August 2002 High-end Gaming PC Buyer's Guide - Page 5

Video Accelerator: MSI GeForce4 Ti 4600

Current Cost: $315
Months on list: 2
Price Change: $0

At least until the Radeon 9700 makes an appearance, opting for a GeForce4 Ti 4600 video card is a no-brainer for our High End Gaming System, The GeForce4 Ti 4600 features a 300 MHz core speed along with a 650 MHz memory clock, and the choice really comes down to brand and features. In the "if it ain't broke don't fix it" category comes the MSI GeForce4 Ti 4600, which is an excellent video card, with features to spare and is renowned for its ultra-high overclocks. Better still, the retail card sells for an incredibly low price (relative to other GF4 cards) and includes VIVO capabilities and a pack load of full retail games and multimedia applications. MSI has a real winner with this card, and we can't think of a better price-performance deal when shopping for a GeForce4 Ti 4600.

Monitor: Samsung 900NF

Cost: $350
Months on list: 8
Price Change: +$10

We still can't figure out a way to slide a high-quality 21" flat-screen monitor into the budget, but until then, we're sticking with the impressive Samsung 900NF. This is a premium 19" flat screen monitor at a value price, and features a flat, aperture-grille tube, 0.25mm dot pitch and a 76 Hz refresh rate at 1600x1200. Color and image quality are both excellent, and the 900NF is equally suited for home gaming or boardroom use. Samsung is also one of the top names in computer monitors and their support is very good compared to the competition. We should also note that since listing the 900NF on our buyer's guide, we have continued to receive positive comments sent in by Sharky readers, who seem to be very pleased with their purchase. We're also not sticking with the Samsung 900NF out of habit, but the search continues for a challenger with the same mix of features, image quality and price.

Please keep in mind that when buying any type or brand of monitor, there is always the chance of receiving a defective unit, so be certain to purchase only from a vendor that offers liberal return and replacement options.

Sound Card: SoundBlaster Audigy Platinum

Cost: $150
Months on list: 3
Price Change: $0

Any of the SoundBlaster Audigy line of soundcards is a great bet for any gamer, but for our high end system, we're moving all the way up to the Audigy Platinum. It's still an Audigy at its basic core, but the Platinum model adds in some extras that help justify the higher price. Not only do you get the Audigy soundcard itself, but the Platinum edition also includes an internal Front-Panel Audio Connectivity Drive, a wireless remote control and a SB1394 bracket connection (compliant to the IEEE 1394a specification).

The Audigy Platinum supports both EAX/2 and EAX AdvancedHD, which means advanced 3D positional audio for upcoming games, along with backwards compatibility for older games. The Audigy Platinum also ships with a ton of bundled audiophile software, but tosses a nod to the gamer by including a full version of either Giants or Deus Ex. The SoundBlaster Audigy Platinum is a real Swiss army knife of gaming soundcards and makes a perfect match for any high-end system.

Although we feel the SoundBlaster Audigy is the best bet for a pure gaming system, those who rate music a bit higher on their scale might want to take a look at the Turtle Beach Santa Cruz. It's not going to compete against the Audigy Platinum in terms of game support or hardware extras, but audio aficionados may appreciate the fidelity of the Santa Cruz.

Speakers:

One area that can really make a difference in your potential enjoyment of any new gaming PC is the choice of system speakers. In general terms, the recommendation of any speaker system is based on individual tastes and requirements, so hit your local PC store, take along a CD or game and give them a close listen. For those without the time or access to perform in-person testing, our recommendations cover both ends of the spectrum and each will certainly be more than adequate for high-end gaming sound.

Altec Lansing 641 or Logitech Z560

Cost: $130
Months on list: 2
Price Change: $0

Even after a few months of comparisons, we're still stuck between the Altec Lansing 641 and Logitech Z560 speakers. Both are impressive 4.1-complaint systems for the price, and each has their definite advantages.

The bass of the Logitech Z560 has to be heard to be believed, but the Altec Lansing 641 also provides excellent bass and potentially better sound separation for gaming and watching DVDs. It's also much less likely to shake the floorboards loose and can have a bit cleaner sound overall. But if you like listening to music, games or DVDs at ultra-high levels and love the sound of neighbors screaming, then look no further than the Logitech Z560's. Then again, we prefer the DVD movie experience on the Altec Lansing 641's, and music sounds quite crisp and clear. Basically, the Logitech set has a slight advantage in games, while the Altec Lansing's squeaks out a win in DVD movies and music. Even then, the race can be too close to call, and we're sure that either set will more than make the grade.