Dual Graphics cards or a single?

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Flashpoint1

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I am building a new system for a graphics design workstation. The majority of work is done in 2D, in programs like Photoshop, Indesign, etc etc. Realizing that those programs rely mostly on the CPU rather than the GPU, I am looking for some help deciding on a graphics card. One thing to note is that I will not keep the unit beyond 2 years, so it needs to be top notch for 2 years and then will be replaced.

Here are the cards I am considering


512MB PCIe x16 nVidia Quadro FX1700

256MB PCIe x16 nVidia Quadro FX570

Dual 256MB PCIe x16 nVidia Quadro FX570

Dual 256MB PCIe x16 nVidia NVS 290

ATI Fire GL V3600 256MB


The first question is, would it be better to have the dual FX 570s for the same price as the FX 1700? Considering I don't do much in the way of 3D perhaps two isn't necessary? I just want to make sure everything is fast and sharp. I also am not sure what the next generation of Photoshop and illustrator will look like and perhaps they will have architecture that will use the GPU more? I am leaning toward the V3600 ATI due to some benchmarking tests for 2D graphics. I am looking for all suggestions!
 
Photoshop CS4 is rumored to have GPU accleration, but you'll have to wait until October for that. Naturally, After Effects and Premiere have had this forever, but the fact that Photoshop is getting it will be nice. Right now, your video card matters zip when using Photoshop and everything is done on the CPU.

One FX1700 should be more than adequate for your needs. The V3600 is also a good card. However, this is all dependent on Creative Suite 4, which is supposedly coming out in October but nobody really knows for sure. Until then, your workstation card is not going to do you anything for 2D, and even after that only Photoshop and maybe Illustrator. I personally don't see any need for them to add GPU acceleration to InDesign, but they could pull out a surprise.
 
personally, for what you are doing.. Single Card, dual monitor.. screen realestate is a premium and greater than any GPU acceleration that "might" be there in the future (which you will get anyways, even with a single card)..
 
i understand that 3d modelers use quadro cards because of some enhanced functionality made possible by the quadro drivers. since you're working on photoshop, might it be better to buy a noncommercial video card and spend more on a multiple monitor setup?
 
Here is the thing, I don't even use more than one monitor. Anything that is used for proofing or whatever is made into a hard copy. So if I go single card who thinks I can go with something like a NVS 290 or should I stick to the more expensive FX 1700. I have heard that the GPU useage for CS 4 is a rumor and not likely to actually happen, so I am in agreement, probably not much need for high end card. But again we aren't talking "integrated graphics", I am looking for something to be adequate or above average for the job!
 
Flashpoint1 said:
Here is the thing, I don't even use more than one monitor. Anything that is used for proofing or whatever is made into a hard copy. So if I go single card who thinks I can go with something like a NVS 290 or should I stick to the more expensive FX 1700. I have heard that the GPU useage for CS 4 is a rumor and not likely to actually happen, so I am in agreement, probably not much need for high end card. But again we aren't talking "integrated graphics", I am looking for something to be adequate or above average for the job!
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The thing is, however, with the way the applications are currently, if you only use one monitor then even integrated graphics would be good for the job! The CPU will matter 1000x more since the GPU won't even be touched (aside from outputting everything to the screen, of course) until CS4 comes out.
 
Use a Mac? hehehe... j/k i'm a graphic designer that uses PC in a mac industry...
 
d8168055 said:
Use a Mac? hehehe... j/k i'm a graphic designer that uses PC in a mac industry...
Click to expand...

Yeah... macs are good for people who like to pay $800-$1000 more than what they would normally pay for a comparable PC. :)
 
Considering I don't do much in the way of 3D perhaps two isn't necessary
Click to expand...

you don't need a quatro then at all, if your not using any 3d apps like 3d studio or Maya, you might as well buy a 7300 or something as it wont affect what you do. or if you just dabble in it get a 9600 or something, otherwise as said, just get integrated
 
Actually the way I am building this system it is getting strangely up into MAC pricing. In the graphic design industry it is obviously typical for everyone to work on a mac but I am an old time gamer and overclocker so I am sticking to the PC. I'm so old my favorite games are still MUDs!

So I am leaning toward ATI Fire GL V3600 just because I like ATI better and perhaps CS 4 will utilize the GPU perhaps not. But I might stick something in every now and then, I do have a soft spot for serious Sam and after 20 hours on a design project killing stuff looks pretty good!

Any thoughts on

ATI Fire GL V3600 256MB
or
256MB PCIe x16 nVidia Quadro FX570


For this machine!
 
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