First build queries - if anyone has the time to answer some questions?

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21 Aug 2014
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Hello!

In the process of picking parts for a new build. Looking to build a decent rig that will (most importantly) stand the test of time. I'll be using it for everything from word processing, music production, HD video editing and maybe some gaming somewhere down the road.

My first question relates to the PSU. Basically I'm wanting to cover my back without going over the top. Thins to consider: I will not be buying a graphics card straight away but will most likely go for a mid-high end card somewhere in the future, so I'm taking this into consideration.

The PSU I'm looking at is the EVGA Supernova 650W G1 Gold Modular PSU. Hoping this will be reliable and powerful enough.

The rest of the components will be (please give me tips if the set-up isn't ideal, I'm new to this :P):

- Intel Core i7 4790K - 4+4 Cores @ 4Ghz (Turbo 4.4Ghz) + 8MB CACHE
- ASUS Z97-K - USB2.0, USB3.0, SATA6 + XFIRE
- 16GB DDR3 2133Mhz - KINGSTON Hyper-X Predator
- Be Quiet! Shadow Rock 2 CPU Cooler - Ultra Quiet Option
- Samsung 840 EVO 250GB
- Seagate 1TB 3.5 inch 7200RPM 64MB Cache SATA3

these aren't set in stone.

Might also add HDD's too if needed. And will probably have 4 x 120mm fans going.

So what ya think?

Thanks in advance.
 
RE: the PSU. It hasn't had stellar reviews - nor especially bad ones. It's not built by EVGAs usual supplier (Superflower make their G2 PSUs I believe). Regardless of that I have one and so far I'm impressed. It feels well built, has a nice textured finish and the supplied cables are really nice when you consider the cost. I've had no trouble but like you I bought it with the view to upgrade to a high end GPU later so I haven't particularly stressed it.

Based on that I would be happy to recommend one. If you are only planning to use one GPU in future then it will be more than up to the job. My understanding is that a good 550W gold will pull off an R9 290X (although I believe that is somewhat near it's limit). At present in my main rig I have the Superflower Goldengreen 550W with a 4690K and R9 280X without trouble. Neither are overclocked.

Edit: Here is the review I mentioned. All in all it's decent and gets a pass from them but doesn't blow them away for sure. Also note the review refers to an older version that had a handle and different cabling. I'm not sure if the changes made since were purely cosmetic. Would be good to get more reviews.
 
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EVGA are a great brand, that is for sure. There g2 PSUs are stunning, as are the suoerflower leader and HX green series (as above, same PSU design).

A 550w HX green will easily run the proposed rig + GTX 970/980.

The spec looks really good.
 
Thanks for the replies guys!

The PSU looks like it'll do the job. Can find it for about £75 - £85. Haven't seen any other psu with these features for a similar price.

Braided cables look like a nice touch too. Never been anal about cabling before but I'd like this build to be semi clean.
 
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