Hey guys.
I finally made the jump and got my processor (i7 875k for $200), so now I have 29 days to complete my build. My computer will be used mostly for photo editing, encryption, everyday use, and Starcraft II. So far I have:
CPU: Intel Core i7 875k
RAM: 4GB Corsair XMS3 1333 9-9-9-24
PSU: Corsair 650HX
HSF: CM Hyper 212+
Data Drives: WD Caviar Blacks
Monitor: Dell 2209WA
I think I'll temporarily get a Samsung Spinpoint F3 for my boot drive until the Intel 80GB G2 hits about $160, or get a next gen one (both probably will happen ~October). So the big decisions are motherboard and graphics card.
MB: Since I want to get a fast boot drive, I either need SATA 6gbps on the motherboard, or need to factor getting an add-in card into the cost. GIGABYTE GA-P55-UD3 is the cheapest with SATA 6gbps, but there's at least one review saying it doesn't work at full speed. The next are the ASUS P7P55D-E LX and GIGABYTE UD3P. I was planning on AMD until yesterday so I don't really know about these...
GPU: The only game I'll play is StarCraft II, so I just need a card that will play that on ultra with decent fps. I found a XFX 5770 for $130 after rebate, so I doubt there is anything better than that?
Case: I really want the new Corsair 600T, so I think I'll just get a temporary super-cheap case until it comes out, or possibly a Antec 300 or CM Centurion if I can get either one under $50. Good suggestions for a nice, quiet, LED-free case that might compete with the Corsair would be nice if there is anything out there.
Optical Drive: I don't have any BD discs, and won't pay much more for it over a regular DVD drive, so I assume I get the cheapest name brand burner off Newegg?
Thermal Paste: Don't really follow this. Do people still recommend the Antec Silver, or does it even matter?
Anything else: Anything I left out? I plan on getting an external DAC for sound, and just a cheap keyboard and mouse. I'm installing XP until I find a good deal on 7 or a technet subscription.
Any suggestions, comments, criticisms are welcome. Thanks!