New machine, core.

[Jdz]

Right now as you can see my current machine is a bomb and I am lucky enough just to be able to play Counter-Strike Source just sufficiently. Partly my fault for thinking the Graphics Card was 'all that', though got to learn from your mistakes I suppose.

Anyway, moving in to a new house that we've built in about 4/5 months times and should be getting a new rig and would like to hopefully convince the folks of getting a good one. So anyway without rambling on telling a short life story.

Basically I'm looking at getting a 8800GTX, would like to keep the budget at around $2,000 - $2,300 (AUD). I'd like to keep the basic components from this current machine (drives, monitor, speakers, etc.) Need recommendations for:

• CPU (Core Duo)
• Motherboard
• Memory
• Case (and cheap quality cooling)

Also since this will be awhile away, are there any significant changes in Hardware expected any time this year? I am looking for the machine to last for as long as possible and wouldn't mind 100fps in CSS. (:chk: )

Any suggestions?
Cheers,

 

[Big B]

The 8800's are very power hungry, so you may want to factor in a new PSU to power the video card and the upgrade.

You might find better deals, but for reference, I'm using links from GameDude that you can order from in Aus.

Motherboard: MSI P965 Neo-F $149
CPU: Core 2 Duo E6320 retail $229
RAM: Corsair XMS2 PC6400 2x1GB $209
Case: CoolerMaster Centurion 5 $95
PSU: Thermaltake Toughpower 750 $209
Total: $891 (+tax+shipping)

If you're hard drive isn't SATA, you might want to consider jumping on one because motherboards with 2 IDE ports (aka PATA) are fading away.

This Western Digital 160GB SATA drive is $69, which is pretty cheap, even for Australian prices. Add that to the above total and you come to:

Total: $960 (+tax+shipping)