New machine or just a new graphics card?
 

So been quite busy, so haven't been able to do much else on PC except for work. Now, current PC specs are in the sig (q6600, 8800gt, etc.) so I'm just curious if I should perhaps buy a new graphics (perhaps a eVGA GTX 285 or whatever is best at the time of purchase) or save up for a new machine?

I work in the video game industry as a 3d artist, so I do a lot of 3d work, but also enjoy playing PC games. Thanks for your time. :D

PS:
Not sure if my motherboard is PCIx 16/2.0 compliant, or does it matter?
Specs here,
http://www.cdrinfo.com/Sections/Revi...rticleId=19127

PS 2.0
I also use a 1680x1050 monitor. ;)

Re: New machine or just a new graphics card?
 

A 285 would be a nice upgrade, and it doesn't need a pci 2.0 in order to work.

Re: New machine or just a new graphics card?
 

A graphics card upgrade would probably be plenty to keep that system running smooth for quite a while.

IMO, you have a few options. Buy a GTX 260 216 core for around $180 (a bargain), buy a GTX 275 for around $230 (also a good buy) or wait for the GT300 from nvidia. The specs are more than twice the GTX 285's in almost every way. There's a good chance it'll be available before October. It should beat pretty much everything available now, other than quad SLI or quad crossfire setups... and it'll likely beat those in some areas, without any multi-gpu headaches.

If you have a bit of extra money available though, by all means, upgrade now. You can always sell and grab a GT300 later, depending on how crazy you are when it comes to upgrading. :D

Also, as methim said, you don't need PCI-E 2.0, it mainly just helps with SLI or Crossfire setups. I don't really think the GTX 285 is the best buy right now though. Its the best single-card available, sure, but I don't think its a big enough leap over the 275 to make it worth the extra $100.

Re: New machine or just a new graphics card?
 

New video card should be fine.

Give it another year or two before going to the next level :D

Re: New machine or just a new graphics card?
 

These days, New graphics card = New machine! go for a new gfx card and you wont need much more seeing your current specs.

Re: New machine or just a new graphics card?
 

At that res you will be able to max out the settings on ALMOST every game out now with a 285. Lots of anti-aliasing, lots of shadows, AF, etc.

Re: New machine or just a new graphics card?
 

Either a GTX 260/275 or ATI 4870/90 would do fine. :)

Re: New machine or just a new graphics card?
 

Well a better video card for sure with your Q6600 at 3.46GHz

Re: New machine or just a new graphics card?
 

Freelance? Small dev?

I'd have thought you'd get hardware as part of your job for free considering how much money is involved in production.

Re: New machine or just a new graphics card?
 

A GTX 285 would show a big increase in games with your Q6600 clocked at 3.46gigs.excepcially with the new games.since you just game at 1680x1050 you would be able to turn up FSAA and aniso in games.

Re: New machine or just a new graphics card?
 

Might differ between office and home computer perhaps ?

Re: New machine or just a new graphics card?
 

It would still be an expense though right? You can claim it back.