (when I began my idea to build my approx budget was ₤600!) Or have I missed any important bits out? still reading?! thanks for doing so Hmm,quite a long post/essay - please do let me know if these are inappropriately long. GinZ
