This is my first post on Hexus so firstly I want to say a warm hello
I've been reading a fair number of reviews on here and now I've got a bunch of questions to ask about building a new system.
This is only the second PC I've built, the first was with heavy assistance, this time i'm going solo.
My main issue is whether in the current market it'd be best for me to go with the Bloomfield architecture or to opt for the latest which is Lynnfield?
I'm looking for a long lasting PC which will be effective for gaming for a number of years. I am also quite an audiophile. I want this PC to be a long term solution for my needs for the next 4-5 years if possible so if people have recommendations or any tips or pointers they'd be greatly appreciated.
System Outline:
CPU – Intel Core 7 Lynnfield 860
Motherboard – Asus P7P55D Deluxe / Intel Extreme DP5KG – P55
Cooling – Artic Cooling Freezer Pro Rev 2
Power Supply - Be Quiet Dark Power Pro 650W
Graphics – Ati Radeon HD 5870
Memory - Corsair Dominator DDR3 (3 x 2GB) 6GB 1600 MHZ
Hard Disc - SSDSA2MH080G2C1 - 80GB Intel MLC-Flash, 2.5" SSD
Sound Card - Asus Xonar Essence STX
Case - Corsair Osibian 800D
Total Cost = 1,463 from Scan.co.uk
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main questions:
1) 1156 or 1366 architecture?
2) Get the Radeon HD 5870 (which could be doubled up later) or wait around for the GTX 300?
3) Considering future expansion, would a 650 Watt power supply be enough?
4) Memory (RAM), what would be the best latency / speed modules I could get with this kind of setup, [or one you propose as an alternative]. I'm unclear on how to judge what I need here.
I'm looking around the £1500 mark, I could push the budget a little for a component or two that is worth that extra. If you're unsure as to why i've made certain decisions, e.g. the odd HD choice then i'll clarify
I know it's a lot in one go, apologies for that, I also apologise if this is in the wrong section. Anybody able to help with some tips or pointers? I'm prepared to do the reading so if anybody wants to link me to helpful topics then please do so
Darren