~ $2000-2500 streaming/gaming build

[GoblinBuilder]

Alright sweet, thanks mfenn. I'm really liking the option that allowed CFX 7970's 27" screen. The only thing is I'd like a strong, overclockable CPU as well.

I'll be at my new command in 3 weeks. That is when I'll order the parts. So I'll wait before putting anything in the cart in case any great bundles come out. But I'm liking the way it's shaping up. I'll post an update when the time is closer for final a look-through of what I anticipate buying.

 

[mfenn]

Alright sweet, thanks mfenn. I'm really liking the option that allowed CFX 7970's 27" screen. The only thing is I'd like a strong, overclockable CPU as well.

I'll be at my new command in 3 weeks. That is when I'll order the parts. So I'll wait before putting anything in the cart in case any great bundles come out. But I'm liking the way it's shaping up. I'll post an update when the time is closer for final a look-through of what I anticipate buying.

You could swap the Xeon I recommended for an i7 4770K, but that would push your budget over the top. Haswell doesn't OC that well anyway.

 

[GoblinBuilder]

If I were to allow a bit more flexibility in the budget, do you think the increase in performance potential would be worth the increase in budget? Or is there a better alternative to maintain a smooth system while streaming and gaming simultaneously?

Edit: Alright. I rebuilt the list based on recommendations from this forum. I welcome criticism and suggestions. Notes below list.


CPU: Intel Core i7-4770K 3.5GHz Quad-Core Processor $339.99
CPU Cooler: Noctua NH-D14 65.0 CFM CPU Cooler $78.76
Motherboard: Gigabyte GA-Z87X-UD4H ATX LGA1150 Motherboard
Memory: HyperX 16GB Kit (2x8GB) 1600MHz DDR3 - $124.99
Storage: SanDisk Ultra Plus SSD 256 GB - $149.99
Storage: Seagate Barracuda 2TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive $94.99
Video Card: X2 Gigabyte AMD Radeon HD 7970 OC 3GB - $309.99
Case: Corsair 400R ATX Mid Tower Case $79.99
Power Supply: Corsair Enthusiast 850W 80 PLUS Bronze Certified PSU - $119.99
Optical Drive: Asus DRW-24B1ST/BLK/B/AS DVD/CD Writer $18.49
Operating System: Windows 8 System Builder OEM DVD 64-Bit $86.99
Keyboard: Logitech G710 Wired Gaming Keyboard $128.99
Mouse: Logitech G500 Wired Laser Mouse $49.99 @ Amazon
Headphones: Logitech Wireless Gaming Headset G930 $89.99
Monitor: Yamaski 27" 2560x1440 IPS from Amazon - $375.45

Total: $2,462

With this build, I utilized the i7-4770k, the 27" IPS, 2 7970's, as well as the large SSD / 2TB and peripherals. All for $2,522 after shipping and handling.

The only issue is that I have not yet included a second monitor. A second monitor with this build would put me at roughly $2700 assuming I got a 24" sized one, which I am o.k. with. How does this build look to everyone?

I think the only thing I would look to change would maybe be the brand of motherboard, but this one looks really solid. And the PSU, though it looks solid as well.

Thanks!

 

[Agent11]

I would choose different ram, something with tighter timings. Also that case supports AIO water coolers, they are roughly comparably priced with the Nh-d4.


Looks good overall though.

 

[Essence_of_War]

The RAM timings really aren't that important, I do, however, think you're overpaying for 16 GB. Just as a cursory look, here's 2x8 GB for $120. If you really want to use 4 sticks, here's 4x4GB for $104

Similarly, I think you're overpaying for:
1) Your SSD - pro quality SSDs are really intended for people who are using them for TONS of iops, or as a fast scratch space for video/photo editing. I'd go with either an 840 EVO, a regular 840, or a Sandisk Ultra Plus if you're using it as a boot/applications + maybe a few games drive. Amazon has excellent prices on all of them.

2) Your GPUs - If I were considering Xfire'ing 7970's, I'd also consider the 7990. Right now it's $600 AR w/ a huge game bundle. Saves you about $150. If You'd prefer 2x 7970s, I would consider getting two of these for $280 each AR, and OC'ing in afterburner or sapphire's utility rather them rather than pay the extra $200 for

 

[wasabiman123]

If I were to allow a bit more flexibility in the budget, do you think the increase in performance potential would be worth the increase in budget? Or is there a better alternative to maintain a smooth system while streaming and gaming simultaneously?

Edit: Alright. I rebuilt the list based on recommendations from this forum. I welcome criticism and suggestions. Notes below list.


CPU: Intel Core i7-4770K 3.5GHz Quad-Core Processor ($339.99 @ Amazon)
CPU Cooler: Noctua NH-D14 65.0 CFM CPU Cooler ($78.76 @ Amazon)
Motherboard: Gigabyte GA-Z87X-UD4H ATX LGA1150 Motherboard
Memory: Corsair Vengeance 16GB (4 x 4GB) DDR3-1600 Memory ($163.00 @ Amazon)
Storage: Samsung 840 Pro Series 256GB 2.5" Solid State Disk ($224.99 @ Amazon)
Storage: Seagate Barracuda 2TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive ($94.99 @ Amazon)
Video Card: Gigabyte Radeon HD 7970 GHz Edition 3GB Video Card (2-Way CrossFire) ($374.99 @ Amazon)
Video Card: Gigabyte Radeon HD 7970 GHz Edition 3GB Video Card (2-Way CrossFire) ($374.99 @ Amazon)
Case: Corsair 400R ATX Mid Tower Case ($79.99 @ Amazon)
Power Supply: Corsair Enthusiast 850W 80 PLUS Bronze Certified ATX12V / EPS12V Power Supply
Optical Drive: Asus DRW-24B1ST/BLK/B/AS DVD/CD Writer ($18.49 @ Amazon)
Operating System: Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium SP1 (OEM) (64-bit) ($90.88 @ Amazon)
Keyboard: Logitech G710 Wired Gaming Keyboard ($128.99 @ Amazon)
Mouse: Logitech G500 Wired Laser Mouse ($49.99 @ Amazon)
Headphones: Logitech G35 7.1 Channel Headset ($84.99 @ Amazon)
Monitor: Yamaski 27" 2560x1440 IPS from Amazon - $375.45

Total: $2,522

With this build, I utilized the i7-4770k, the 27" IPS, 2 7970's, as well as the large SSD / 2TB and peripherals. All for $2,522 after shipping and handling.

The only issue is that I have not yet included a second monitor. A second monitor with this build would put me at roughly $2700 assuming I got a 24" sized one, which I am o.k. with. How does this build look to everyone?

I think the only thing I would look to change would maybe be the brand of motherboard, but this one looks really solid. And the PSU, though it looks solid as well.

Thanks!

Get a GTX 780 instead of crossfired 7970s, also get a 16 GB Dual Channel kit, so two 8 GB DIMMS, also get Windows 8. The rest is up to your discretion. Oh, also the G35 headset (which I own) is EOL, so grab the G430 or something else instead.

 

[mfenn]

The RAM timings really aren't that important, I do, however, think you're overpaying for 16 GB. Just as a cursory look, here's 2x8 GB for $120. If you really want to use 4 sticks, here's 4x4GB for $104

Similarly, I think you're overpaying for:
1) Your SSD - pro quality SSDs are really intended for people who are using them for TONS of iops, or as a fast scratch space for video/photo editing. I'd go with either an 840 EVO, a regular 840, or a Sandisk Ultra Plus if you're using it as a boot/applications + maybe a few games drive. Amazon has excellent prices on all of them.

2) Your GPUs - If I were considering Xfire'ing 7970's, I'd also consider the 7990. Right now it's $600 AR w/ a huge game bundle. Saves you about $150. If You'd prefer 2x 7970s, I would consider getting two of these for $280 each AR, and OC'ing in afterburner or sapphire's utility rather them rather than pay the extra $200 for

:thumbsup: to this post. I think it'd rather have the 7970s for more heatsink mass per GPU and slightly lower price though.

 

[mfenn]

I would choose different ram, something with tighter timings. Also that case supports AIO water coolers, they are roughly comparably priced with the Nh-d4.


Looks good overall though.

Not that I am recommending an AIO, but what makes you think that the 400R doesn't support them? It has a top mount for 240mm radiators.

 

[GoblinBuilder]

Great thanks guys! So it looks like everything is pretty solid, except the GPU choice and Windows 7/8. Maybe there will be price changes in the next 3-4 weeks that influence my decision but all-in-all it's shaping up. Seems as though (as always) contrasting opinions on which GPU(s) to use, but I'm sure I'll make the right choice. The newest single nVidia GPU, newest single Radeon, or CrossFire.

 

[wasabiman123]

Great thanks guys! So it looks like everything is pretty solid, except the GPU choice and Windows 7/8. Maybe there will be price changes in the next 3-4 weeks that influence my decision but all-in-all it's shaping up. Seems as though (as always) contrasting opinions on which GPU(s) to use, but I'm sure I'll make the right choice. The newest single nVidia GPU, newest single Radeon, or CrossFire.

Just keep in mind there's a plethora of under the hood improvements in Windows 8/8.1, and new DX 11.2 features. It's just a much leaner/meaner OS. Also go single GPU, please, it's much less of a headache in terms of drivers and thermals among other jank. Whether it's AMD or NVIDIA is your choice, and one that will be interesting in a few months.

 

[Agent11]

Not that I am recommending an AIO, but what makes you think that the 400R doesn't support them? It has a top mount for 240mm radiators.

Reading comprehension error?

 

[GoblinBuilder]

Wow, ok guys. I edited yet again (based on GPU, RAM, and OS recommendations) and shaved off over $100 and maintained mostly the same build. I'm really glad I came to this forum and avoided just throwing parts together that were compatible with good ratings and calling it a day. Saving a lot of money and headache, I REALLY appreciate the recommendations. Post just above here with build list has been updated to reflect new Amazon cart. I really wish I could order this baby right now!

 

[Essence_of_War]

:thumbsup: to this post. I think it'd rather have the 7970s for more heatsink mass per GPU and slightly lower price though.

This is a very good point that I had not considered, and relatedly, by all reports the 7990 is QUITE hot. Throwing that into the mix makes my recommendation lean heavily towards the 2x 7970s if you're committed to a multi-gpu set-up for a hi-res monitor.

 

[GoblinBuilder]

This is a very good point that I had not considered, and relatedly, by all reports the 7990 is QUITE hot. Throwing that into the mix makes my recommendation lean heavily towards the 2x 7970s if you're committed to a multi-gpu set-up for a hi-res monitor.

It's funny, Essence of War; I came here set on my typical single-gpu mindset. And now, I can't get rid of the notion that I NEED a dual-gpu setup. Maybe I'm driven by the fact that I've never done it before, and I enjoy trying new things.

I've never heard of that heat spread as a consideration. Anyways, like I said I updated my build to reflect those recommendations and I'm REALLY liking the way it's shaping up. I can't wait. Also, please let me know if I'm updating the thread too much. I just feel that it's appropriate because the discourse here is productive and I'm learning lots of new information that is applicable to my build as it evolves.

 

[mfenn]

I can't let you spend $120 on a TX850M when a Seasonic M12II 850W is $70 AR. That's a crazy good dead.

 

[Termie]

I can't let you spend $120 on a TX850M when a Seasonic M12II 850W is $70 AR. That's a crazy good dead.

Not dead yet, but will be in a few hours.

 

[GoblinBuilder]

Hey all. It seems that at the 2560x1140 resolution I plan to be gaming / streaming in, the GTX 770 / 680 series in SLI is comparable to the 7970's in CF. The major difference being the roughly $100-per-card price. However, it seems that SLI is more stable than CF in this series. Anyone have personal experience with this? Is SLI still more stable than CF? If it is, is the $100 premium worth the stability in drivers?

Thanks guys.

 

[Termie]

It's not that SLI is more stable, it's that it is smoother. AMD is working on its drivers to improve the situation, and if you lock your game at 60fps using vsync, both are equally smooth, but overall, SLI is the better choice.

 

[mfenn]

It's not that SLI is more stable, it's that it is smoother. AMD is working on its drivers to improve the situation, and if you lock your game at 60fps using vsync, both are equallys mooth, but overall, SLI is the better choice.

Using the AMD 13.10 drives also helps a lot with frame pacing.

 

[GoblinBuilder]

Can someone PLEASE weigh in here on monitors - I've been scouring the internet trying to find a monitor solution. 1440p, 1080p, 120hz, 60hz, 2 ms / 8ms, build quality. The fact that I have another 2 weeks before I order the parts leaves me constantly researching and I literally have a headache pouring over monitors.

It seems that even many multi-GPU setups take a hit with the power required for the pixels in 1440p or higher with max settings. Some people argue they'd rather take 1080p but compensate with 120hz. Anyone have a good resource to look into or opinions?

 

[Essence_of_War]

Basically you have two problems that are feeding-back into each other.

1) Your gaming resolution and refresh rate.
2) Your gpu set-up.

I find it's more helpful to fix your answer to 1), and then choose your answer to 2) appropriately. Here's the long-and-short of it.

- You can hit high 60+ FPS w/ lots of eyecandy in modern games at 1920x1080 or 1920x1200 w/ a single high-end GPU (HD7950/GTX760 and up)
- To do the same at higher res (3x 1920x1080, 2560x1440, 2560x1600 etc) or to take significant advantage of very high refresh rates (120/144Hz) you probably need a multi-gpu approach.

To go with the hi-res/hi-refresh set-up, you need to purchase BOTH the higher res/refresh monitors, AND the extra GPUs. As you've demonstrated here, you have enough money in your budget for the multi-gpu set-up AND the larger power supply AND the nicer monitors, but it will take your build to the edge of your budget.

If, on the other hand, you choose to game at a lower resolution/refresh, you can save money on the gpu, and the monitor, and (potentially) the psu/mobo.

So some good questions to ask yourself might look like: Do you like super twitchy FPS's like Crysis, then maybe you'd like a 120/144Hz monitor. Do you prefer games where you might get a chance to stop and smell the metaphorical roses, if so, higher res IPS to take advantage of those extra textures might be a good choice. Would you prefer neither and rather prefer to pocket some of your budget, then maybe a simple 1920x1080 IPS as a primary monitor, and the cheapest 1920x1080 monitor to monitor streams would be a good choice.

 

[GoblinBuilder]

Ah thanks Essence. I'm a pretty diverse gamer (e.g., BF3, WoW, SC2, LoL, DoTA). I play a wide range of games. The games I MOST enjoy are generally MMORPG's / RTS, which would appear to take advantage of the high res IPS monitors.

I'm going to be in school for a long time, so I'll be gaming a LOT during that time-frame. So I have no issue being on the higher end of my budget.

Thing is, while I enjoy MMORPG's etc more often, I know I'll be playing Battlefield 4 EXTENSIVELY as well as 1-2 other releases coming up. But I'll also be playing some MMORPG's that are coming as well, including a return to WoW.

I know it seems so picky but I game in excess of 12 hours a day when I can, and with that amount of time gaming (often competitively) I'm trying to get what suits me best with this build: I really want to go all out.

Right now, I'm leaning towards a 27" IPS in 1440p. I feel like I could sacrifice a little bit of the "smoothness" from 120+hz for the color richness of higher resolution. Thanks!

 

[Essence_of_War]

I'm going to be in school for a long time, so I'll be gaming a LOT during that time-frame.

Just make sure you make lots of time for non-gaming stuff too!

 

[mfenn]

I'm going to be in school for a long time, so I'll be gaming a LOT during that time-frame. So I have no issue being on the higher end of my budget.

Not to throw another monkey wrench into your thought process, but buying high end is never the way to go for longevity. If you want to play the latest games for 5-6 years, you will need to set aside ~$400 for a GPU upgrade in 2-3 years.