Enthusiast Gamer PC Build [April 09]

While the Enthusiast Gamer build may lack the "complete pwnage" moniker if compared to the Ultimate Gamer build, this rig ain't no slouch in its own right.  Able to competently perform much of the same tasks as the Ultimate Build, this computer is for those who desire the high-end experience but is unwilling to blow more than a month's salary.

Note that the price does not include additional costs such as taxes and shipping.  This build does not include peripherals such as keyboard or speakers.

System: Enthusiast Gamer

Maximum Budget: $3500.00 CDN

Actual Price: $3485.40 CDN

(click to enlarge)

Component changes for this month

• Memory

Generally known as the cream of the crop, the Corsair Dominator DDR3 RAM modules are insanely fast.   They also feature excellent overclocking potential and heatspreaders that dissipate the heat efficiently.  But the main reason why I prefer Corsair products is their excellent customer service (having dealt with them myself).

• Sound Card

The X-Fi hardware technology itself is solid but the drivers from Creative are not.  So what are the alternatives?  Luckily, Auzentech has an official license to make audio cards based on the X-Fi chip.  The Forte features solid software (and sans the bloatware that plagues Creative's offerings), excellent sound quality and the latest EAX revision (5.0).  Another great feature with the Forte is the integrated headphone amplifier.  Coupled with a high-end set of cans, the audio quality is fantastic.

• Power Supply
  
  

To couple the case with a PSU, the Corsair HX 620W  is chosen to supply juice to the components.  With superb voltage regulation and the ability to provide stable amps on the +12V rail, the HX 620 has no troubles handling dual-GPU or SLI/Crossfire setups.   Modular cabling on the unit allows the user to minimize airflow restrictions.  This power unit is 80 PLUS certified meaning it is 80% electrically efficient (the other 20% is wasted as heat).  This results in lower electricity use and bills.

Components that remain unchanged from last month

• Processor

The Core i7 920 is Intel's next-gen entry level CPU but don't let that fool you.  This CPU packs a lot of punch.  Like the i7 940 and 965, the 920 overclocks very well. For those who are overclocking, keep in mind that the stock heatsink that comes with the processor is adequate at stock frequency.  More elaborate or exotic cooling solutions are recommended for overclocking which this build will not cover.

• Motherboard

Gigabyte motherboards are very popular among computer enthusiasts.  High quality construction with high end components is especially important in achieving a stable gaming rig and it becomes even more relevant when one starts to overclock.  Receiving fairly high marks, the GA-EX58 series truly delivers.  For this build, the UD5 model was chosen due to cost.  Closer examination between this board and the Extreme model reveals very little differences!  In fact, the only big difference between these two boards is the cooling solutions.  Is the $60 premium for the Extreme worth it?  Only you can answer that question.

• Video Card

Simply put, the GTX 295 is a beast.  In fact, this is the only single card solution that is capable of running Crysis in enthusiast quality at 1920 x 1200.  Why did I not choose two GTX 285 in two-way SLI?  First, the price adds another +$200 CDN.  GTX 285s in SLI are faster than the GTX295 but not by much.  Not a $200 premium in my opinion. Second, having a future option of adding another GTX 295 for a 4-way SLI setup when drivers improve would be a great way to add performance.

• Storage

The WD Velociraptor hard drives are among the fastest drives one can buy.  Until high-end SSDs become more cost effective, the platters spinning at 10,000 RPM in the Velociraptor will be a popular choice for the high-end gamer seeking performance in a traditional storage device.

• Optical Drive

For non-HTPC uses, the use of a Blu-ray drive isn't a necessity but it's nice to have for the days where you can watch a movie when your TV isn't free.  Although it is anecdotal evidence, I haven't had a Pioneer drive fail on me yet.

• Display

For a monitor, the 27″ Dell Ultrasharp LCD is chosen for this setup.  Featuring an S-PVA panel, the monitor offers great blacks at a relatively affordable price point.  Connectivity options are plentiful: VGA, DVI, Component, Composite, HDMI and Displayport. While color professionals may have to wrestle a little with calibration, the 2709W is likely to please most to no end who wants a big screen with a decent resolution.

• Case
  
  

I have always liked Antec cases.  In fact, the majority of my builds uses cases from that company.  Good quality and relatively affordable.  I dislike flashy cases and the Antec 902 looks great in its minimalist appearance.  Cooling performance is very good, especially when it came to ambient temperature.

Please keep in mind that the parts I choose may differ from what you would pick. That’s what makes PC building so fun! Everyone is entitled to their decision and this subjectivity is why two computers built among computer enthusiasts is rarely the same.  Moreover, these builds may aid those unfamiliar with the latest in computer technology. During your research, you may find something else you prefer or a part that’s even better.  If you do, let us know in the comments!

April 2009 PC Build Archives

Ultimate Gamer

March 2009 PC Build Archives

Ultimate Gamer

Enthusiast Gamer

Mainstream Gamer

Home Theater

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