Single GPU v 2 GPU

[Derek W]

I'm putting together the final specs to my new build with the intention of getting an Ivy Bridge CPU when they're released.

See post - http://forums.overclockers.co.uk/showpost.php?p=21625115&postcount=23

now I've been thinking about stretching my budget for a GTX580 3Gb card instead of the one listed. Are there any advantages / disadvantages over a large single GPU over 2 lesser cards in xfire (Budget up to £350)

The rest of the system will be

mobo and ram as above, Crucial M4 128gb SSD, Western Digital HDD 2Tb + 1Tb, LG BH10LS38 10x BluRay-RW / 16 x DVD±RW Lightscribe Drive, Corsair H80 CPU cooler, Corsair 600T White case, and re using an Antec 750W PSU.

EDIT.

The PC will mainly used for Photoshop / Lightroom with some gaming as well.

 

[Derek W]

I'd get a single card solution, they're generally less hassle with drivers/etc.

I'd go 7970/680 over the 580, however the 580 will be cheaper of course..

I cant really justify the price increase of the 7970 / 680 over the 580. I'd already increased the budget to go for that card in the first place.

 

[Derek W]

cheers for the input. Think I'll stick with the one card but if rusty and sehcure want to chuck me a couple of hundred quid I'll happily push the boat out for a 680

 

[Derek W]

Ha ha sure - as soon as I get a new motherboard and buy another for myself first

But do check out the performance of the 7950. I'm not sure what the price is of it compared to the 580 these days if you look around on the net but it's a good buy. Unless you hate AMD of course

I'm using a 5770 at the mo in my pc. So i dont hate AMD, just prefer Nividia