Build machine now or wait for r350/rv350?

[ctucker]

I currently have an xp1700+ machine, 512MB PC133 RAM, GeForce2 GTS system. I built this 2 years ago (originally 1ghz t-bird). I'm *really* itching to build a new computer, and my budget is around $1000. This system just can't handle newer games like I would like it to.

If I were to order the parts today, this is what I would get:
new computer
(plan is to get a good xp 2100+ stepping and OC to ~2.25ghz)

My question: should I wait for memory prices to keep falling and wait for the r350/rv350 that's supposed to be announced march 12 at cebit? I can make myself wait 1-2 months but I'm not sure if it'll be worth it. I'm not the type of person would will buy the latest and greatest vid card for $399. I would spend $300 on a really good vid card though. If nothing else, maybe the r350 would make the r300 prices drop substantially. Also, will memory prices drop enough to make it worth the wait?

I guess all I'm really looking for is some speculation for the next 1-2 months. I know nobody knows for sure, but I'm bored today and can't stop thinking about building a new comp

 

[Wolfsraider]

upgrade when you have the money
upgrade when your system seems slow "to you"

these two are on your side

by all means get whichever vid card better suits your needs and pocketbook

ask yourself would spending 400+on a vid card be worth losing something else

its a hard choice since only you use your system

i bought an ati 9700 pro for my willamette system then realized that i wanted more
and built the lilo rig in my sig because i hate slow.after upgrading my video card my system felt even more sluggish, even though games ran fine. hence the upgrade to a new system.
i use my computer way too much and as i am stuck on it most of the time i wanted something
speedy yet future proof as i don't upgrade as often as some(this year i went off that mark but for good reasons lol)

i would suggest you look into the fic ati 9700 as it was 295.00 and a very healthy upgrade for gaming etc
i don't have much to offer on amd as i have no experience with their components but the 2100 b is doing quite well.

as far as ram prices they may drop but as you say its nothing more than speculation

i would build that new computer and enjoy the benifits rather than wonder. if this helps great
if not let this serve as a bump for more help

mike

 

[ctucker]

shameless

Comeon, I know you guys like to speculate

 

[tbates757]

I would say wait for R350, its just around the corner. The worst that could happen is push down prices of current cards

 

[nanyangview]

are u planning to sell ur GF2 GTS? What brand and make is it?

 

[billyjak]

I would get the Samung SM348 DVD combo 48x24x48x16x instead of the Lite-on and Toshiba drive.
I just bought one to replace my lite-on drives and it is very, very quiet and fast. You can get it for 80.00 online
I doubt the R300 prices will go down that much. You can get the Fic R300 now for 295.00

 

[magomago]

I'd get a better PSU because that way you'll have ample power to oc with AND it'll be ready for the future (400+ watt psu meesa says)


As for the cards...wait for the next Radeon to come out, and then buy the 9700PRO

 

[ctucker]

Thanks for the suggestions everyone. I'm leaning towards waiting now.. I like the idea of the R300 Pro price going down once the R350 is released. Another thing I'm hoping for is that the barton 2500+ overclocks like a beast. I wish some sites could get a sample.

are u planning to sell ur GF2 GTS? What brand and make is it?

It's a Creative.. I plan to just keep it in my old system and run two boxes. Gotta love the dual inputs on my G420S monitor

 

[mrman3k]

I would wait a bit and get a Barton with an A7N8X. Also get a R350 once the FX is out so that prices go down.