I want to build a dream system, one that will last years. I'll buy the components individually and build the computer myself, but I'm confused about deciding between components.
To give you an idea, I do not do heavy photo or video editing on my comptuer. I'm looking for the best gaming system I can build, with the best video graphics I can get. I also want a superfast computer which I won't have to replace for years. I'd rather make a large investment now and save on the future.
I don't know enough about computers to make the best decisions. I've read alot of articles on the internet, and used them to narrow down the best components for each category, but when it comes down to choosing between two great choices, I don't know what the right choice is.
I would appreciate any advice in helping me choose between the below choices, from people much more informed than me.
Processor:
I'm split between the Intel Core 2 Duo Extreme QX6700 and the Intel Core 2 Duo Extreme X6800. The QX6700 is quad core, but do i really need that? It also has a larger cache (8mb L2) than the X6800 (4mb L2). Is it worth buying the quad-core, considering most applications or games wouldn't take advantage of it?
Motherboard:
I just don't know what motherboard to take. I read that the 975 XBX2 (bad axe 2 motherboard) is the best, but is it? I don't know enough about motherboards to choose. I want to run Vista 64-bit on it.
Graphics:
Again I'm split, I don't know whats the best from among the following: (1) The NVIDIA GeForce 8800 GTX SLI. (2) XFX 7950 GX2 Quad SLI. (3) ATI X1900 CrossFire Edition (4) ATI Radeon X1950
I intend to get at least one 30 inch display, so I'll need a video card that can put out a resolution of 2560x1600 for up to 2 monitors.
Will I need to get a liquid cooling system for this sort of setup? What about a power source with higher wattage? Will it be necessary?
I'd appreciate any help in narrowing it down, I don't have the necessary knowledge to make the best choice. I know its alot, but if you can offer any advice on any of the above categories, or on anything else I need to consider to build the best system, please help.
Thanks!