Going to build a new Computer Strictly for AH..help?

[WMGambit]

Hey guys, I tried searching for a thread but maybe Im just not wording it right.  I was just wondering if some of you could list me the components that I would need (not necessarily the cheapest, but not breaking my wallet) to run AH without any problems such as Frame Rate, etc.  If you could reply to this post with the way you went about building your own computers for this game such as HD, Processor, Vid Card, etc, and tell me the best sites or stores to purchase those components, I would be most grateful. I know it is because my computer is older than some of the kids that play this game, lol, so its time to start from scratch.  Thank you.   

[maddafinga]

I just recently rebuilt my computer almost entirely from stuff bought from Newegg.  I already had bought a good case and then just added a component or two as I could afford it.  What kind of a case do you have, because with newer stuff you'll need good airflow.  What parts are you going to keep from your older computer?  Do you know what kind of cpu you want, AMD or Intel?  How much are you going to have overall to spend?  Once you start narrowing things down there's still lots of research to be done.  Start with what you're keeping and go from there.  How's your case and cpu?

[Masherbrum]

Hey guys, I tried searching for a thread but maybe Im just not wording it right.  I was just wondering if some of you could list me the components that I would need (not necessarily the cheapest, but not breaking my wallet) to run AH without any problems such as Frame Rate, etc.  If you could reply to this post with the way you went about building your own computers for this game such as HD, Processor, Vid Card, etc, and tell me the best sites or stores to purchase those components, I would be most grateful. I know it is because my computer is older than some of the kids that play this game, lol, so its time to start from scratch.  Thank you.   

Post up your budget in our Forum.   I'll have a few things by tomorrow.

[BaldEagl]

A budget would be a good start.  So would knowing what you primarily use the machine for.

In general $700's probably squeeking by if you're starting from scratch (maybe $500 if you're salvaging parts and transferring the OS).  $1000-1500 and you're getting a good machine that should last for several years and that includes the OS.  Much more than that and you're in the AH overkill range but you might want that if you're into other more graphically demanding games or video editing for instance.

[4deck]

I used an existing case and monitor, and HD. I also had a 550W watt PSU. But for about $450 I think I did fairly well.

Heres the Rig
http://secure.newegg.com/WishList/PublicWishDetail.aspx?WishListNumber=13826486

Also note the motherboard only has 1 PCEe Slot, so no SLI, but I have no plans on using it. This is the only game I play, and it works extremely well, not to mention my tempertures are extremely "COOL" like 45c for cpu, and graphix may get aruond 52c, the mobo stays around 35c. This is running most settngs maxed out. I really dont care for the self shadow though. And I'm a clean 85 frames. Absolutley no stutters. Even with 20+ planes. The only issue then is my DSL.

One more note.
Spend the extra bucks on good heatsinks, and Thermal compunds. I also modified my case, and have 4 fans. The air flows from front to back. I also am maintaining positive pressure in the case. There are debates on positive vs negitive pressure.
Heres a descent look at one
http://tech.icrontic.com/articles/pc_airflow_heat_cooling_guide
I'll have to get some pics up.



This is with everything in it.


Be aware of the size of your case. If you notice that video card, its huge. Make sure you have a descent size case to start off with.

First system test

I put a non matallic screen over the case opening, and this is the finished product. Eventually I may replace the fan with an led one. Dont really care about the glitter effect.

[Spikes]

Will also spec a comp if provided a budget.