Mainstream Gamer PC Build [April 09]

In these hard economic times, the majority of us don't have the financial resources to splurge on high end electronics but just because the budget is tighter doesn't mean we have to sacrifice the gaming experience.  This month's build is by no means screaming fast.  However, I can guarantee that it will perform admirably in all tasks ranging from productivity to head-shots in the latest first-person shooter.  If you are technically savvy, the CPU and GPU in this build is relatively easy to overclock which will make this rig almost "screaming fast".

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: Mainstream Gamer

Maximum Budget: $1500.00 CDN

Actual Price: $1409.41 CDN

(click to enlarge)

Component changes for this month

• Motherboard

Foxconn may not be a household name but it is well-respected among computer enthusiasts.  For less than $100, you get a board that has plenty of overclocking options in the BIOS, well laid-out design, plenty of on-board connections and great integrated graphics if you're unable to purchase a video card right at the onset.  Version 2.0 supports AM3 but is otherwise identical to version 1.0.

• Video Card

Generally a better overall performer vs the GTX 275, the Radeon HD 4890 is basically a tweaked and overclocked 4870.  On average, the 4890 is roughly 10-20% faster than the 4870 depending on the game and resolution.  The HIS card featured in this month's build comes overclocked from the factory (800 MHz core, 1000 MHz memory).

Components that remain unchanged from last month

• Processor

With the launch of the Phenom II processors, AMD is finally able to compete with Intel again in the mainstream sector.  The X3 processors are more than likely the result of die-harvesting where one of the cores on a quad during the fab process failed.  Instead of tossing away the silicon, AMD disables the faulty core and rebadges the product as a triple-core CPU.  Smart.  The beauty of the PII X3 720 CPU is that it's based on the X4 900 series which means it has the same 6 MB L3 cache.  The L2 is slightly smaller at 1.5 MB.  Clocking at 2.8 GHz, the 720 is the fastest non-quad AMD CPU.  Performance-wise, the 720 is similar to the Core 2 Duo E8400 or E7500.  The 720's trump card is with the heavily threaded apps and the 3rd core.  Because this is a Black Edition processor, the multiplier is unlocked meaning enthusiasts will be able to set different multipliers to attain the best overclock.  With respect to the last comment, achieving a 3.6 GHz overclock is not difficult with this CPU.  Note that an aftermarket cooler is recommended for overclocking.

• Memory

For the memory, 4 GB of Corsair Dominator DDR2 1066 MHz RAM modules graces its presence in this build. The Dominators feature excellent overclocking potential and heat-spreaders that dissipate the heat efficiently.  But the main reason why I prefer Corsair products is their excellent customer service (having dealt with them myself).

• Storage

Featuring strong overall performance, WD's Caviar Black series doesn't disappoint.  Access times, reads and writes are top in its class.  All can be had without breaking the bank.

• Sound Card

The Asus Xonar DX card is a popular alternative to Creative's X-Fi for the audiophile seeking great sound on a budget.  Out of the box, you get Vista compatibility, 7.1 audio and Dolby Digital Live.  It also lacks the bloatware that seem to plague Creative software.  The major downside is the lack of EAX 5.0 (only support for 1.0 and 2.0) which might come as a detriment to the gamer who loves the ambiance that EAX brings to games.

• Optical Drive

The optical drive in this build isn't fancy.  It will install DVD games and programs.  By today's standards, the largest DVD disc (DVD-9) is modest in size but it does allow one to burn home movies or backup data on affordable and readily available media.  Although it is anecdotal evidence, I haven't had a Pioneer drive fail on me yet.

• Display

Like Antec, I have a preference for Dell's Ultrasharp line of LCDs.  Recently launched, the 22" Ultrasharp 2209WA is based on an e-IPS panel  (1680 x 1050) which is a great for gaming and color professionals.  What is incredible though is the price.  Relatively speaking, $370 isn't pocket change but the IPS panel offers incredible bang for the buck.  Not often can you find a top of a line panel at this price point.  Unfortunately, 1080/1200p is not an option due to the lack of pixels.  Connectivity options includes 4 USB ports, VGA and DVI-D.

• Case and Power Supply
  
  

Those who read the Enthusiast build knows I like Antec cases.  For this build, the Sonata III was chosen.  Having built two computers for friends and one for myself at work with the Sonata III, I highly recommend this case for those looking for an affordable, quiet and well laid-out chasis.  Appearance is minimalist and professional making it a great case for business or home.  The included 500W Earthwatts power supply provides more than adequate juice to the components in this build and is 80 PLUS certified.

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

Enthusiast Gamer

March 2009 PC Build Archives

Ultimate Gamer

Enthusiast Gamer

Mainstream Gamer

Home Theater