New computer suggestions

[gnusmas645]

Hi,

I'm looking to change my computer to something more graphics friendly.
I use 3dsMax and do some gaming (RTS, FPS and Role Playing).

I was told that this configuration (see below) was a good choice but I'm not convinced.

I'm open to suggestions in the $2000/Cdn range (approx $1700/USD)
This system (below) was priced at $1700/Cdn

MSI P965 Neo-F
Intel C2D E6600
2x 1024MB 667
Seagate 400G Sata 2 16MB HDD
ASUS EN 7950GT 512 MB PCI-E
ATX Antec Sonata 2 450watts

I'm not sure the PSU supplied with the Sonata 2 is SLI compatible
I'm almost certain that the Motherboard isn't either.

Should I fork out the extra $$ and go with something that is SLI compatible?
I was told it makes a big difference. Was I ill-informed?


Thanks for your help

 

[Apoxi]

with 1700 dollars US you could price out a rig with an 8800gts.

 

[GMoney42392]

with 1700 dollars US you could price out a rig with an 8800gts.

yes, easily. i recommend an e6300 + asus p5b-e 650i mobo + 8800gts and keeping everything else you mentioned. you'll also want ddr2-800 if yo go this route. that will get you a much faster system for not too much more, if i did the math right.

 

[gnusmas645]

Thanks guys

After taking your suggestions into account I decided to go with this setup:

Case: ANTEC SONATA II BLACK 450W (with different PSU to support SLI)
Mobo: ASUS P5N32-E SLI NF680i (Is this overkill?)
Processor: C2D E6400 or E6600 (Not sure if it’s worth the extra $$ for now)
Memory: KINGSTON KVR 800MHZ DDR2 2048
Hard Drive: SEAGATE 400MB SATA2 7200.10 16M
Video Card: ASUS PCIE GF8 EN8800GTS 640M
Optical Drive: DVD+/-RW LITEON

Approx $1900 US