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The (new) Official PC building thread!
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AfterDawn Addict
2 product reviews
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3. February 2008 @ 10:22 |
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Maybe you got bad cards. My 3850 runs just fine. It's basically the same card with lower clocks.
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AfterDawn Addict
4 product reviews
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3. February 2008 @ 10:26 |
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Two of them both exhibit the same issues, corrupted 2D text and lag whenever new game sections are loaded. The X1900XT, also running Catalyst 8.1, never exhibited either of these issues.
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AfterDawn Addict
2 product reviews
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3. February 2008 @ 10:27 |
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Well I'm not getting them. Ask Ray and Greg. If they are fine too then you just have bad luck.
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3. February 2008 @ 13:50 |
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Hello Guys and Gals, I spose this is the correct place to post this question :)
I am thinking of upgrading my computer due to issues I have been having and am wondering which of the two CPUs the E6550 or E4500 I should get.
Obviously the E6550 should be better as it is about £30 more than the E4500, but would I really notice that much improvement for the money.
Another option would be the Q6600 - which is £50 quid more than the E6550.
PS I am thinking of putting it in the following MOBO:-
MOTHERBOARD
with the following RAM:-
RAM
in the following case:-
CASE
And it will be powered by the Corsair HX520 I recently purchased.
I mainly use my computer for watching films and transcoding/encoding, with the odd game maybe being played but usually not graphic entensive games (I like Point and Click games like Monkey Island etc :))
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AfterDawn Addict
2 product reviews
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3. February 2008 @ 13:58 |
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AfterDawn Addict
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3. February 2008 @ 14:43 |
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Originally posted by Pepp77:
Hello Guys and Gals, I spose this is the correct place to post this question :)
I am thinking of upgrading my computer due to issues I have been having and am wondering which of the two CPUs the E6550 or E4500 I should get.
Obviously the E6550 should be better as it is about £30 more than the E4500, but would I really notice that much improvement for the money.
Another option would be the Q6600 - which is £50 quid more than the E6550.
MOTHERBOARD
RAM
CASE
And it will be powered by the Corsair HX520 I recently purchased.
I mainly use my computer for watching films and transcoding/encoding, with the odd game maybe being played but usually not graphic entensive games (I like Point and Click games like Monkey Island etc :))
AsRock mobos aren't normally that well excepted and abuzar has recommended a good mobo for NOT many more quid. ;)
If you could post some sort of budget to follow that would make suggestions easier. We all want to provide the best products possible but NOT knowing what we can spend of your money makes it difficult. lol.
Your logic may be a little off on the more expensive is better but it's close. ;) For instance the E6850 is about $280 and the E8400 is about $230 but if I were choosing right now I prolly would get the E8400 even tho I have the E6850 and it's DANG good. ;) Anyway if you can go the QUAD route go that way and if NOT then the E6750 is a good choice. :D
I like that case, it has good functionality and it's pretty simple. ;) There are others out there but a case is personal preference.
If you can find RAM (PC2-6400...4-4-4-12 timings) for less and it's NAME brand (Corsair, OCZ, Crucial, mushkin, G.Skill) I would consider it. Sometimes a search brings about GREAT deals. :D
good luck to you.....
....gm
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AfterDawn Addict
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3. February 2008 @ 14:46 |
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Pepp77,
For your planned use, go with the E6550. The extra 2 MB of L2 cache makes a big difference when encoding video. The E6550 also has better GO stepping. Should be good for around 3.0GHz to 3.2GHz or so with PC6400 DDR2-800GHz memory, overclocked. It has a lower CPU multiplier at 7x than the E4500's 11x. Realistically, they both should do about the same, but the extra 2 MB of L2 cache memory would better suit your needs. If you plan to overclock or play games, avoid motherboards with on-board graphics as they don't do too well. Even if you add a PCIe 16x video card, there are still some limitations on the memory related to the OB Graphics and chipset limitations. Asrock motherboards are OK, but not very durable. They seem to last about 2-3 months past the warranty period. I've seen some last longer, but I've also replaced a ton of them that failed in about a year and a half. Memory isn't bad for the price, but it is cas 5. Cas4 would be a better choice.
greensman,
Quote:
Obviously the E6550 should be better as it is about £30 more than the E4500, but would I really notice that much improvement for the money.
Yes, you would. The extra 2 MB cache makes a big difference, especially when video encoding!
Best Regards,
Russ
GigaByte 990FXA-UD5 - AMD FX-8320 @4.0GHz @1.312v - Corsair H-60 liquid CPU Cooler - 4x4 GB GSkill RipJaws DDR3/1866 Cas8, 8-9-9-24 - Corsair 400-R Case - OCZ FATAL1TY 550 watt Modular PSU - Intel 330 120GB SATA III SSD - WD Black 500GB SATA III - WD black 1 TB Sata III - WD Black 500GB SATA II - 2 Asus DRW-24B1ST DVD-Burner - Sony 420W 5.1 PL-II Suround Sound - GigaByte GTX550/1GB 970 Mhz Video - Asus VE247H 23.6" HDMI 1080p Monitor
 This message has been edited since posting. Last time this message was edited on 3. February 2008 @ 14:55
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Member
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3. February 2008 @ 15:38 |
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Thanks for the replies guys. I really hate buying new PCs there's just too many options.
My budget is approximately £250 for Case, MOBO, CPU and Ram.
I think the E6550 would suit me perfectly, and at £50ish quid less than the Q6600 it makes my budget easier.
The case is simple you are correct, but for some reason I really like it and its decently priced.
The reason I am looking at that site is that they will install the MOBO, CPU and ram into the case and warranty the build for 12 months for only £12.50 and Im not really upto building it myself.
I have read a couple of reviews of the mobo I was looking at and have completely decided noway hosay lol
However they do have the following ones:-
ASUS ONE
ASUS TWO
Obviously if someone knows another English site that will build the parts Im happy to have a look.
To add, I am planning on using my two current SATA HDDs and my 8500GT GPU (Yes I know its rubbish, will upgrade to one with HDMI at some point) in the build so those parts are not an issue.
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bigwill68
Suspended permanently
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3. February 2008 @ 15:51 |
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@Pepp77
Originally posted by Pepp77:
Hello Guys and Gals, I spose this is the correct place to post this question :)
I am thinking of upgrading my computer due to issues I have been having and am wondering which of the two CPUs the E6550 or E4500 I should get.
Obviously the E6550 should be better as it is about £30 more than the E4500, but would I really notice that much improvement for the money.
Another option would be the Q6600 - which is £50 quid more than the E6550.
PS I am thinking of putting it in the following MOBO:-
MOTHERBOARD
with the following RAM:-
RAM
in the following case:-
CASE
And it will be powered by the Corsair HX520 I recently purchased.
I mainly use my computer for watching films and transcoding/encoding, with the odd game maybe being played but usually not graphic entensive games (I like Point and Click games like Monkey Island etc :))
On the mobo tip..I would'en go with nothing else but a gigabyte mobo
http://www.gigabyte.com.tw/Products/Moth...?ProductID=2746 don't get me wrong.i dont do much gaming myself on my computer the few games.i do have the gigbyte dont let me down.uc,i'm into alot of transcoding/encoding myself and mult tasking all at once..I found out the e8400 cpu went on sale days after.i just got the e6750 for $189.I heard e8400 stays alittle cooler..dang i wish.i would have waited alittle longer to get it.but.on my next built.i will it's your choice cpu,now on the mobo.I would get the gigabyte..hands down the case what looks cool to you remember more fans you have the better the cooling..
Done out of Here!
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AfterDawn Addict
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3. February 2008 @ 15:53 |
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Pepp77,
I would go with Abuzar's suggestion of the GigaByte GA-P35-DS3R. It's my motherboard of choice and it Rocks. Supports all the new and up coming CPUs. Best motherboard I've ever owned! Far better customer service and tech support if needed, than brand x! Much faster service if you should have a problem!
Go back one page and check out my post of the performance, video encoding with DVD ReBuilder/Cinema Craft Encoder, 2 pass. It's outstanding!
Best Regards,
Russ
GigaByte 990FXA-UD5 - AMD FX-8320 @4.0GHz @1.312v - Corsair H-60 liquid CPU Cooler - 4x4 GB GSkill RipJaws DDR3/1866 Cas8, 8-9-9-24 - Corsair 400-R Case - OCZ FATAL1TY 550 watt Modular PSU - Intel 330 120GB SATA III SSD - WD Black 500GB SATA III - WD black 1 TB Sata III - WD Black 500GB SATA II - 2 Asus DRW-24B1ST DVD-Burner - Sony 420W 5.1 PL-II Suround Sound - GigaByte GTX550/1GB 970 Mhz Video - Asus VE247H 23.6" HDMI 1080p Monitor
This message has been edited since posting. Last time this message was edited on 3. February 2008 @ 15:55
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bigwill68
Suspended permanently
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3. February 2008 @ 16:06 |
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@theonejrs
Originally posted by theonejrs:
Pepp77,
I would go with Abuzar's suggestion of the GigaByte GA-P35-DS3R. It's my motherboard of choice and it Rocks. Supports all the new and up coming CPUs. Best motherboard I've ever owned! Far better customer service and tech support if needed, than brand x! Much faster service if you should have a problem!
Go back one page and check out my post of the performance, video encoding with DVD ReBuilder/Cinema Craft Encoder, 2 pass. It's outstanding!
Best Regards,
Russ
true indeed brother outstanding..I use convertx2dvd software.I got outstanding increase sense.i stepped up to a new built from the old with the old like 4 hours to convert that was a half a days work on the job..lol now its 23 to 15 mins to covert a full movie depends on the process.
Done out of Here!
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AfterDawn Addict
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3. February 2008 @ 16:17 |
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MGR (Micro Gaming Rig) .|. Intel Q6600 @ 3.45GHz .|. Asus P35 P5K-E/WiFi .|. 4GB 1066MHz Geil Black Dragon RAM .|. Samsung F60 SSD .|. Corsair H50-1 Cooler .|. Sapphire 4870 512MB .|. Lian Li PC-A70B .|. Be Queit P7 Dark Power Pro 850W PSU .|. 24" 1920x1200 DGM (MVA Panel) .|. 24" 1920x1080 Dell (TN Panel) .|. |
AfterDawn Addict
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3. February 2008 @ 16:32 |
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Bigwill68,
Quote:
true indeed brother outstanding..I use convertx2dvd software.
I use Win-Avi. I've also used DVD Santa, but Win-Avi is far better! I don't download very much from the net as the quality varies so much. I prefer to rip the DVD and run it through DVDRB/CCE, 2 pass if the compression is high. Otherwise I use DVD Shrink, which uses a transcoder instead of a true encoder. The quality I get is excellent.
Best Regards,
Russ
GigaByte 990FXA-UD5 - AMD FX-8320 @4.0GHz @1.312v - Corsair H-60 liquid CPU Cooler - 4x4 GB GSkill RipJaws DDR3/1866 Cas8, 8-9-9-24 - Corsair 400-R Case - OCZ FATAL1TY 550 watt Modular PSU - Intel 330 120GB SATA III SSD - WD Black 500GB SATA III - WD black 1 TB Sata III - WD Black 500GB SATA II - 2 Asus DRW-24B1ST DVD-Burner - Sony 420W 5.1 PL-II Suround Sound - GigaByte GTX550/1GB 970 Mhz Video - Asus VE247H 23.6" HDMI 1080p Monitor
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Member
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3. February 2008 @ 17:32 |
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Hows about this combination (remember I need it built for me):-
MOBO - This site only has one £150 Gigabyte MOBO, and thats an AMD).
CPU
RAM
in the same case or one of these two maybe:-
CASE ONE
CASE TWO
Not sure if i prefer door or no door.
Total Cost £256 (£261 with other case) Built
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AfterDawn Addict
4 product reviews
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3. February 2008 @ 17:39 |
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AfterDawn Addict
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3. February 2008 @ 17:49 |
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shafaaf the CM-690 is a good case and I like it. :)
Pepp77,
I looked back at your "needs" and what Russ said and the E6550 would fit your needs and indeed save a few quid. lol (lots of ANDS there....)
@ALL,
I'm having problems with the P35C mobos. For some reason I don't see the benefits of using a mobo that can utilize both form factors but NOT at the same time. DDR2 RAM is so inexpensive right now and REALLY good that DDR3 offers no clear advantages to me. My opinion I know.... ;P
....gm
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AfterDawn Addict
4 product reviews
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3. February 2008 @ 17:51 |
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I'm pretty sure when I ordered mine it was barely any different in price to the normal P35 board, but if the latter was significantly cheaper, I'd probably buy that instead.
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AfterDawn Addict
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3. February 2008 @ 17:54 |
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/me hugs little sammy....hehehe.
NICE recommendation on the CM-Centurian... :D
Pepp77 what happended to the Corsair RAM?? Anyone know anything about the GEIL Black Dragon rAM?? lol
....gm
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AfterDawn Addict
6 product reviews
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3. February 2008 @ 17:57 |
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well I know that most here are pro gigabyte but I am still an asus fanboy. with asus you get what you pay for. I bought one of their flagship mobos (P5W DH Deluxe WiFi) and it has been the best mobo I have ever owned. yea it cost over $100 than other asus mobos (P5N-E for example) but look at what I got. awesome OC'er and trouble free. I also had an asus P4P800 SE which was very popular and an excellent mobo.
ppl here can go right ahead and be pro gigabyte but if they're badmouthing asus then the asus mobo/s they had prior to their gigabyte wasn't by any means a flagship asus mobo. like with all brands asus has had one or two models that just weren't up to par and had problems from the get go. please don't badmouth asus until you've had the pleasure to own and use one of their flagship mobos. they still build damn good mobos and although their customer service isn't too whoopy, ya very seldom need it with their flagship models.
Rig #1 Asus Rampage Formula Mobo, Intel Core2Quad Q9450 CPU @ 3.55ghz, 2gb Corsair DDR2 1066 Dominator Ram @ 5-5-5-15, TR Ultra 120 Extreme w/ Scythe 9 blade 110 cfm 120mm Fan HSF, HIS Radeon 512mb HD3850 IceQ TurboX GPU, Corsair 620HX P/S, CM Stacker 830 Evo Case, Rig #2 Asus P5W DH Deluxe Mobo, Intel C2D E6600 CPU @ 3.6ghz, 2gb Corsair XMS2 DDR2 800 Ram @ 4-4-4-12-2t, Zalman CNPS9500LED HSF, Sapphire Radeon X850XT PE GPU, Corsair 620HX P/S, Cooler Master Mystique Case, Viewsonic 20.1" Widescreen Digital LCD Monitor, Klipsch Promedia Ultra 5.1 THX Desktop Speakers, http://valid.x86-secret.com/show_oc.php?id=348351 http://valid.x86-secret.com/show_oc.php?id=236435 |
AfterDawn Addict
2 product reviews
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3. February 2008 @ 18:01 |
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That place is expensive. Go here for the CPU:
http://www.aria.co.uk/Products/Component...productId=27971
Mort: When Gigabyte makes their motherboards only slightly less powerful, etc, why should we have to pay about a hundred more for Asus. I think the reason they bad mouth Asus is because people feel ripped off using them.
Although the ASUS P5B-E was an awesome and cheap board.
This message has been edited since posting. Last time this message was edited on 3. February 2008 @ 18:04
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GregI6
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3. February 2008 @ 18:03 |
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Originally posted by sammorris:
Two of them both exhibit the same issues, corrupted 2D text and lag whenever new game sections are loaded. The X1900XT, also running Catalyst 8.1, never exhibited either of these issues.
That's very weird Sam. On COD4(a straight 4 hours gaming) it was nothing but butter smooth framerate with not even one drop even in the most intense battles. The area before you go to the TV station to get Al-Asad had even my Mum jaw dropping(she said the £1100 was worth it)The graphics are just......WOW!(i could also bump up the AA and no effect on framerate). If you want to risk another 3870, the HIS ICEQ3 is bang on the money.
Oh and more ranting on the 3870 X2,
I would have expected 26,000 or something with that processor at 4.7Ghz! (unless im mistaken on that :P )
This message has been edited since posting. Last time this message was edited on 3. February 2008 @ 18:05
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Member
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3. February 2008 @ 18:25 |
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Originally posted by abuzar1:
That place is expensive. Go here for the CPU:
http://www.aria.co.uk/Products/Component...d=27971
On xcase the CPU is £98.16 on aria it is £105.69 - never knew over £7 cheaper was expensive ;)
@Greensman - The Geil is 4-4-4-12, the corsair is 5-5-5-15, which is the specs you mentioned earlier, Ive not found a review of the Black Dragon (cool name), but general Geil reviews have been favourable.
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AfterDawn Addict
4 product reviews
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3. February 2008 @ 18:48 |
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My standing on it is that Asus make good top end boards, but that's all their good at. Their lower end boards leave a lot to be desired in the quality standpoint. With Gigabyte you don't have to spend a fortune to get a board that won't fall apart on you. I'm still happy to recommend the top end Asus boards to people who've got a big budget, but on the value side of things, gigabyte boards are simply better options.
@Greg: I pretty much fixed my 3870 (hooray!) The lag went away by setting my memory settings back to CAS4 (they'd gone back to CAS5 for some reason) and the corrupt 2D text went after I installed Omega drivers rather than the crummy Catalyst ones. So now I'm back to playing Crysis at 2560x1600! :) You really start to appreciate how good some of the game's textures are when running at this resolution. Shame the last 10% of them look dump...
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AfterDawn Addict
2 product reviews
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3. February 2008 @ 18:50 |
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Really? You guys have something called VAT. After that it's 10 pounds cheaper.
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AfterDawn Addict
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3. February 2008 @ 18:51 |
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greg, most ati cards do better in 3dmark, but pale in comparison when it comes to games vs the nvidias. dont go by 3dmark, go by TRUSTED review sites, liek anantech, or hexus...etc
oh and azubar, you only pay top price for Asus, when u want there TOP TOP mobos, liek the ROG series, etc. even their mainstreme serires are competiitively priced, and offer brilliant Ocing. (obviously not as good as the high end mobos)
oh and hu ever chose those xclio cases should be shot :P. THEY SUXORZ!!!!21"11!!111 end off.
get the akasa zen, for under £30, if u gonna budget that. but i would stick withthe Cm-690, for any budget or even high end rigs.
MGR (Micro Gaming Rig) .|. Intel Q6600 @ 3.45GHz .|. Asus P35 P5K-E/WiFi .|. 4GB 1066MHz Geil Black Dragon RAM .|. Samsung F60 SSD .|. Corsair H50-1 Cooler .|. Sapphire 4870 512MB .|. Lian Li PC-A70B .|. Be Queit P7 Dark Power Pro 850W PSU .|. 24" 1920x1200 DGM (MVA Panel) .|. 24" 1920x1080 Dell (TN Panel) .|.
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