Keeping my baby up-to-date!

[Razor Blade]

So i'm thinking of overhauling my computer with a new look and a few upgrades. Since I kinda been out of the hardware scene for a while I wanna know whats new, what's top and what's looking gooood!

I plan on buying a 27" LCD HD Monitor for my room (where my computer will be going) which will run me around $1200.00 (not too shabby!)

Other than that I wanna replace my case to a super silent http://www.antec.com/us/productDetails.php?ProdID=81800 and buy some new accesories like a new Keyboard and Mouse (simple stuff basically)

I really don't wanna spend too much on a new videocard, because i'm really waiting for the next gen of game engines like Unreal Engine 3.0 and a card that can basically run any game using that engine with FSAA etc ... So probably the generation of cards coming out like ther Geforce 7800 (I know it's out!) and the next one from ATi.

So my graphics card will do me justice for now. I'm wondering if I should geta new motherboard, processor aor anything else. Basically I wanna keep my computer up-to-date by upgrading its components rather than just buying a whole new one that will cost me and arm and a leg all at once.

Suggestions? Now I don't plan on doing this right away as I am spending lots of my hard earned cash on a move to a new place, and also having to buy new bedroom furniture *sigh* So even stuff that will come out in the next year could be on an upgrade list for me, as I probably won't be buying new things - computer wise till January 2006

[D.D.]

i'd say...dont get a new computer and just spend money on your bedroom furniture, get a bigger (if possible???) HD monitor and then spend the rest on a ps3, a linux kit, and a few games when ps3 comes out!111!11eleven XD

that the vidcard has to go and like you said, u dont wanna upgrade to this generation of cards (next gen after 7800 is what u mean i think) is the problem with upgrading (in your case and in mine). in that case, apart from buying a new processor (u'll be restricted to the s478 cpus i believe) and your new case, u cant really do much else >_<.

thats my take on it anyway >_>

[Razor Blade]

Well I meant to this generation of cards (the 7800) I want to upgrade to, but not sure if I should. I'm also thinking of when BTX comes out and Dual Core CPU's are a bit more affordable for the consumer market.

But yea, I definately am going to get the furniture first, then the HD Monitor, a PS3 sooner or later, but still I dn't know what to do with my PC :/

[Vanit]

According to your signature you're computer is still fairly much up to date... If I were you though I'd be on the lookout for accessories rather than upgrades. Pack your computer full with Leds and get a backlit keyboard/mouse (though if its in your room LEDs might not be the smartest decision).

[Razor Blade]

I am wanting to look into cooling solutions for my computer that are both silent and effective. I even heard of some fanless GPU's. Anyone know about these and other cooling methods for both Videocards and CPU's etc ..?

I really want a silent computer. That's why i'm looking for a case that dampens noise etc. I will probably have my computer on all the time and since it's in my room I will hear it. Not a very heavy sleeper or anything so I need my silence!

[ChrisRay]

I hear Geforce 7800GTX cards are really silent

[Master Chief]

Originally Posted by ChrisRay

I hear Geforce 7800GTX cards are really silent

Meh, I dont see the point in SLI yet. Or even a 7800 GTX. Is there really ANY game that uses all that power? Not that I know of(there may be some...dont ask me lol). The only thing I think you can really get out of SLI today is the ability to run games in super high screen resolutions with maxxed out filtering. It seems the only time you get to see the true power is in the tech demos.....

However, if your looking to stick with AGP, which IS still good, anything in the GeForce 6 series from the GeForce 6600 up is definately an option. I have a GeForce 6600GT which is awesome, however my dad has a GeForce 6800 which is EXCEPTIONALLY awesome! Half Life 2 looks like a charm! Also, some of these older mobos are still good(like nForce 2 mobos). I'd say getting the latest isnt really a great thing to, but, its up to you!