PCI-E Equivalent for ATI 9700 PRO (AGP) ?

[imported_pk]

Hi,

I've decided to upgrade my AMD XP2500, ATI 9700 PRO system with a new dual core system, which means I would need new PCI-E graphic card. Can anyone advise me on what current PCI-E graphic card would give me performance equivalent of my ATI 9700 PRO. This card is probably very slow compared to today's high end (read $500) cards, but I'm actally very happy with its performance. I'm basically trying to spend between $100-$200 on the new card, but want to make sure that they'll perform at least as good as my old ATI. Most of the benchmarks I see on the internet compare PCI-E cards only and don't compare to anything as old as my ATI. I use my system mostly for photography, video editing and only limited gaming (Civilization 3, GP4, couple flight sims, no doom type games). One area that I would like my card to perform better is at H.264 playback as I do a lot of encoding and playback of H.264. Btw. I'm running 24" LCD with 1920x1200 resolution.

Thank you,

pk.

 

[Stumps]

just get a 7600GS or 7600GT, plenty fast and should be in your price range

 

[AVP]

If your really willing to spend $100-200 I would get a card that can run your flight sims at your full resolution with high settings which can be done with one of these :

7900gs: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16814150202

x1950 pro: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16814103021

the x1950pro is the better of the two cards, and will be a couple times faster than your 9700pro

 

[Cookie Monster]

A 7300GT/X1300XT will be roughly be abit faster than your 9700pro.

Those cards cost around $60~90 depending on the retailer. Pure video/AVIVO does exactly what you want e.g h.264 hardware acceleration.

I suggest you buy this for your video card if your looking to use the card for awhile.

leadtek 7900GS $154 AR

Should be atleast 3~4 times faster than your 9700pro, it has a nice stock cooler, leadtek quality, HDCP, dual DVI and low power consumption.

 

[memories2002]

x1650pro/x1600xt/7600gs

 

[RussianSensation]

7600GT for $100
7900GS for $150 (if comes with ~600/1600 clocks)
X1950Pro for $160-170

 

[imported_pk]

Thanks everyone for your response. You all were able to confirm that any card between $100-$200 would be more than a match for my current card.

 

[VirtualLarry]

I recently picked up an X1950GT (500/1200) at NewEgg for $155. Should handle full-screen H.264 playback just fine. X1950Pro cards are just a little bit more.