Originally posted by svtsoboss:
I'm shopping for a new computer, what would you recommend. I would like a media set up, you know, edit pics, video, music, etc.
any suggestions...



I would say get an Athlon, 64bit if you can afford it. To get that 64bit, all of the other stuff in the computer needs to be top of the line (moboard, ram, etc) to make it worth while, this will drive up the price substantially. Also, you would have to get a 64bit ver of windows.

Assuming you will stay with a 32bit processor, get an AMD Athlon 3200. You want AT LEAST 1gig of RAM, 512 won't even begin to cut it for video/picture editing.

As for hard drives... You want 10,000rpm drives if possible. I would say about 200gigs should be pleanty. You can do it with multiple drives for safety's sake in a SCSI arrangement, or just save all your work to one drive while the other drive is for the programs etc.

Video card is the most important part, and as far as video editing goes, its what I know the least about. I do know that an X800 would be the best as far as video output, but I dont think that has the inputs that you need. Possibly get the X800 with a separate card for the inputs?

Also, you want to make sure you get FireWire ports either on the motherboard, or with a separate card for the downloading of Video from a video camera or digital camera that supports it.

Hope I was some help, if you need anything let me know! -Nick

EDIT, REPLY TO ABOVE:

-You want XP Pro, NOT home
-I would go higher than 450watts, with the best quality power supply I can find.
-DVD Dual layer burners are available now, media will come down in price soon.
-As for the monitor, CRT will save you so much money to put where it needs to go (the computer itself) that I would stay away from flat panel. Also, they are not optimal for video editing or gaming.

Finally, I would ALWAYS order online; especially if I was putting the computer together myself. Order from a reputable place (check pricewatch and resellerratings.com) NewEgg.com has consistantly had the best prices and service for me. You will save so much money from ordering online its insane to not.

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