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is this a good build?

N

nfrsbmschmck

n00b
Joined
Jul 7, 2008
Messages
18
So, some of you might have seen my pleas for help on getting a new motherboard and after hours and hours of research I have finally decided on these components. Before I list them, I have decided to not get an x48 board (or even one that has 2 PCI x 16 slots) because I just don't see myself ever needing Crossfire. So here is what I have decided on!

NEW STUFF
MOBO: GIGABYTE GA-EP45-DS3L
CPU: C2D E8400 3.0 GHz
RAM: Mushkin 2 x 2GB DDR800

OLD STUFF
PSU: Antec TruePower 2.0 550W
GPU: MSI 8800GT 512 MB

I am using this in a dual monitor set up, 2 SATA HDs, and 2 DVD Burners.

My biggest question is the RAM compatible. It wasn't on GIGABYTE's list, but it also did not seem like a very complete list (nothing over 1 GB?). My other choice was A-Data, which is on the list. Is that a better choice?
Also, I decided on the E8400, but should I go with a Quad core? I heard the 8400 is better for games than quad but should I get quad for the future?

Thanks!

Other than that, any suggestions?
 
If you'd like to keep your system longer than 2-3 yrs, get the quadcore. If you plan on upgrading in 2yrs, stick with the dual core since it will be enough for gaming for at least a couple years.

Does that TP2.0 have a high pitched whine when its powered on? If so, RMA it for an Earthwatts or NeoPower. Those things were notorious for their high failure rates due to crappy fuhjyyu caps being used with less than adequate cooling.

I don't think you can go wrong with either ram kit.

If you don't need dual GbLAN, dual 8x Crossfire support, and you don't think you'll ever use more than 8GB of RAM, get the GA-EP43-DS3L instead.

Do you plan on OC'ing? If so, pickup an aftermarket HSF, too:
$37 - XIGMATEK HDT-S1283 120mm Rifle CPU Cooler (highly recommended: $7 - XIGMATEK ACK-I7751 LGA775 Bolt-Thru-Kit)
 
You could save a few bucks by getting the GA-EP43-DS3L instead of the P45.
 
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