Shuttle XPC SX48P2-Deluxe Barebone System

philstanbridge · 2 Nov 2008 at 15:05

Expensive yes but is it worth it? I'm considering selling my Inspiron system here and upgrading to one of these. I'll have a E8500, 4GB ram, a couple of opticals, a 300GB HD, a X-fi Gamer and (at present) a 4850. I'd like to upgrade the VGA to a 4870 eventually and would like a new HD - would the 450 watt psu cope do you think or is that pushing it?

I know these things can run quite hot and I don't want a noisy system so maybe I'm barking up the wrong tree but I like the flexibility of this.

ninja2000 · 3 Nov 2008 at 14:12

I dont have that particular model but I have owned many shuttles so can answer a few of your questions.
1. there is only two slots (2x pci-e with sx48 I believe) so you will have to choose your components carefully. If you get a dual slot gfx card you wont be able to put a x-fi in it.
2. There is only room for 1 optical drive.
3. These are difficult boxes to get quiet! the PSU is reportedly noisy. Most people change the fans out especially if its on your desk.
4 The PSU should cope with a 4870 fine, they work really well considering their low rating. I had a Q6600 and a 8800gt in a 250w shuttle

philstanbridge · 3 Nov 2008 at 18:03

Thanks very much for the advice. I've decided to stick with a standard atx desktop. I can't be done with the noise!

ninja2000 · 4 Nov 2008 at 09:15

you have saved yourself a lot of hassle

I love the size of shuttles but each one comes with its own bag of problems!

WoZZeR · 4 Nov 2008 at 17:54

Actually pondering upgrading from my SD37P2 to one of these at Xmas.

They are good machines but have limitations.

One optical drive is plenty for me and I have squeezed 2 GFX cards in mine but will be replacing both for just the one new one shortly.

The on board sound is OK for general use IMHO.