OT - New computer build

TomG wrote on 1/7/2006, 5:58 AM
Frenchy has inspired me to finally build my own NLE machine. I don't want to steal his thread, so I will start a new one. I have done some research and learned from the experiences of others on this forum in building their own systems. Finally, can anyone give me some advice on the following?

First of all, I decided on the following:

CPU: AMD Athlon 64 X2 4600+ Manchester 1GHz FSB 2 x 512KB L2 Cache Socket 939 Dual Core Processor

MOBO: ASUS A8N-SLI Deluxe Socket 939 NVIDIA nForce4 SLI ATX AMD

My questions:

1. Sound card.
Do I need one since the MOBO comes with:
* Realtek ALC850, 8-channel CODEC
* Audio Sensing and Enumeration Technology
* Coaxial/Optical S/PDIF out ports on back I/O

2. Video cards.
I want to finally begin using a second monitor. I am ordering the MSI NX6600GT-TD128E Geforce 6600GT 128MB 128-bit GDDR3 PCI Express x16 Video Card. What type of card should I use for the second monitor?

3. Video capture.
In the past I just capture directly (and simply) from my camera via an IEEE1394 firewire. I really don't need anything quite like the ADS Tech Pyro A/V Link. Since an IEEE1394 port also comes with the MOBO, do I need anything else?

4. DVD/RW
Currently plan on using my PIONEER DVD-RW DVR-105. I have noticed that some people had some compatibility problems with Pioneer and Anthlon. Anything out there that can't be overcome?

As usual, thanks for your comments and assistance

TomG

Comments

Wes C. Attle wrote on 1/7/2006, 6:51 AM
1. No sound card needed. The mobo comes with top of the line. Nforce4 mobo sound is pretty good.

2. Your selected 6600GT video card comes with both a DVI and VGA outputs and can run two monitors from a single card. So you can hook up the DVI to your newest monitor, and the VGA to your older monitor. Any newer montitor should have both DVI and VGA inputs, if not your card or monitor should come with a $2 DVI to VGA adapter which you can pickup at a computer shop too.

3. 1394 is all you need for DV or HDV capture.

4. Never heard of any problems. My wife has a Pioneer DVD drive with her 3800 X2. No problems and it is a lot more quiet than my Plextor DVD drive.
TomG wrote on 1/7/2006, 9:44 AM
Thanks, PR...

That should hold me for now. The next big event will be assembly and then (which I am kind of dreading) turning on the power for the first time. Can anybody recommend a good insurance policy <grin>

TomG