First-Time Build: Questions and Concerns

DJJB

Honorable
Apr 30, 2013
1
0
10,510
First off, I'd like to say I'm extremely new to this, and have virtually no experience whatsoever with building computers. :sarcastic: I'm just 16 years old trying to understand computers and build something that can be future-proof for quite some time as I move into the work force and figure out exactly what I want to do. I will most likely be on these boards a lot in hopes to learn what I can. Sorry if this post seems rather daunting, I have a lot of questions and just want to make sure I'm thorough and doing this right.

That being said, I'm looking to build a new system primarily for video editing/rendering (After Effects, Premiere, possibly some 3D, etc), but also one that can handle photo editing, gaming, and general computing with extreme efficiency. Basically, I want something that can be powerful, yet still versatile.

I wouldn't say I'm going for a budget build, and I don't exactly have a set limit, but I would like to save money where I can, and my goal is to hit around the $1500 range, although going over is really no problem if it's worthwhile.

As of right now, these are the parts I've selected:
PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant / Benchmarks

CPU: Intel Core i7-3770K 3.5GHz Quad-Core Processor ($316.17 @ Amazon)
CPU Cooler: Corsair H60 74.4 CFM Liquid CPU Cooler ($69.98 @ Amazon)
Motherboard: ASRock Z77 Extreme4 ATX LGA1155 Motherboard ($134.99 @ Amazon)
Memory: G.Skill Ares Series 16GB (2 x 8GB) DDR3-1600 Memory ($106.25 @ Newegg)
Storage: Samsung 830 Series 256GB 2.5" Solid State Disk ($159.99 @ Newegg)
Storage: Toshiba 2TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive ($89.99 @ Microcenter)
Video Card: Gigabyte Radeon HD 7970 3GB Video Card ($389.99 @ NCIX US)
Case: NZXT Phantom (Black) ATX Full Tower Case ($102.69 @ Amazon)
Power Supply: SeaSonic 620W 80 PLUS Bronze Certified ATX12V / EPS12V Power Supply ($74.99 @ Newegg)
Optical Drive: LG UH12NS29 Blu-Ray Reader, DVD/CD Writer ($49.98 @ Outlet PC)
Total: $1495.02
(Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available.)
(Generated by PCPartPicker 2013-04-30 22:12 EDT-0400)

As you can see, I built this in hopes to keep the $1500 range. I admittedly tried keeping things as cheap as possible where possible, such as the PSU, Optical Drive, Storage, etc. Shaving off $10 or $20 here or there adds up overall, but I'm not sure if going for the cheaper (usually lower ratings, or less popular, possibly less reliable) items is a good idea or not?

As I stated, I am extremely new to this, and, although I've done a quite a bit of research, I am openly seeking advice as to what will be best. Some questions I have regarding the build:

Is the i7-3770K the CPU I really should be looking at? The FX-8350 is the alternative I think, but since I plan on doing video editing and rendering, I figured it would be worth it to stick with the i7. Plus, I believe sticking with Intel will give more room for upgrading in the future as new chips come out. However, the 8 cores on the FX-8350 sounds quite promising, and for the price/performance ratio, would switching be worth it, even in the long run?

Would it be more worthwhile to get a more expensive motherboard? The Extreme4 seems to be an amazing choice, but what are the benefits of more expensive mobos?

Would OC'ing be necessary? As I am very new to all of this, I'm not sure if it is. Will my performance still be great without an OC on either the CPU or GPU?

Any recommendations on a Mid-Tower case that could fit this build? This would be primarily to save some money, but I don't want to do so if air flow becomes a problem or if a Full-Tower is necessary. For instance, would this case be sufficient, the NZXT Guardian 921 RB? http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16811146070 Or any other good Mid-Tower that would work?

Please let me know if you have any suggestions as well, or notice something that could be changed. I'm not sure I'm going over my head for a first build and with very little knowledge and experience, but I want this build to last. Any help and advice is very much appreciated, thank you!:)
 
Everything looks great. The only thing that I would change is the CPU Cooler. Either go for custom water cooling or don't do it. The Corsair H-series is not water cooling. I'd replace the cooler with either a Phanteks PH-TC14PE or Noctua NH-D14.


Now, as for your questions:

1. Yes; Intel Core i7-3770K will be perfect for what you're using it for.

2. The ASRock Z77 Extreme4 is an excellent motherboard and can OC very well.

3. I don't know. OC is never necessary. You'll have to decide if you plan to OC or not. If not, you don't need the K-series CPU.

4. I'd recommend the Cooler Master Storm Enforcer.