I like to multitask a lot and recently it's becoming quite a burden to my current rig, so I plan to get a new processor. I also occasionally play games like Bioshock and Dead Space, preferably at high with playable fps, which requires a more decent GPU. I'll reuse my 15in 1024x768 monitor, HDD and optical drive as well as the basic peripherals.
Here's my current rig:
Pentium 4 3GHz
1 GB RAM
8400 GS
For the new build, I'm thinking:
Core 2 Duo E8400 or Core i7 920 ($170 or $300)
2GB DDR2 800MHz RAM ($40)
8800 GT ($130)
Case + PSU ($100)
What's troubling me is the motherboard socket. If I go for C2D, I'd need a 775 socket, otherwise I'll need a board with socket 1366, which doubles in price and requires me to use DDR3 RAM, boosting the price further. Moreover, I may need a more powerful PSU (are the built-in heatsinks any good?) since 920 consumes more power.
Either jump is quite huge, but in the long run, 920 is definitely more lasting. On the other hand, E8400 is at least $300 more pocket friendly. What do you guys recommend?
Here's my current rig:
Pentium 4 3GHz
1 GB RAM
8400 GS
For the new build, I'm thinking:
Core 2 Duo E8400 or Core i7 920 ($170 or $300)
2GB DDR2 800MHz RAM ($40)
8800 GT ($130)
Case + PSU ($100)
What's troubling me is the motherboard socket. If I go for C2D, I'd need a 775 socket, otherwise I'll need a board with socket 1366, which doubles in price and requires me to use DDR3 RAM, boosting the price further. Moreover, I may need a more powerful PSU (are the built-in heatsinks any good?) since 920 consumes more power.
Either jump is quite huge, but in the long run, 920 is definitely more lasting. On the other hand, E8400 is at least $300 more pocket friendly. What do you guys recommend?