Spec please!

Spuderoony · 23 Jul 2007 at 20:52

Right, like many others, I'm planning to get a new computer this week to take advantage of Intel CPU price drops. I need everything except: mouse, speakers, headphones. Currently running 3200 64bit (754), 1gb pc3200, 6800gt, all stock, which at 3 years old is showing its age.

I need a monitor, but I already have a 32" HDTV which I run my films through. So it just needs to be a 20-22" one that's good for games.

Is the Q6600 the best CPU to go for now then? Or is it actually worth paying the premium for the next ones up? I understand AMD is a bit impotent these days, but it'll be a change for me as I've been AMD for my last 4 computers, I think! Was thinking of pairing the Q6600 with 2/4gb of RAM and an 8800. If anyone has any specific spec ideas (especially when it comes to motherboards - I'm very behind on these), I'd be grateful.

Budget is sort of flexible, but I was thinking 650-800 or so.

Thanks folks.

stickroad · 23 Jul 2007 at 21:27

Will you be overclocking?

Spuderoony · 23 Jul 2007 at 23:10

I don't mind doing a little, although I've done anything besides a basic CPU/Gfx one. But yeah, will probably do a bit, but nothing extreme.

Spuderoony · 24 Jul 2007 at 23:13

Anyone?

Windle · 24 Jul 2007 at 23:36

Wouldn't bother with the quad.

Also with a budget that low i doubt you'll be able to get a 22" monitor.

Microsoft Windows Vista Home Premium 64-Bit Edition DVD - OEM - 1Pk
Intel Core 2 Duo E6600 "LGA775 Conroe" 2.40GHz (1066FSB) - Retail (Should Clock to 3ghz)
Tuniq Tower 120 CPU Cooler (Socket 478/754/939/940/AM2/LGA775)
Abit IP35 Pro (Socket 775) PCI-Express DDR2 Motherboard
G.Skill 2GB DDR2 HZ PC2-6400C4 (2x1GB) CAS4 Dual Channel Kit X2 (4gb total)
Western Digital Caviar SE16 500GB 5000AAKS SATA-II 16MB Cache - OEM
Samsung SH-183LBEBN 18x18 DVD±RW Dual Layer Serial ATA Lightscribe
Corsair HX 520W ATX2.2 Modular SLI Compliant PSU
Lian-Li PC-7 PLUS Aluminium Midi-Tower Case - Black

Total : £780ish (As you can see your budget won't go far as this doesn't include monitor or graphics) This is the current spec i'm considering which somebody else recommended.

Add a graphics card of your choice + monitor and your easily over 1k. Maybe drop to 2gb RAM, Drop Vista and save a bit of cash but it's all preference really.

Spuderoony · 25 Jul 2007 at 22:31

The quad's not worth the money then?

I could probably squeeze it up to a grand and run on my current monitor for a while if needs be. Thanks for the list, though!

1337z0r · 25 Jul 2007 at 22:33

If I was in the market for a CPU I would go for a quad they are £30 more than the E6600 which is a good CPU and it saves you from having to upgrade your CPU for a while. For £30 more can resist two more cores in your CPU?