Collecting Info for Upgrade

[Bubblehead]

As the saying goes, there are only two types of devices - the experimental and the obsolete.

Can anyone tell me off hand what the best processor and motherboard available in the market now that will maintain competetive performance for the next 2-3 years? If I know I'll never catch up with the ever dynamic changes in the computer technology so.

I'll like to stay with the brand I've had - an Asus mobo and an AMD processor. Any recommendations so I can find out if my pocket can handle it?

Bubblehead

[ctjoyce]

I could go hunting for links, but I'll tell you if you want THE BEST motherboard, and a high end CPU + RAM to support it all your looking at a starting figure of $900. Then depending on your GPU situation you may need a new one too.

Cheers
Cameron

[congo]

Since you like Asus, you may as well be introduced to one of their finest boards at present.

http://www.asus.com/products4.aspx?mode ... l2=11&l3=0

And a matching CPU:

http://indigo.intel.com/compare_cpu/sho ... ture=en-US

[Bubblehead]

If I don't have all the cash I need at this time perhaps I can buy the motherboard and the processor, then the required RAM, followed by high end video. I may have to get a new case with 500W power supply but all my other peripherals (HD, optical, sound, etc.) should still work, right?

When I mentioned Asus, I meant their mobo compatible with AMD processors. I stick with the dual core at this point. Make sense?

Bubblehead

[congo]

No, it doesn't make any sense at all, the AMD platform is more expensive and not as powerful by a good margin.

[ctjoyce]

Also you HAVE to buy RAM. Unless your running a 945+ or a AM2 system already, you need DDR2 RAM. Core 2 and AM2 require DDR2 RAM, and CAN'T use normal DDR RAM. So your stuck buying RAM, Mobo, and CPU. Also with the video card, AM2 and Core 2 have yet to have a AGP slot on a board. They are all PCI-E, so if you have a PCI-E card then your fine, if not your in need of a new card too.

As for your PSU, I know its not for a while but heres the one you should think about (strongly) getting. Hiper Type R This is the best PSU I have ever encountered. It also comes in blue and red (they have matching LED fans to their case color. Black has no LED) depending on your color scheeme.

Cheers
Cameron

[GeForce]

It also comes in blue and red (they have matching LED fans to their case color. Black has no LED) depending on your color scheme.

Whilst I agree on the PSU, DON'T get the red or blue ones. The LED fans in these models are far louder than the non-LED fan of the black one.

For me silence is more important than lightning, and I have two cold cathodes in my system anyway.

Jon

[Delta_]

For me silence is more important than lightning, and I have two cold cathodes in my system anyway.

You should get that checked out, i'm not sure they are supposed to do that!  

[ctjoyce]

You should get that checked out, i'm not sure they are supposed to do that!  

Nope its true. The LED fans produce more noise, HOWEVER they do have a higher CFM. So more noise, but more airflow. Cooling is more important to me than silence.

Cheers
Cameron

[GeForce]

You should get that checked out, i'm not sure they are supposed to do that!  

Haha. Wondered where all the bright flashes were coming from

Jon