new computer choices.

[doc5md]

I have a 2.8GHz prescott on which to build a system. I have a 120GB WD IDE drive too. I would like eventually to have a nice sata raid setup. I am trying to find a mobo. I would like something with good performance- midrange games (thinking 9800 with 128mb ram for video unless an onboard will give equal results for less money) video, presentation development, etc. onboard sound and nic desired. Finally, don't want to spent more than $150 on mobo. I do have to buy ram, so perhaps switching to a different chip alltogether and selling the prescott would be cheaper?? let me hear your thoughts. from reviews here the msi neo2-fis2r and soyo p4i875p dragon2 seem to fit the bill. also, overclocking is not an issue. oh, and I plan on installing both win xp pro and mandrake linux. thanks in advance.
-doc

<P ID="edit"><FONT SIZE=-1><EM>Edited by doc5md on 10/13/04 03:41 PM.</EM></FONT></P>

 

[Carnecerro]

The Abit AI7 is a great board for the price. $103US at Newegg. It will give you SATA raid, onboard audio, lan, and firewire. It will take your prescott. Also onboard video offers nowhere near the level of performance that a standalone card does. Go with the 9800 Pro. It's a great card for the price.

 

[Crashman]

IS7 is better than AI7 and cost around $90.

<font color=blue>Only a place as big as the internet could be home to a hero as big as Crashman!</font color=blue>
<font color=red>Only a place as big as the internet could be home to an ego as large as Crashman's!</font color=red>

 

[endyen]

As Crash says, the IS7 is best bang for your buck. If you can swap that chip for a P4c 2.8, it will save some problems.