Possibly a New Comp for Me, I have $40K, why not?

I was thinking of getting a new computer, since this current, cruddy machine of mine can't run Unreal Tournament or Oblivion for the life of it. And it just barely runs the new stuff.

Possibly going with Alienware, since making the system myself literally requires bloodshed (some of the components are very sharp and not so user-friendly)

For once, I'd like to have computer bragging rights... as opposed to this thing that requires constant reimaging and electronic spanking.

I looked into Alienware when looking into my new machine. Alienware is god-awful expensive (it was about three times the price of my current computer with the same components). All you get with Alienware is a custom case.

Might I suggest trying to see if there are smaller (non-franchises) computer stores in your area? Most of those get deals from their suppliers, and can build desktops to your requirements, as opposed to big-box retailers, so you can save a bit of money.

I checked Falcon Northwest, and they were actually at least 2K more expensive than Alienware. I also checked Dell, same situation, only it wasn't quite as bad as Falcon Northwest's situation.

I know its cheaper to build everything yourself, but to me, I think I'm having trouble with the hardware of the computer (I think the motherboard is crapping its cyber-pants).

Also, the machine I have right now is pretty old, and at the time I got it, it definitely didn't have the best hardware of its time. The 4K machine I'm thinking of getting at Alienware is very, very close to being the ultimate hardware configuration.

I checked Falcon Northwest, and they were actually at least 2K more expensive than Alienware. I also checked Dell, same situation, only it wasn't quite as bad as Falcon Northwest's situation.

I know its cheaper to build everything yourself, but to me, I think I'm having trouble with the hardware of the computer (I think the motherboard is crapping its cyber-pants).

Also, the machine I have right now is pretty old, and at the time I got it, it definitely didn't have the best hardware of its time. The 4K machine I'm thinking of getting at Alienware is very, very close to being the ultimate hardware configuration.

Let me let you in on a little secret: Dell owns Alienware. Alienware is essentially 'Gourmet' Dell.

Could you post the specs? Might be able to help you there if you do.

Yeah, but for some funny reason, the exact specs on wanted on a normal Dell were more expensive than Alienware.

Anyway:

Intel® Core™ 2 Quad Q6700 2.66GHz 8MB Cache 1066MHz FSB
Alienware® High-Performance Liquid Cooling
Alienware® 1000 Watt Multi-GPU Approved Power Supply
Dual 768MB NVIDIA® GeForce® 8800 GTX - SLI Enabled
4GB Patriot EP+ Low Latency Dual Channel DDR2 SDRAM at 800MHz - 4 x 1024MB
Windows Vista® Home Premium
Extreme Performance (RAID 0) - 500GB (2 x 250GB) SATA 3Gb/s 7,200RPM 2 x 16MB Cache
20X Dual-Layer Burner (DVD±RW)
22" Samsung 1680 x 1050 (2ms) SyncMaster Widescreen Flat Panel

First off, I'm definitely going to advise you to scratch Vista. Vista is failing right now, and at this point, XP is much more secure. Yeah, you can't play Halo 2 or GoW on your computer, but you have a 360 for that.

I'll find you something.

Yeah, but I need DirectX 10 though...

Besides that... yeah, I would consider scrapping Vista, and just using Windows XP Home again.

Yeah, but I need DirectX 10 though...

Besides that... yeah, I would consider scrapping Vista, and just using Windows XP Home again.

The only difference between DX9 and DX10 is the fact that DX10 can render 'realistic' fog... I'm still waiting for someone to hack Halo 2 so I can play it on the PC.


Your PC
Extreme Performance Graphics
Genuine Windows Vista® Home Premium and Dual 8800GT Graphics
Red Bezel Chassis
Intel® Core™2 Extreme QX6850 (8MB,3.0GHz, 1333FSB)
Genuine Windows® XP Professional with re-installation CD
4GB Dual Channel DDR2 SDRAM at 667MHz - 4 DIMMs
500GB - 7200RPM, SATA 3.0Gb/s, 16MB Cache
Dual Drives: 48x Combo + 16x DVD+/-RW w/ dbl layer write capable
22 inch UltraSharp 2208WFP Widescreen Digital Flat Panel Monitor
nVidia® GeForce® 8800 GTX 768MB
Integrated 7.1 Channel Audio
Dell USB Keyboard
Dell Optical USB Mouse

For a grand total of... $3,249. AAAAND you can add a Blu-Ray Player for $400.

I'm just wishing Vista was more reliable. Windows XP is old, and just feels outdated... >.<

Honestly, I don't need the dual drives though. I have dual drives on my current computer, and I've barely ever used the second drive for anything.

Also, I'd like to get dual graphics cards as well. That way, I'll be able to get games even five years from now still running smooth and sweet.

Even still you can upgrade at any time. Vista looks like shit to me, but that's just me. You can always use WindowBlinds to change the look. Security > Look for me, that's all.

A Dual Disc from people like Dell is cheaper than buying the physical 48x yourself. Since Blu-Ray is becoming popular, having a dual disc would also act as a placeholder if you decide to get a Blu-Ray Drive installed once it becomes affordable. That's why I have a Dual Disc Drive.

Ah, Dual GFX Cards, that sounds awesome. You can do that with the $800 you save from not going with Alienware.

Also, if you're looking for games for your new smoking computer, I'd recommend Supreme Commander. It was my inspiration for a lot of the crazy tech I had in Team RP IV, and is just an awesome game. I'll play you online once I get the online worked out too.

Very true on the Security > Look. And like you said, can always upgrade later.

Blu-ray... I definitely see myself needing to get that soon enough. Shame blu-ray burners are so freaking expensive right now.

Ha ha, I'm quite sure those pictures you had in your RP Project List were from that game. Reminds me a lot of Command and Conquer Tiberium Wars. Still, I'm more of an FPS fanatic than a RTS guy, but I'll look into it after I manage to get this all figured out and financed.

I think that going for XP now would be wiser, since it is going to be discontinued in June, and Vista is only going to become cheaper as it is out for longer and Microsoft releases the first Vista patch.

I know, once it comes down to $100 for a Blu-Ray Burner, I am totally getting one.

Same. DVDs are going the way of the dodo.

Might be why USB keys are so popular right now.

Same. DVDs are going the way of the dodo.

Might be why USB keys are so popular right now.

Eh, DVDs are still going to be around for a good ten years. People still use VHS after all.

Those USB Keys are even going obsolete now that they can pack 10 to 20 gigs in one.

Another good point. xD

Yeah, if I have the movie on DVD, I'm not going to buy the Blu-ray version of it. That's just... pointless. xP

I have a really old USB key that only has a 12MB allowance, and its fat as anything. And its ugly. xD