Custom Build configuration for Christmas

[DevgruSeal]

Looks very probable that I'm going to build a computer soon for Christmas, and I think I've got it just about configured. One of the ideas I kept in mind was that it must be future-proof, at least to the point where I'll have lots of options open to me to upgrade when I need to. So essentially, by "future-proof" I mean, "has a lot of options in the upgrade path".

Critique?

Motherboard:
GIGABYTE GA-X38T-DQ6 - X38 Chipset with DDR3 support.
Processor:
Intel Core 2 Quad Q6600 Kentsfield 2.4GHz
Memory:
Patriot 2x1GB DDR3 1600 (PC3 12800)
Video Card:
XFX 8800GT 512mb
Power Supply:
CORSAIR 620W - Suggestions for another high quality PSU at a relatively cheaper price would be appreciated
Cooler:
Thermalright Ultra-120 Extreme coupled with Scythe S-FLEX 120mm case fan.
Case:
Antec 900
Hard-drive
320GB Western Digital Caviar SE16 7200RPM (I'm open to suggestions for better hard-drives too, I haven't compared hard-drives at all :x)

And for soundcard, I have a SoundBlaster Audigy I'll transfer (Current computer can revert to onboard sound )

I considered looking at ASUS's Maximus Extreme, but overclocking will be most likely be done, and I read a few reviews that say GIGABYTE's motherboard outperformed the Maximus when overclocked. (Plus, GIGABYTE's is cheaper )

All-in-all, it's summing up to be about $1689, before mail-in rebates. Maybe it's just me, but that sounds like a stunning price for that much power.

 

[MRG]

Damn, that RAM sure is fast.

-MRG

 

[Gunner]

Buy everything on that list except the processor, use your current processor assuming it's LGA775, and wait for January's Q9000 series.

http://forums.extremeoverclocking.com/showthread.php?t=276246

 

[DevgruSeal]

My current processor is AMD Socket 939, so that wouldn't work

I could delay another month, but then I'll find out about another upcoming series, etc, haha.

 

[Javert]

I have a feeling your CPU, memory, and motherboard is making your system more costly than is actually needed.

I don't know what your budget is, but taking those component one level lower may not hurt you as much performance-wise, and may actually save you over a hundred dollars. I will have to agree with either waiting for the better Quad, or go for a Hi-end Dual Core for now.

 

[Killing2Live]

I have a feeling your CPU, memory, and motherboard is making your system more costly than is actually needed.

I don't know what your budget is, but taking those component one level lower may not hurt you as much performance-wise, and may actually save you over a hundred dollars. I will have to agree with either waiting for the better Quad, or go for a Hi-end Dual Core for now.

Yeah it is probably a better idea to not jump on the DDR3 bandwagon just yet - high latencies and way overpriced. You could spend quite a bit less for a equally good computer.

 

[DevgruSeal]

I was kind of wondering that -- If it would be worth investing in DDR3, keeping the future in mind.

I guess I'll go with some extra-high performance DDR2 and the GA-X38-DQ6 - the DDR2 equivalent motherboard, which should save quite a bit while still keeping a hefty amount of performance. Maybe even enough to get 4 gigs

One thing I'm wondering is this..The motherboard said the front-side bus is 1600/1333MHz, and supports DDR2 1066 - So, what would be the best combination to go with, and for an efficient overclock. For example, a 2gb memory module kit of the DDR2 1066 RAM and the E6750 (1333MHz FSB) is what I have changed in the cart, which cut down on the price significantly, but I don't know if all that aligns very well :|

 

[Javert]

That's an excellent question ... to ask Asus.