Advice on new computer

[augie]

So my current computer is about 8 years old and is on its last legs. I've taken good care of it over the years and am happy with how long its lasted. However lately I'm pretty sure there's some serious issues goin on inside it and with it being as old as it is, I figure it's time to start looking for a new upgrade.

So I found this computer (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16883227291) at Newegg.com that has caught my eye.

My budget has me limited to about $600-$700 for a new system so I'm tryin to get as much as I can for that. I use my computer mostly for DDO and then just general internet usage. I've also been out of the loop as far as the new technology out there so I'd like to ask the more knowledgable community out here a few questions:

1. Will this system and the Radeon HD 5770 video card be able to handle DDO on its highest visual settings? My current system can only manage mid-range settings (at best) so this is pretty critical.

2. Any issues running DDO using DirectX 11?

3. Any thoughts on the processor type and speed? Is it adequate or are there better options?

I know it's not the top-end uber gaming system out there but I'm just tryin to get the best I can with $700 being about the top of what I can shell out.

Thanks in advance,

Aug

[shadow_419]

1. Yes/depends It really depends on what resolution you're planning on running. On a 1680x1050 it should be no sweat to turn up most if not all settings to max. On a higher resolution it will probably hurt your frame rate.

2. I haven't experienced any issues with a 5770 and Windows 7 in an AMD system using DX11.

3. That cpu is more than enough to run DDO. I have a Phenom II x4(quad-core) and it's never had a hiccup. That system has a 6 core cpu.


That pre-built system will be more than fine for what you said you need.
My personal advice though would be to build your own box for the same price or less and get better components where you need them. I understand that not everyone feels comfortable building their own, but if you do, you can save yourself money in the long run.

[Caeldos]

1. I'm running a Sapphire 5770 ATI with VaporX and I have no issues at all with running graphics maxed out in all categories. This graphics series is fine for nearly all recent games. Note however that the 5770 series is focused on running at low temperature and low effect while still supplying a good deal of graphics power. (Check Tom's Hardware performance sheets for comparative tests of graphics cards for example.)

2. I honestly don't know. It runs fine in DX10, and should work fine with DX11 which to my knowledge has improved performance.

3. I run an i5 quad core, that is 4 actual cores working as 4 cores, not in the dual virtual core per physical core of the i7 series. The Phenom II processor is faster and more suitable for gaming than mine, as such it should be more than capable of performing adequately. I also make do with mere 4 GB RAM, same as this suggested setup, though the clock speed of the memories is only 1333 despite being DDR3 for which higher clock speeds are readily available. This may be a drawback, clearly this is where the builders saved some money (my suggestion is don't, slow RAM is a big issue if you want a good gaming rig)

You might be able to get more value for your money if you decide to put your rig together yourself. However if you do not plan on doing so, then to me, though my knowledge of current systems is 6 months old or so, then this should work fine. I would recommend gathering further advice.

[augie]

Nice, thanks for the bits of info. Yeah, I'm not too comfortable building my own setup so that's not much of an option.

Also, any idea if Newegg puts a bunch of extra garbage programs on their systems or are they pretty 'clean'? I've ordered computers from Gateway in the past and had to spend a few hours sifting through the system and uninstalling a bunch of extra **** programs and trial versions. Not the end of the world, but just curious if Newegg does that as well.

+1's for the help

[mws2970]

Nice, thanks for the bits of info. Yeah, I'm not too comfortable building my own setup so that's not much of an option.

Also, any idea if Newegg puts a bunch of extra garbage programs on their systems or are they pretty 'clean'? I've ordered computers from Gateway in the past and had to spend a few hours sifting through the system and uninstalling a bunch of extra **** programs and trial versions. Not the end of the world, but just curious if Newegg does that as well.

+1's for the help

Yeah, Newegg has some extra junk on their PC's, but you can uninstall it easily enough. I can't recall any retail machine that doesn't have some of that stuff on it. While you are downloading and installing DDO, you could go through and get rid of anything you don't want or need.

[shadow_419]

NewEgg wont put anything on the system since they're just a reseller. iBuypower also sells direct from their own site iirc. What if anything iBuypower puts on the system extra I wouldn't know. I always build my own so. :)