Building a Gaming Computer

[Computear]

Okay, this is my first time building a Gaming Computer... I'm new to these forums, thought I would post and see if anybody here can help me choose parts.

Trying to keep it under $1000 (excluding cost of OS)

Plan to use mainly for MMORPGs (currently: WoW) and running multiple programs in the background (music, videos, etc.). Want to run WoW at Ultra settings (except shadows).

I have no idea what I'm doing when it comes to CPU/motherboard, probably where I need the most help. Anything better, or cheaper that will more than handle my needs.

I want 4GB RAM, hard-drive space isn't a big one for me, 160G or 320G is more than enough, might upgrade to a 1TB drive just because its not that expensive. After a few hours of shopping at newegg.com I came up with the following parts. If anybody knows better/cheaper parts, or any reason *not* to use the following parts, or see any compatibility issues please help out:

CASE:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16811129021
or
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16811119137

POWER SUPPLY:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817341017

CPU: (consensus was P2 best for gaming)
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819103471

MOTHERBOARD:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813128387

VIDEOCARD:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814150394

HARD DRIVE:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16822136098

MEMORY:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820231166

DISC DRIVE:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16827118030


And I plan to buy Windows Vista Home Premium w/ the free upgrade to Windows 7 Home Premium (on oct22).

 

[Iontheable]

If your build is designed specifically to play games, I'd look at the 'Computer Builds' sticky at the top of these threads for a post by WorshipMe.

He lists some quality parts in the $5-600 range, if the computer is for gaming solely I'd suggest an AMD build.

That's my two cents.

 

[Computear]

If your build is designed specifically to play games, I'd look at the 'Computer Builds' sticky at the top of these threads for a post by WorshipMe.

He lists some quality parts in the $5-600 range, if the computer is for gaming solely I'd suggest an AMD build.

That's my two cents.

Any particular reason for the AMD build?

I did look at the Computer Builds post for ideas of parts... Still in the dark about motherboard/CPU to meet my needs without paying for power ill never need. Half tempted to just dig a bit deeper and build a super-computer ha.

Edit: I have a seperate rig for any classwork (my laptop) which is more than enough for it, so this rig's Primary Function will be gaming. Want top-notch gaming power, video&audio quality, within my budget of course. Not willing to spend over $2,000. Want to build it myself to save money, looking to spend less than $1,000 (before purchasing the OS, monitor, keyboard, etc.).

Oh; also any recommendations on a good monitor would be appreciated.

 

[jikifreak]

I recommend AMD as well, low cost, and they are REALLY awesome gaming CPU's.

I have a Phenom II X4 940 and couldn't be happier.

What TYPES of games are you going to play? What resolutions are you trying to achieve?

 

[Iontheable]

I recommend AMD as well, low cost, and they are REALLY awesome gaming CPU's.

I have a Phenom II X4 940 and couldn't be happier.

What TYPES of games are you going to play? What resolutions are you trying to achieve?

I have an i7 920 and sometimes I wish I had a Phenom II


Nevertheless, it's the best bang for your buck currently, imo.Many would agree.


@Op - You said you were still confused about the CPU/MOBO Configuration?

Just find any AM3 board that suites your needs.
-Does it have the proper amount of PCI/e slots?
-Does it have a decent layout?
-Will it fit my case?

Look at lower to mid priced boards that have good reviews. I'm not as familiar with AMD boards currently or I'd suggest one, I've been on an Intel kick since core2duo

Good Luck

 

[Whyfly??]

AMD Phenom II 940 BE

Motherboard
Right there is the perfect selection, it's like man and woman, a perfect combo that comes together

VisionTech 4870

G.Skill RAM

Power Supply

Total Price is $554.95 without rebates.
Now just add your choice of a hard drive, CD/DVD drive, and a case and you'll be all set
If you do get a case with a window, add in cathodes for like $5, it will make the case look awesome!
EDIT: Whoops don't forget an OS!

 

[wol-va-rine]

AMD Phenom II 940 BE

Motherboard
Right there is the perfect selection, it's like man and woman, a perfect combo that comes together

VisionTech 4870

G.Skill RAM

Power Supply

Total Price is $554.95 without rebates.
Now just add your choice of a hard drive, CD/DVD drive, and a case and you'll be all set
If you do get a case with a window, add in cathodes for like $5, it will make the case look awesome!
EDIT: Whoops don't forget an OS!

instead of that Visiontek 4870 512MB, I'd get the XFX 4870 1GB for the same price (the XFX has free shipping)...

 

[Russel1]

I recommend AMD as well, low cost, and they are REALLY awesome gaming CPU's.

I have a Phenom II X4 940 and couldn't be happier.

I would have to say the same thing!

 

[Whyfly??]

instead of that Visiontek 4870 512MB, I'd get the XFX 4870 1GB for the same price (the XFX has free shipping)...

Yeah... Get the XFX!
Well we got you all the performance parts, it's up to you to pick the preference parts, case, hard drive, etc.

 

[nevermind1534]

AMD's CPUs are cheaper for what they are, but Intel's are faster. If you have a budget, go with AMD. If you're fine with spending a lot, go with Intel.