Up to date info for first time builder

[BobMaine]

Has anyone compiled an up to date list of URLs for reviews, guides, how-tos, etc. for the first time computer builder? I am attempting to decide on parts and piece for a higher end machine for video editing but the list of MBs, cases, etc. is too long to wade through to make an informed decision. I would love to find a page that said, “Here are our top three picks for a (whatever) machine. Where “whatever” would be top game machine, average home machine, etc.

[saphalline]

Welcome to the PC Guide forums!! :D

There are many hardware sites that would likely have the info you need, but we here on the forums would be happy to help you pick out parts. The problem with what you want is that it's almost no better than a pre-built PC in that you don't get quite the customization that you want.

For a video editing machine, here's what I would be thinking...

cheapo

AthlonXP "Barton" 2500+
1GB DDR400 RAM
120GB PATA hard drive
128MB Radeon 9200 vid card
19" CRT monitor
DVD writer

expensive

Pentium4 "Northwood C" 3.2 GHz
1-2GB dual-channel DDR400 RAM
36-74GB "Raptor" SATA hard drive
250GB SATA hard drive
128MB Radeon 9200 vid card
19" LCD monitor
DVD writer

But hey, that's just me. :D

[Abbadon]

Originally posted by saphalline
But hey, that's just me. :D

I'd largely agree, except that I'd go with two hard disks in the cheapo configuration as well. Certainly for video-editing it will add some bang for the buck, plus the added safetey in case of hdd-failure.

But hey, that's just me. :D ;)

[BobMaine]

Thanks for the reply(s), I do plan on going with the "expensive" machine. I don't expect to save any money on this machine (over store bought) but my thinking is the next one in a couple of years should only need a CPU or MB upgrade -- maybe a few new other parts upgrade along the way...
What about a case and power supply? I was looking at ANTEC but had a hard time figuring out the True power vs. Smart power options. Too many choices! <;-)

I will be on vacation next week so may not be able to check in here every day. Thanks for all the input, keep it coming.

Bob