Building a Music Computer—AMD

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       Last month, we built an Intel-based music production computer using Frank Stroupe’s recommendations. This month we’re going to build an AMD based system and see which is more cost effective.

 

       As with last month,, Frank calls for a larger than normal case , something between a mid-size and a full size with at least three fans. This time we’re going to go with a Raidmax Virgo case that has a 120mm rear fan and a 80mm led fan.for $29.99

 

       The next thing Frank addresses is CPU coolers but until we determine which CPU we’re going to use that’ll have to wait .The AMD processor I’ve chosen for this machine is a 2.6Ghz Athlon 64X2 for $200.99

 

       The processor is a AM2 socket so we have to stick with that sort of motherboard. The Asus.M2N-E fits the bill for us at $94.99. It doesn’t have onboard video so I picked the ATI Radeon X1300PRO for $119.99. It’s a little bit of overkill but it has HDTV out as well as S-video and composite.

       Memory for the Asus motherboard is Patriot 1 GB DDR2-800 for $59.99 with a $10 rebate. We’ll use 2 of those.

       Now we can choose our CPU cooler—a ZEROtherm CF900 92mm CPU Cooler for $29.99 that has a has a sound rating from 18—27db(+/- 10%) - 31.99. Our power supply is a Thermaltake TR2 W0070RUC ATX 430W Power Supply for $39.99. Now we’re up to $635.92

       Next are the hard drives, one for the operating system and software and the other for data. Frank was extremely clear about hard drives, he specified Hitachi only and we’ll get a 80gb($43.99) for the operating system and software and a 160gb($54.99) for data. The damage so far—$734.90

       We’ll need a DVD/CD Burner and a CDR burner. He specifies Lite-On and you’re looking at $27.99 for the DVD burner and $18.99 for the CD Burner. That brings our total to $781.88

       A keyboard and mouse is going to set us back $19.99 and $11.99 respectively. Now we’re up to $813.86.

       The only thing left is a monitor. The flat panels are so cheap now, it’s ridiculous. For $10 less than last month, we going to get a Hanns-G 19” widescreen for $159.99 Our grand total without operating system (XP if you ask me), software (your pick) and audio interface ( again your choice) is $973.85.