Recent content by Capt_Carl

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    Build Advice System upgrade - my turn in the queue

    My old machine was already upgraded to Windows 10, but they didn't give me a digital key that would allow me to transfer the Windows 10 license for my Windows 11 build. I found that frustrating. I have a contact that get's Microsoft employee software discounts and he is going to help me get a...
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    Build Advice System upgrade - my turn in the queue

    Well she's built. System is fast and silent most of the time, but the sound level does get noticeable while gaming or doing other processor intensive activities. Needless to say, it is faster than my old box and way cooler. My video card appears to be adequate for now. Issues I ran into...
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    Build Advice System upgrade - my turn in the queue

    Took your advice especially given I just met with my Fidelity rep and he said my wife and I are not spending enough money! So, I went with a balance of components as I'm still a spendthrift. Here's where I ended up: Case: Fractal Design Define R5 (I wanted a good case with two 5.25"...
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    Best Cooling

    I'm building my first PC again since my last build in 2013. I've been running an Intel I7-2700K that entire time with solid results for my needs (some gaming, photo and video editing, and office software). If not for the Win 11 incompatibility, I would probably use it a couple more years...
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    Build Advice System upgrade - my turn in the queue

    As I navigate other options I'm seeing, is there any real advantage/value to say go with the Gigabyte - X870 EAGLE board over the Gigabyte B850 EAGLE?
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    Build Advice System upgrade - my turn in the queue

    Awesome input from both of you, thanks! When I built my current system, all told it cost me about $2,000. I was working then. Now I'm retired, so I think a little harder before spending money :unsure: :D
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    Build Advice System upgrade - my turn in the queue

    Thanks and thanks to all the responders thus far. Greatly appreciated. To provide that slightly more complete picture as you suggest, here is the form with my responses: Approximate Purchase Date: by Apr 25 Budget Range: About $400 to 600 for the CPU/MB combination before adding memory and a...
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    Build Advice System upgrade - my turn in the queue

    I came here this morning looking for upgrade guidance and clearly see that I am not alone. My current base system is a 2013 build and does not meet the requirements for Windows 11. Despite reasonable performance, given the age of its components, occasional stability issues, and the Windows...