Need Help Choosing a Graphics Card

[JJI56]

i just built a new computer the same as the one in my sig. I haven't decided on a graphics card yet. I was thinking about the Powercolor 9800se with 256bit mem and the same layout as a 9800 Pro. The speeds were also the same as a Pro. The only thing was that it had 4 pipelines but the memory was in an L shape. I heard that these could be softmodded to 9800 Pro. Has anyone done this before? This is the site where i found it
http://www.newegg.com/app/ViewProductDesc.asp?description=14-131-236&catalog=48&depa=0&section=4
Is this a good deal at $160? If you have any other cards in mind, please post. I'm looking to spend less than $200. Thanks

 

[V0ltage]

not worth it at all, it has very low chances of modding successfully, get a 9800pro for $200

 

[JJI56]

can softmodding damage the card?

 

[Master]

powercolor = bad
Se = bad

Get a 9800Pro for a little more, you wont regret it.

 

[UnseenClass]

I never saw the point in SE cards...what's the difference between them and the first edition?

 

[LabRat]

Originally posted by UnseenClass
I never saw the point in SE cards...what's the difference between them and the first edition?

SE=slower edition. It gives ATi a place to dump those cores that could not pass QC with all 8 pipes open.

Why would anyone want a core that ATi failed?

 

[JJI56]

The system is for my cousin. He doesn't need the greatest graphics technology. He barely ever plays games. He occasionly watches movies on it. Thats about it. Would the card be ok for that or is it so bad that he should avoid it at all costs?

 

[eLus1ve]

Then just get him a GF4MX440?

 

[V0ltage]

ti4200.... maybe a 9600NP

 

[Ocean]

ti4200 $80

 

[JJI56]

never mind. he decided to get the 9800 pro from gateway for 190. he wants to get into photo editing and editing home movies. thanks for you help