New build specs - your opinions please.

[NightshadowUK]

Even if he has the money I wouldn't go for the GTX280, it's really overpriced, for a little more money better get an SLI GTX 260 if you wan't an Nvidia card, or just stick with a single GTX260 lol

In most cases HD4870 > GTX260, plus it costs less. And as for SLi... *shudders*

[Powderhound]

The rumour is that the Q9450 will be discontinued this weekend and the price of the Q9550 will drop to replace it, so you might want to look out for that.

[robtotheb]

Thanks for all the help guys, it really helped. He was shocked with all the fast replies. The parts are ordered and on the way.

One thing I have never been able to master is tidying up the internal wiring once the system is built, has anyone got tips and links on how to improve?

[Olmy]

I'm not sure what case you chose, but the Antec P182 allows you to route cables behind the motherboard which reduces clutter drastically. Also you can bundle unused cables with cable ties and fasten them to holes in the case where they are out of the way and hidden.

[Mithrandir]

Thanks for all the help guys, it really helped. He was shocked with all the fast replies. The parts are ordered and on the way.

One thing I have never been able to master is tidying up the internal wiring once the system is built, has anyone got tips and links on how to improve?

Neat cabling can be tricky. I've definitely NOT mastered it yet
But heres some general tips:

Tuck cables behind the mobo side of the panel
Tuck cables in unused 5.25" bay
Bunch up cables with velcro ties or zip ties
Get sleeving kits

[staffsMike]

Pretty sure the cosmos, if thats the case you are getting has the same cable management system as the P182 so it should be easy to get right, especially with a modular PSU but even if it's a standard one it should still be pretty easy