My current P182-based system is linked in my signature, but basically my plan is to swap out my current motherboard/CPU/RAM/graphics card for a newer system, but keep everything else. I have a friend who is willing to buy these parts from my current setup, which is handy.
![Laughing :lol:](./images/smilies/icon_lol.gif)
I'm tossing up between a P55 / i7 860 or the X58 / i7 920 based set up, the first option being a bit cheaper (and can get SATA3/USB3 without spending a lot on a new motherboard) and the second option being a little more future proof CPU-wise, as I understand 6-core Gulftown CPUs will be available for LGA1336 motherboards in the future.
Anyway, the current parts list for the P55 system is something like this (AUD prices from CPL and PCCG):
CPU: Intel i7 860 LGA 1156 - $345
CPU Heatsink: Prolimatech Mega Shadow - $99
Mobo: Gigabyte GA-P55A-UD4P Motherboard - $240
RAM: Corsair 4Gb DDR3 1600 C8 for i5/i7 - $199
Graphics card: Sapphire 5870 Vapor-X - $629
Other: Scythe Kaze Server - $69
Total: $1,581
The alternate X58-based system (with additional cost in brackets) is:
CPU: Intel i7 920 LGA 1336- $409 (+64)
Mobo: Gigabyte EX58-UD5 - $379 (+139)
RAM: Corsair 6Gb DDR3 1600 C8 - $259 (+60)
Basically, the X58 system is about $300 more expensive, but I can probably stretch my budget that far if it is worth it. From what I can tell from the reviews I have read on other sites, the 860 and 920 trade blows in benchmarks. I don't plan on overclocking or running a crossfire system either
I'll be keeping the same cooling from my current P182 setup:
- rear exhaust: Nexus 120mm Real Silent
- top exhaust S-Flex E 1200rpm
- front middle intake: Slipstream 1200rpm
I'd be adding a better fan controller and plan on using 2 x Nexus fans in push/pull on the Mega Shadow.
So, I guess I'd like people's opinions on:
1) which of the P55 / i7 860 or the X58 / i7 920 based systems I should go for, considering performance, quietness potential and future-proofing (poll question)
2) whether there are any other improvements I could make
I'm happy to clarify anything further.
Thanks in advance!