Better Value: PSU/MB Combo

[roninmedia]

I really like this board, but I see a deal on the ASUS P8Z68-V PRO as well.

Antec Earthwatts 650 + ASUS Maximus IV GENE-Z for $219.98 after rebate
or
Antec HCP-850 + ASUS P8Z68-V PRO for 259.98 after rebate



That power supply with the P8Z68-V PRO is stellar though. That combo was even lower 2 days ago, coming in for $229.98 after rebate but I missed it (That $10 price difference then was a slam dunk for the HCP-850). I am planning to overclock a i5-2500k and deciding on getting a 6950 or 560ti now and then SLI in the future.

 

[AdrianPerry]

If your planning on SLI/CF a 560ti/6950 - you will want a 750w+ PSU.

That Antec/ASUS deal would be perfect. I use that motherboard myself and its a solid performer. Antec is also highly regarded as a very good PSU manufacturer.

Antec Review: http://www.jonnyguru.com/modules.php?name=NDReviews&op=Story5&reid=215
ASUS Review: http://www.guru3d.com/article/asus-p8z68-v-pro-review/24

 

[Motopsychojdn]

They're both Antec/Asus deals man hehe,
I know, you meant the 850w one, just had to pick up on the humour
Totally agree with you though
Moto

 

[beenthere]

Be informed. Before you buy any PSU read accurate, objective PSU reviews at reputable sites such as www.jonnyguru.com or www.hardwaresecrets.com on the EXACT model PSU that you are interested in as some brands have good and poor quality PSUs.

You can also get an accurate rating of how much PSU power is required for your current or future system at the PSU calculator link below. Once you know the total PSU watts required then you need to confirm that the 12v rail has enough amps. to support your Vid card(s) and the rest of the PC system.

There are several websites that show the Vid card power consumption in watts. Divide the watts by 12 to determine the amps. required on the 12v rail(s). Add 15 amps for the rest of the PC on the 12v rail and you now know the Minimum total 12v rail amps required under full load. It's best to have at least 5-10 amps. reserve on the 12v rail available under full load so the PSU is not loaded to 100%.
It's also worth noting that people often misunderstand the 80% power rating. This is a rating of the PSU's energy efficiency not it's output. 80% plus PSUs use less grid power to produce the same PC power. If it's 80% Bronze, Silver or Gold the cost savings on electricity is pretty small between Bronze, Silver and Gold unless you are paying very high rates for electricity so any 80% rated quality PSU is fine even if not Gold. For those who leave their PC on 24/7 a quality 80% PSU is a good investment.


http://extreme.outervision.com/psucalculatorlite.jsp

http://www.guru3d.com/article/geforce-gtx-560-ti-sli-review/14

http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/NVIDIA/GeForce_GTX_560_Ti/25.html

 

[AdrianPerry]

They're both Antec/Asus deals man hehe,
I know, you meant the 850w one, just had to pick up on the humour
Totally agree with you though
Moto

Ooops totally didnt notice that! Hah! But yeah 850w deal I meant 😛