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geekhack Community => Other Geeky Stuff => Topic started by: StrykerX on Wed, 29 May 2013, 19:09:43

Title: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: StrykerX on Wed, 29 May 2013, 19:09:43
Current parts (been acquiring slowly just waiting for deals to be posted) so far

CASE - BitFenix Prodigy - http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16811345017
PSU - SILVERSTONE Strider Plus ST50F-P 500W ATX 12V v2.3 & EPS 12V 80 PLUS BRONZE Certified Full Modular Active PFC Power Supply - http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817256065
SSD - Samsung 840 Pro - http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820147193
GPU - Nvidia GTX 470 - from my last machine while I wait to see if the GTX 770's are any good/affordable
RAM - 16GB Corsair Vengeance - from my last machine - http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820233299

Now, the question at hand:

Preferrably, I'd like a mITX motherboard with Thunderbolt (better Hackintosh capabilities, I have a Thunderbolt Display). They don't exist yet, which is one reason I've held off on finishing the build and just buying parts as I see great deals. Should I wait for the next generation of Intel processors to come out? Will there even be affordable mITX motherboards at launch? Will they even have Thunderbolt?
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: Jocelyn on Wed, 29 May 2013, 19:19:56
You'll have to wait a week or two to see if TB trickles down to ITX :p

Edit - I say this because I remember reading motherboard companies were having trouble getting Intel certification for TB headers.
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: StrykerX on Wed, 29 May 2013, 20:01:25
You'll have to wait a week or two to see if TB trickles down to ITX :p

Edit - I say this because I remember reading motherboard companies were having trouble getting Intel certification for TB headers.
But there are Intel motherboards with Thunderbolt, just not mITX motherboards.
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: Jocelyn on Wed, 29 May 2013, 20:03:54
But there are Intel motherboards with Thunderbolt, just not mITX motherboards.

Yes I know, but this was in regards to where it would be located on the back of mitx boards. Intel can be weird about this stuff. I'll find what I'm talking about later and edit this post with the "speculation" bit I'm referring to.
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: StrykerX on Wed, 29 May 2013, 20:04:57
But there are Intel motherboards with Thunderbolt, just not mITX motherboards.

Yes I know, but this was in regards to where it would be located on the back of mitx boards. Intel can be weird about this stuff. I'll find what I'm talking about later and edit this post with the "speculation" bit I'm referring to.
Okay, gotcha.

This is one of the few I found: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=13-121-639&SortField=0&SummaryType=0&Pagesize=100&PurchaseMark=&SelectedRating=-1&VideoOnlyMark=False&VendorMark=&IsFeedbackTab=true&Keywords=%28keywords%29&Page=1#scrollFullInfo
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: tp4tissue on Thu, 30 May 2013, 05:32:54
Thunderbolt will be like Firewire..   VERY limited pickup.. This really shouldn't be in your decision.

Display port is better for displays.. and USB is better for ex-drives..


Think about it this way, say you have thunderbolt drives,  WHO ELSE has thunderbolt,, NO BODY.... why bother limiting your search over such a limiting feature...



Also, if you're dead set on Mini-itx... Consider getting those AIO water coolers...   Even if the air cooler you plan to use "FITS" it doesn't have enough clearance inside the bit-fenix to effectively cool, because the close space causes tremendous back pressure// resistance on the fans.

The water coolers give you more "clearance" for the fans to work properly..

That said.. watercooling or not, this thing will be MUCH louder than a full tower with more fans and more room.


the ONLY advantage of mini-itx is that it looks cute, and you can 'sort-of" carry it around...

It still sucks carrying it around despite the size, cuz the damn thing is still heavy, and it's summer, and I hate the outside, because outside no has air-conditioning..


I am a bit biased AGAINST the mitx given my previous experience with it, I went all the way, water cooled both the gfx and cpu.. Only to come up disappointed with the result..


Pros: 
Looks Cute
Slightly more portable

Cons:
Runs hot
Runs Loud
No space for Drives
Traditional Harddrives also run a bit warmer in small spaces
Dead zones galore


My previous mitx build was 2600k 4.8ghz/ asus z77 mitx/ nv 670/ zalman lq on the gfx/ h100 on the cpu
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: badcop on Thu, 30 May 2013, 06:40:44
Thunderbolt will be like Firewire..   VERY limited pickup.. This really shouldn't be in your decision.

Display port is better for displays.. and USB is better for ex-drives..


Think about it this way, say you have thunderbolt drives,  WHO ELSE has thunderbolt,, NO BODY.... why bother limiting your search over such a limiting feature...



Also, if you're dead set on Mini-itx... Consider getting those AIO water coolers...   Even if the air cooler you plan to use "FITS" it doesn't have enough clearance inside the bit-fenix to effectively cool, because the close space causes tremendous back pressure// resistance on the fans.

The water coolers give you more "clearance" for the fans to work properly..

That said.. watercooling or not, this thing will be MUCH louder than a full tower with more fans and more room.


the ONLY advantage of mini-itx is that it looks cute, and you can 'sort-of" carry it around...

It still sucks carrying it around despite the size, cuz the damn thing is still heavy, and it's summer, and I hate the outside, because outside no has air-conditioning..


I am a bit biased AGAINST the mitx given my previous experience with it, I went all the way, water cooled both the gfx and cpu.. Only to come up disappointed with the result..


Pros: 
Looks Cute
Slightly more portable

Cons:
Runs hot
Runs Loud
No space for Drives
Traditional Harddrives also run a bit warmer in small spaces
Dead zones galore


My previous mitx build was 2600k 4.8ghz/ asus z77 mitx/ nv 670/ zalman lq on the gfx/ h100 on the cpu

i agree with TP on this.

im concerned with a 470 being in that tiny ass case.  they run pretty hot and with what little airflow you're going to have, that poor cpu might have an issue unless you go with an AIO liquid.  The draw back to a AIO liquid is, you're partially blocking the 1 exhaust fan you have in the case.  once the gpu ramps up, the temps are going to just keep climbing.
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: Jocelyn on Thu, 30 May 2013, 10:51:37
Thunderbolt will be like Firewire..   VERY limited pickup.. This really shouldn't be in your decision.

Display port is better for displays.. and USB is better for ex-drives..


Think about it this way, say you have thunderbolt drives,  WHO ELSE has thunderbolt,, NO BODY.... why bother limiting your search over such a limiting feature...



Also, if you're dead set on Mini-itx... Consider getting those AIO water coolers...   Even if the air cooler you plan to use "FITS" it doesn't have enough clearance inside the bit-fenix to effectively cool, because the close space causes tremendous back pressure// resistance on the fans.

The water coolers give you more "clearance" for the fans to work properly..

That said.. watercooling or not, this thing will be MUCH louder than a full tower with more fans and more room.


the ONLY advantage of mini-itx is that it looks cute, and you can 'sort-of" carry it around...

It still sucks carrying it around despite the size, cuz the damn thing is still heavy, and it's summer, and I hate the outside, because outside no has air-conditioning..


I am a bit biased AGAINST the mitx given my previous experience with it, I went all the way, water cooled both the gfx and cpu.. Only to come up disappointed with the result..


Pros: 
Looks Cute
Slightly more portable

Cons:
Runs hot
Runs Loud
No space for Drives
Traditional Harddrives also run a bit warmer in small spaces
Dead zones galore


My previous mitx build was 2600k 4.8ghz/ asus z77 mitx/ nv 670/ zalman lq on the gfx/ h100 on the cpu

i agree with TP on this.

im concerned with a 470 being in that tiny ass case.  they run pretty hot and with what little airflow you're going to have, that poor cpu might have an issue unless you go with an AIO liquid.  The draw back to a AIO liquid is, you're partially blocking the 1 exhaust fan you have in the case.  once the gpu ramps up, the temps are going to just keep climbing.

Bitfenix prodigy is not a tiny case lol. Also I had a 470 in my sg05, which is tiny and I never had a problem with temps. When the gpu ramps up, positive pressure does It's thing, but again the case OP mentioned is not tiny.
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: tp4tissue on Thu, 30 May 2013, 14:07:31
Thunderbolt will be like Firewire..   VERY limited pickup.. This really shouldn't be in your decision.

Display port is better for displays.. and USB is better for ex-drives..


Think about it this way, say you have thunderbolt drives,  WHO ELSE has thunderbolt,, NO BODY.... why bother limiting your search over such a limiting feature...



Also, if you're dead set on Mini-itx... Consider getting those AIO water coolers...   Even if the air cooler you plan to use "FITS" it doesn't have enough clearance inside the bit-fenix to effectively cool, because the close space causes tremendous back pressure// resistance on the fans.

The water coolers give you more "clearance" for the fans to work properly..

That said.. watercooling or not, this thing will be MUCH louder than a full tower with more fans and more room.


the ONLY advantage of mini-itx is that it looks cute, and you can 'sort-of" carry it around...

It still sucks carrying it around despite the size, cuz the damn thing is still heavy, and it's summer, and I hate the outside, because outside no has air-conditioning..


I am a bit biased AGAINST the mitx given my previous experience with it, I went all the way, water cooled both the gfx and cpu.. Only to come up disappointed with the result..


Pros: 
Looks Cute
Slightly more portable

Cons:
Runs hot
Runs Loud
No space for Drives
Traditional Harddrives also run a bit warmer in small spaces
Dead zones galore


My previous mitx build was 2600k 4.8ghz/ asus z77 mitx/ nv 670/ zalman lq on the gfx/ h100 on the cpu

i agree with TP on this.

im concerned with a 470 being in that tiny ass case.  they run pretty hot and with what little airflow you're going to have, that poor cpu might have an issue unless you go with an AIO liquid.  The draw back to a AIO liquid is, you're partially blocking the 1 exhaust fan you have in the case.  once the gpu ramps up, the temps are going to just keep climbing.

Bitfenix prodigy is not a tiny case lol. Also I had a 470 in my sg05, which is tiny and I never had a problem with temps. When the gpu ramps up, positive pressure does It's thing, but again the case OP mentioned is not tiny.


It'll Run yea... but about 5-10 C HIGHER than the same setup in a BIGGER roomier case...

And that just won't be good for overclocking..


And if you don't overclock, then F.... You..    why even build your own computer.  :))
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: Jocelyn on Thu, 30 May 2013, 14:13:30
It'll Run yea... but about 5-10 C HIGHER than the same setup in a BIGGER roomier case...

And that just won't be good for overclocking..


And if you don't overclock, then F.... You..    why even build your own computer.  :))

Bitfenix prodigy is not little meaning your argument doesn't apply to this case. That is all :)


Edit - Also worth noting, when I ran the 470 in my SG05, both cpu/gpu were overclocked as well as undervolted below stock voltages ;)

Edit 2 - Like everything, ITX is not for everyone, but for others it's fine :)
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: guilleguillaume on Thu, 30 May 2013, 18:05:29
I run inside a Lian Li PC-Q11 a GTX670 + i5 2500K without any problem with temperatures. They're higher than usual but nothing to worry about.

Big cases are a waste of space.
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: StrykerX on Thu, 30 May 2013, 18:44:54
I run inside a Lian Li PC-Q11 a GTX670 + i5 2500K without any problem with temperatures. They're higher than usual but nothing to worry about.

Big cases are a waste of space.
That's a pretty sexy case. I saw this one too: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B009LHF4FO which looked nice. But I already have the BitFenix Prodigy. And it's certainly not tiny, maybe just a bit smaller than a mid tower.

As for the Thunderbolt port - you're right, maybe not worth waiting for. I just have a beautiful Thunderbolt Display that won't be able to be used if I don't have Thunderbolt.
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: StrykerX on Thu, 30 May 2013, 18:52:48
Also, does anybody have a great AIO suggestion that will work with the BitFenix Prodigy case with no modding?
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: tp4tissue on Fri, 31 May 2013, 14:34:00
I run inside a Lian Li PC-Q11 a GTX670 + i5 2500K without any problem with temperatures. They're higher than usual but nothing to worry about.

Big cases are a waste of space.
That's a pretty sexy case. I saw this one too: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B009LHF4FO which looked nice. But I already have the BitFenix Prodigy. And it's certainly not tiny, maybe just a bit smaller than a mid tower.

As for the Thunderbolt port - you're right, maybe not worth waiting for. I just have a beautiful Thunderbolt Display that won't be able to be used if I don't have Thunderbolt.

That actually means you should "sell" the display.. and get something else without stupid thunderbolt.. :D

I recommend zr30w  wfp3007hc  and if you want to get ghetto, zr27w...   if gaming, get the 27inch 144hz. cuz resolution is not important.
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: StrykerX on Fri, 31 May 2013, 15:06:52
The Thunderbolt Display is beautiful, though, and I love the daisy chaining ability. All well, I guess I will just keep it for my work laptop.
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: Binge on Fri, 31 May 2013, 16:44:34
I ended up making a prodigy build for LAN goodness.  It werks and is my daily driver.  GL with your build.  Give us pictures!
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: tp4tissue on Fri, 31 May 2013, 17:03:43
I ended up making a prodigy build for LAN goodness.  It werks and is my daily driver.  GL with your build.  Give us pictures!

When I had my lan build, i only went to 1 lan with it, then I remembered why i stopped going to lans.. Bunch of dudes, some/many of which do not shower, or just sweaty++,   and they get all touchy with your keyboard even though They just pounded down a whole tub of shop-rite cheese balls.. And there's always this one guy who pwns in every single game... and then you get the rage quitter on your team, and he gives up half way, and leaves his station... Freakin'''
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: samwisekoi on Fri, 31 May 2013, 17:55:58
Edit - Also worth noting, when I ran the 470 in my SG05, both cpu/gpu were overclocked as well as undervolted below stock voltages ;)

I've built several ITX systems, but my portable rendering system is in a Sugo 5, and it is great.  Good air flow, room for an SSD and a big spinning storage drive, and small enough to carry easily.  Mine runs an OC i5, but could have handled an i7.  I don't think I'd go bigger than a 660, although there is room and intake right there.

The prodigy is a cute case, but is is big for an ITX case.  I think the Sugo is a better value, and if you can do something as big as the Prodigy, then you can also do an mATX mini-tower and have LOTS more choice for every component.

Other than the case, good build list.  Excellent choices on PSU and SSD.  Solid choice on RAM as well.

About all of the other input, I agree about dropping Thunderbolt.  It is going to push you into a low-volume, expensive mobo.  Aren't there adapters so you can still use that beautiful display?

Just my $.02,

 - Ron | samwisekoi
(http://www.samwisekoi.com/pixelart/M.png)
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: StrykerX on Fri, 31 May 2013, 18:44:51
Edit - Also worth noting, when I ran the 470 in my SG05, both cpu/gpu were overclocked as well as undervolted below stock voltages ;)

I've built several ITX systems, but my portable rendering system is in a Sugo 5, and it is great.  Good air flow, room for an SSD and a big spinning storage drive, and small enough to carry easily.  Mine runs an OC i5, but could have handled an i7.  I don't think I'd go bigger than a 660, although there is room and intake right there.

The prodigy is a cute case, but is is big for an ITX case.  I think the Sugo is a better value, and if you can do something as big as the Prodigy, then you can also do an mATX mini-tower and have LOTS more choice for every component.

Other than the case, good build list.  Excellent choices on PSU and SSD.  Solid choice on RAM as well.

About all of the other input, I agree about dropping Thunderbolt.  It is going to push you into a low-volume, expensive mobo.  Aren't there adapters so you can still use that beautiful display?

Just my $.02,

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Show Image
(http://www.samwisekoi.com/pixelart/M.png)


Okay, a few points in light of this thread:

1) I am thinking about selling the BitFenix Prodigy case in favor of a FT03-MINI: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16811163197

2) Unfortunately, that renders my PSU useless and I'll have to return it to Newegg in favor of this: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817256084

3) There aren't any adapters that can make a Thunderbolt Display work without a Thunderbolt port to date. And it doesn't look like there will be a good option for a mATX or mITX motherboard with Thunderbolt in the near future.

4) I guess I will just wait for the next-gen Intel line to come out which I hear is just a couple weeks away.
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: tp4tissue on Sat, 01 June 2013, 04:29:04
Edit - Also worth noting, when I ran the 470 in my SG05, both cpu/gpu were overclocked as well as undervolted below stock voltages ;)

I've built several ITX systems, but my portable rendering system is in a Sugo 5, and it is great.  Good air flow, room for an SSD and a big spinning storage drive, and small enough to carry easily.  Mine runs an OC i5, but could have handled an i7.  I don't think I'd go bigger than a 660, although there is room and intake right there.

The prodigy is a cute case, but is is big for an ITX case.  I think the Sugo is a better value, and if you can do something as big as the Prodigy, then you can also do an mATX mini-tower and have LOTS more choice for every component.

Other than the case, good build list.  Excellent choices on PSU and SSD.  Solid choice on RAM as well.

About all of the other input, I agree about dropping Thunderbolt.  It is going to push you into a low-volume, expensive mobo.  Aren't there adapters so you can still use that beautiful display?

Just my $.02,

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Show Image
(http://www.samwisekoi.com/pixelart/M.png)


Okay, a few points in light of this thread:

1) I am thinking about selling the BitFenix Prodigy case in favor of a FT03-MINI: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16811163197

2) Unfortunately, that renders my PSU useless and I'll have to return it to Newegg in favor of this: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817256084

3) There aren't any adapters that can make a Thunderbolt Display work without a Thunderbolt port to date. And it doesn't look like there will be a good option for a mATX or mITX motherboard with Thunderbolt in the near future.

4) I guess I will just wait for the next-gen Intel line to come out which I hear is just a couple weeks away.

thunderbolt is up to the mobo-oem.. because it's not a feature of high demand, and there's the licensing.

I would stick with the bitfenix, because it has more space for the cooler.

the ft03 can fit only a slim water cooler and honestly, overclocking will suffer greatly, you'll be locked to 4.2 or so on ivy. delid maybe 4.5

but 4.8 is out of the question on slim 120 coolers.
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: StrykerX on Sat, 01 June 2013, 13:09:33
Yeah I guess I will just stick with the BitFenix. I don't mind the size, I bought it because it was a great compromise between a gaming tower and a mITX machine. So I guess all that is left is just to wait for Haswell...
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: tp4tissue on Sat, 01 June 2013, 17:07:09
Yeah I guess I will just stick with the BitFenix. I don't mind the size, I bought it because it was a great compromise between a gaming tower and a mITX machine. So I guess all that is left is just to wait for Haswell...

Haswell is going to -need day 1 de-lid if you want to get everything from it... I recommend using a 240mm rad and a 140mm rad for the gfx card.


I'm really hoping Haswell can do 5GHZ at < 1.4v  I can swallow 1.37-1.39v,   I've slowly-killed a 2500k @ 1.45v :D, so i know the people saying 1.45 is too much isn't making **** up.. Good thing for intel insurance, I'm still running the chip @5ghz.. It just needs more voltage now.
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: StrykerX on Mon, 03 June 2013, 13:44:36
Yeah I guess I will just stick with the BitFenix. I don't mind the size, I bought it because it was a great compromise between a gaming tower and a mITX machine. So I guess all that is left is just to wait for Haswell...

Haswell is going to -need day 1 de-lid if you want to get everything from it... I recommend using a 240mm rad and a 140mm rad for the gfx card.


I'm really hoping Haswell can do 5GHZ at < 1.4v  I can swallow 1.37-1.39v,   I've slowly-killed a 2500k @ 1.45v :D, so i know the people saying 1.45 is too much isn't making **** up.. Good thing for intel insurance, I'm still running the chip @5ghz.. It just needs more voltage now.
What is a "day 1 de-lid"?
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: SmallFry on Mon, 03 June 2013, 13:48:46
He delidded his CPU on the first day that he got the CPU. Delidding it removes the metal (I forget the name currently) heat spreader. This allows the CPU to be run faster, though it can come with more consequences, just like any overclocking.
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: StrykerX on Mon, 03 June 2013, 14:19:07
He delidded his CPU on the first day that he got the CPU. Delidding it removes the metal (I forget the name currently) heat spreader. This allows the CPU to be run faster, though it can come with more consequences, just like any overclocking.
Yeah...I am not taking apart of the CPU...I would assume that would void the warranty.

I am open to getting an AIO cooler, though.
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: StrykerX on Mon, 03 June 2013, 21:49:56
Okay so Haswell is out, but the only three mITX socket 1150 motherboards are made by Asrock:

http://www.newegg.com/Product/ProductList.aspx?Submit=ENE&N=50001944+600009028&QksAutoSuggestion=&ShowDeactivatedMark=False&Configurator=&IsNodeId=1&Subcategory=-1&description=asrock+haswell&hisInDesc=&Ntk=&CFG=&SpeTabStoreType=&AdvancedSearch=1&srchInDesc=

Should I wait for more mITX motherboards to come out?
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: Jocelyn on Mon, 03 June 2013, 21:51:51
There are more coming, but I'm doubtful any will come with TB - Haswell Z87 SFF motherboard list (http://hardforum.com/showthread.php?t=1760417)
 

Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: IvanIvanovich on Mon, 03 June 2013, 22:55:54
I would wait for the evga z87 stinger. Looks damn nice.
(http://www.evga.com/products/images/gallery/111-HW-E872-KR_XL_7.jpg)
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: tp4tissue on Tue, 04 June 2013, 07:52:33
Asus Z87i-Deluxe

is going to be the one to get..


With the 4770k and 4670k, these are NOT premium cpus you're buying, an ROG board is a complete waste of money, because it won't take your OC higher.


And since Many people are too pu$$y to delid anyway, they'll be thermal-bound within 4.2 - 4.5 ghz  where a premium board will mean even LESS, because EVERY board even the low quality asrock ones will accomplish such trivial OC..


I say get the asus, because their bios is really easy to work with, and their forum is better supported than the other brands.


Also, with the exception of the 2 asus boards, all of the other boards have inferior pwm circuits.. THat's probably OK for haswell especially if one's only going to reach a puny 4.5ghz, but these boards generate more heat "Per" delivery loop, so wear and tear will be an issue.. since many people stick these crappy boards into tiny cases, it'll be even more of a problem down the road.
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: Lastpilot on Tue, 04 June 2013, 07:58:03
By the way the GTX 770 was recently announced to be $400. :]
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: StrykerX on Tue, 04 June 2013, 13:12:54
Asus Z87i-Deluxe

is going to be the one to get..


With the 4770k and 4670k, these are NOT premium cpus you're buying, an ROG board is a complete waste of money, because it won't take your OC higher.


And since Many people are too pu$$y to delid anyway, they'll be thermal-bound within 4.2 - 4.5 ghz  where a premium board will mean even LESS, because EVERY board even the low quality asrock ones will accomplish such trivial OC..


I say get the asus, because their bios is really easy to work with, and their forum is better supported than the other brands.


Also, with the exception of the 2 asus boards, all of the other boards have inferior pwm circuits.. THat's probably OK for haswell especially if one's only going to reach a puny 4.5ghz, but these boards generate more heat "Per" delivery loop, so wear and tear will be an issue.. since many people stick these crappy boards into tiny cases, it'll be even more of a problem down the road.
What is an ROG board?

Also, any idea when the Asus Z87i-Deluxe will be out?
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: alaricljs on Tue, 04 June 2013, 13:14:46
Republic of Gamers, it's a marketing branding for top end hardware.
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: Jocelyn on Tue, 04 June 2013, 17:36:39
I'm now officially done with ITX and desktop motherboards in general. Going to buy an ultra book w/ TB + this instead :p
http://hardforum.com/showthread.php?t=1765272

(http://i.imgur.com/2YBR7DS.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/nNJI5yT.jpg?1)
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: StrykerX on Tue, 04 June 2013, 18:42:27
I don't get it, how does it communicate with the CPU on rendering the graphics if it's not directly plugged into the Motherboard? This blows my mind.
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: Jocelyn on Tue, 04 June 2013, 18:45:19
I don't get it, how does it communicate with the CPU on rendering the graphics if it's not directly plugged into the Motherboard? This blows my mind.

People already do this, but it's limited to a 4x PCIE and you need an express card slot. It's called an external GPU. You take laptop or desktop with Thunderbolt, plug the TB cable from SilverStone case into laptop's TB, then hook up the GPU to your external monitor. This will use the CPU of your computer and the card you have in the enclosure, though I'm not sure how or if this works with laptops that have a dedicate GPU or Nvidia Optimus. Anyway, I'm really looking forward to this thing and would expect it to be under $150 for both PSU and enclosure.
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: Latin00032 on Tue, 04 June 2013, 20:29:42
I don't get it, how does it communicate with the CPU on rendering the graphics if it's not directly plugged into the Motherboard? This blows my mind.

People already do this, but it's limited to a 4x PCIE and you need an express card slot. It's called an external GPU. You take laptop or desktop with Thunderbolt, plug the TB cable from SilverStone case into laptop's TB, then hook up the GPU to your external monitor. This will use the CPU of your computer and the card you have in the enclosure, though I'm not sure how or if this works with laptops that have a dedicate GPU or Nvidia Optimus. Anyway, I'm really looking forward to this thing and would expect it to be under $150 for both PSU and enclosure.

That's not great if its limited to only 4x!
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: Jocelyn on Tue, 04 June 2013, 20:30:55
That's not great if its limited to only 4x!

No, that's the old rigged way people were doing it. They were basically making home made versions of what SS will be offering soon, that coupled with expresscard slot in a laptop. This one will be PCIe 3.0 x16
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: tp4tissue on Tue, 04 June 2013, 20:52:58
I think bandwidth wise it'll be fine.. But honestly.. WHY BOTHER.....

Laptop CPUs are completely underpowered for Modern Games, especially "the big ones"  SC2 and BF3..


It's just Better to get a low power small laptop, and a powerful desktop than   2 of something that doesn't quite do well as either.
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: Leslieann on Tue, 04 June 2013, 21:02:47
It's just Better to get a low power small laptop, and a powerful desktop than   2 of something that doesn't quite do well as either.

Agreed, I argue with customers all the time about this.

Laptops are easier to steal, easier to break, slower, and when they fail or need upgrading, it's far more expensive. Sony wants $600 for the mainboard in my laptop (parts only!). For $600, I can build an entire desktop.
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: Latin00032 on Tue, 04 June 2013, 22:40:23
That's not great if its limited to only 4x!

No, that's the old rigged way people were doing it. They were basically making home made versions of what SS will be offering soon, that coupled with expresscard slot in a laptop. This one will be PCIe 3.0 x16

I may consider this in the future. Maybe.
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: tp4tissue on Wed, 05 June 2013, 18:29:48
It's just Better to get a low power small laptop, and a powerful desktop than   2 of something that doesn't quite do well as either.

Agreed, I argue with customers all the time about this.

Laptops are easier to steal, easier to break, slower, and when they fail or need upgrading, it's far more expensive. Sony wants $600 for the mainboard in my laptop (parts only!). For $600, I can build an entire desktop.

oh man..

$600 that number just reminded me of Haswell..

sigh.... still debating... well, itching, looking for every conceivable excuse to upgrade.. they shot down my starcraft 2 argument..

I'm coming up with a new one though..

My old pc downstairs uses 200 watts idle, and is only used for internet and video playback..  it is also used at least 8 hours per day by my mother.

If I swap out that computer with a haswell, it will pay for itself in roughly 6 years w/ my ridiculous 18cent / kwa. :D
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: IvanIvanovich on Wed, 05 June 2013, 18:49:50
Ugh. I hate the whole mobile shift whether it is notebooks or tablets or whatever. I mean, I understand people like sales reps and stuff that need something for the job, but why the **** anyone wants one for their only computer is beyond my understanding as they suck ass. Not only is their performance so far behind, stupid OS makers decide to force the mobile way of doing things on me so I double hate it. **** that. I like keyboards and mice not touchscreens mother****ers. I;ve been drinking, had like 4 .5 liters so sue me.
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: alaricljs on Wed, 05 June 2013, 18:59:45
My work system is a laptop.  90% of the time the SSD is plugged into my server in the basement and is being run as a VM that I remote into from my PC in the office.  I hate laptops.
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: Latin00032 on Wed, 05 June 2013, 19:30:57
Ugh. I hate the whole mobile shift whether it is notebooks or tablets or whatever. I mean, I understand people like sales reps and stuff that need something for the job, but why the **** anyone wants one for their only computer is beyond my understanding as they suck ass. Not only is their performance so far behind, stupid OS makers decide to force the mobile way of doing things on me so I double hate it. **** that. I like keyboards and mice not touchscreens mother****ers. I;ve been drinking, had like 4 .5 liters so sue me.

Woohoo! Go Ivan!

The only thing that's stopping me from building my own new PC is being afraid of pitting on the CPU cooler. I'm afraid I won't install it right.
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: Leslieann on Wed, 05 June 2013, 20:02:03
Not only is their performance so far behind, stupid OS makers decide to force the mobile way of doing things on me so I double hate it.
on Windows 8, install Classic Start, makes it into a decent OS again, it's not Windows 7, but it's close.



The only thing that's stopping me from building my own new PC is being afraid of pitting on the CPU cooler. I'm afraid I won't install it right.
Modern systems will shut down before overheating and the coolers are easier than then used to be. It's not like the uncapped AMD days where if you installed it wrong, you cracked the processor.
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: tp4tissue on Wed, 05 June 2013, 20:05:23
Not only is their performance so far behind, stupid OS makers decide to force the mobile way of doing things on me so I double hate it.
on Windows 8, install Classic Start, makes it into a decent OS again, it's not Windows 7, but it's close.



The only thing that's stopping me from building my own new PC is being afraid of pitting on the CPU cooler. I'm afraid I won't install it right.
Modern systems will shut down before overheating and the coolers are easier than then used to be. It's not like the uncapped AMD days where if you installed it wrong, you cracked the processor.

what exactly is new about windows 8 worth using? I tried it for a week after release, nothing worthwhile except the new task manager.
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: Leslieann on Wed, 05 June 2013, 20:09:53
what exactly is new about windows 8 worth using?
The underlying OS is actually quite good, file copy/transfers are smoother, faster and better presented.
It's just the eye candy and interface that really stinks.
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: tp4tissue on Wed, 05 June 2013, 20:11:08
what exactly is new about windows 8 worth using?
The underlying OS is actually quite good, file copy/transfers are smoother, faster and better presented.
It's just the eye candy and interface that really stinks.

LOL, so ok new task manager, and new file copy transfer screen..  that's totally worth the 5 hours it took me to set it up and install all my programs, a few of which stopped working. :D
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: StrykerX on Wed, 05 June 2013, 20:25:13
Woohoo! Go Ivan!

The only thing that's stopping me from building my own new PC is being afraid of pitting on the CPU cooler. I'm afraid I won't install it right.
6 years ago I tried to install my first after-market CPU cooler. It didn't specify in the instructions that I should put washers in-between the backplate (the metal thing that goes on the back side of the motherboard that the cooler screws into from the front) and the motherboard. The motherboard literally fried. Smoke everywhere. Luckily, when I returned it to Fry's, they didn't notice the huge charred part on the back (where the backplate went) and returned it for being DOA.

But I learned my lesson and haven't had a problem ever since.

As for the laptop vs desktop conversation, those people complaining about using a laptop for work have clearly never tried the Macbook Pro & Thunderbolt Display setup. It basically makes my laptop feel like a desktop. One plug (I love you, Thunderbolt) and my beautiful 27" display, keyboard and mouse automatically are powered up. The laptop is ludicrously fast enough to handle any task I throw at it and has almost as high of a resolution (Retina!) as my 27" Display. Thank god for SSD's. And I can take it on the go when I need, of course.

(http://i.imgur.com/iXMqPIS.jpg)
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: Latin00032 on Wed, 05 June 2013, 20:26:50
Not only is their performance so far behind, stupid OS makers decide to force the mobile way of doing things on me so I double hate it.
on Windows 8, install Classic Start, makes it into a decent OS again, it's not Windows 7, but it's close.



The only thing that's stopping me from building my own new PC is being afraid of pitting on the CPU cooler. I'm afraid I won't install it right.
Modern systems will shut down before overheating and the coolers are easier than then used to be. It's not like the uncapped AMD days where if you installed it wrong, you cracked the processor.

Last time I built a computer was about 10 years ago. I'm out of the loop with some of the new lingo.

I want to get back into PC gaming. Especially after seeing what Sony and Microsoft have coming down the pipe.
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: StrykerX on Thu, 06 June 2013, 00:30:56
Not only is their performance so far behind, stupid OS makers decide to force the mobile way of doing things on me so I double hate it.
on Windows 8, install Classic Start, makes it into a decent OS again, it's not Windows 7, but it's close.



The only thing that's stopping me from building my own new PC is being afraid of pitting on the CPU cooler. I'm afraid I won't install it right.
Modern systems will shut down before overheating and the coolers are easier than then used to be. It's not like the uncapped AMD days where if you installed it wrong, you cracked the processor.

Last time I built a computer was about 10 years ago. I'm out of the loop with some of the new lingo.

I want to get back into PC gaming. Especially after seeing what Sony and Microsoft have coming down the pipe.
I just wish I had more time for gaming :(
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: Leslieann on Thu, 06 June 2013, 02:37:02
LOL, so ok new task manager, and new file copy transfer screen..  that's totally worth the 5 hours it took me to set it up and install all my programs, a few of which stopped working. :D
I didn't say it was worth switching to. LOL




As for the laptop vs desktop conversation, those people complaining about using a laptop for work have clearly never tried the Macbook Pro & Thunderbolt Display setup. It basically makes my laptop feel like a desktop. One plug (I love you, Thunderbolt) and my beautiful 27" display, keyboard and mouse automatically are powered up. The laptop is ludicrously fast enough to handle any task I throw at it and has almost as high of a resolution (Retina!) as my 27" Display. Thank god for SSD's. And I can take it on the go when I need, of course.

A Mac for work... Sorry, no.
Do I really need to list all of the reasons why?
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: StrykerX on Thu, 06 June 2013, 10:33:48
I would love to hear your reasons why. Clearly you're not in the tech industry, it's 90% Macs.
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: alaricljs on Thu, 06 June 2013, 10:36:32
The tech industry is 90% macs?  What tech industry is that?
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: IvanIvanovich on Thu, 06 June 2013, 11:21:48
Maybe Mac is still high in graphic design, print, maybe architecture and still pretty high in music production. Other than that Mac has a very low market share in business.
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: StrykerX on Thu, 06 June 2013, 12:30:52
The tech industry is 90% macs?  What tech industry is that?
Silicon Valley.

http://farm2.staticflickr.com/1036/5178840073_8aec5f41f8_o.jpg
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: Leslieann on Thu, 06 June 2013, 16:47:54
I would love to hear your reasons why. Clearly you're not in the tech industry, it's 90% Macs.
Did you write that with a straight face?
Silicone Valley may be home of the tech industry, but it's not the average business and just because a bunch of geeks, hipsters and college kids use Macs, that means absolutely nothing to the rest of the business world.


As for why...
If you work in I.T. you should know why, lack of compatibility being the primary reason. Going into an office and not knowing if your laptop can even print or even access required websites, is not a good feeling. There is also costs of repairs, upgrades, software, support... Silicone Valley is not small town America, you can't simply throw a rock and hit a Mac "specialist". In fact, in many small towns you would be lucky to even find a Mac at all.

And I do work in the tech industry, I have my own business in I.T. servicing dozens of non-tech businesses.
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: StrykerX on Thu, 06 June 2013, 17:12:07
I would love to hear your reasons why. Clearly you're not in the tech industry, it's 90% Macs.
Did you write that with a straight face?
Silicone Valley may be home of the tech industry, but it's not the average business and just because a bunch of geeks, hipsters and college kids use Macs, that means absolutely nothing to the rest of the business world.


As for why...
If you work in I.T. you should know why, lack of compatibility being the primary reason. Going into an office and not knowing if your laptop can even print or even access required websites, is not a good feeling. There is also costs of repairs, upgrades, software, support... Silicone Valley is not small town America, you can't simply throw a rock and hit a Mac "specialist". In fact, in many small towns you would be lucky to even find a Mac at all.

And I do work in the tech industry, I have my own business in I.T. servicing dozens of non-tech businesses.
I should have been more specific. I don't mean the average business. I mean hardcore tech. Silicon Valley, LA tech scene, Austin, New York, Boulder, etc. Macs dominate those. I have zero compatibility problems in my industry. So to say that they are a poor work machine for tech is just ignorant.

I'm all for preference. I use Windows on my desktop, I even have Windows 7 on my Mac via Bootcamp. It's still the best Windows laptop I've ever had. But to say it's bad for a work computer is just senseless.
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: alaricljs on Thu, 06 June 2013, 17:16:01
So 5% of the tech industry then?
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: StrykerX on Thu, 06 June 2013, 18:22:11
So 5% of the tech industry then?
I don't think you can find the exact numbers out there but you'd be hard pressed to find a Windows computer at most of biggest tech companies in the world. I think that says something about Macs being good work computers. That said, I have nothing against Windows, and prefer it for my gaming PC. But I love my 13" Retina Macbook Pro and Thunderbolt Display combo and I'm incredibly productive on it.
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: alaricljs on Thu, 06 June 2013, 19:39:14
So 5% of the tech industry then?
... you'd be hard pressed to find a Windows computer at most of biggest tech companies in the world. ...

Um, yeah... Sorry but I work for one of the largest software companies and have friends in others on the list.  We do not provide Macs to anyone except as a shared development environment.  We have no love for Windows, however.  With over 100k employees in the company we have less than 100 company owned Macs.  On the other hand we do have some users that can't live without their Mac, you have to purchase and support it yourself.  In my organization there are 3 guys that do this.  My org has several hundred members.
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: Leslieann on Thu, 06 June 2013, 22:06:08
I should have been more specific. I don't mean the average business. I mean hardcore tech. Silicon Valley, LA tech scene, Austin, New York, Boulder, etc. Macs dominate those. I have zero compatibility problems in my industry. So to say that they are a poor work machine for tech is just ignorant.

I'm all for preference. I use Windows on my desktop, I even have Windows 7 on my Mac via Bootcamp. It's still the best Windows laptop I've ever had. But to say it's bad for a work computer is just senseless.
Sorry, but I'm still not buying it.

Considering how many companies in the tech industry make PC's and PC parts, while doing very little to support Mac, it doesn't support what you are saying. You are looking at the low level geeks, you aren't looking at the business as a whole. IF it was that full of Macs, Mac compatibility wouldn't be an issue. Every wifi adapter and printer would have a Mac driver, every website would support Safari and yet they don't. Printers lack drivers, websites STILL only support I.E... If Macs had truly invaded I.T. in massive numbers, then this wouldn't be a problem and more importantly Macs would have trickled down into average geeks and average businesses and they simply haven't. 

Yes, the latest generation of techs are pushing for change, but it's a long way from taking over. They may own Macs themselves, but they aren't dictating what the company itself uses and what they support. You are looking at what actually amounts to a very small sector of the I.T. industry and making broad generalizations from it. Look at the picture you posted, those are not the guys making purchasing decisions in your company.

You say it's not bad for work, but walk into a common office and try using their networked printers, try scanning a document. You have about a 50/50 chance at best. I even had to replace a few routers because of the whole Iphone 4 & 4s wifi disaster that IOS 5 or 6 brought with it.
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: StrykerX on Fri, 07 June 2013, 03:15:33
I should have been more specific. I don't mean the average business. I mean hardcore tech. Silicon Valley, LA tech scene, Austin, New York, Boulder, etc. Macs dominate those. I have zero compatibility problems in my industry. So to say that they are a poor work machine for tech is just ignorant.

I'm all for preference. I use Windows on my desktop, I even have Windows 7 on my Mac via Bootcamp. It's still the best Windows laptop I've ever had. But to say it's bad for a work computer is just senseless.
Sorry, but I'm still not buying it.

Considering how many companies in the tech industry make PC's and PC parts, while doing very little to support Mac, it doesn't support what you are saying. You are looking at the low level geeks, you aren't looking at the business as a whole. IF it was that full of Macs, Mac compatibility wouldn't be an issue. Every wifi adapter and printer would have a Mac driver, every website would support Safari and yet they don't. Printers lack drivers, websites STILL only support I.E... If Macs had truly invaded I.T. in massive numbers, then this wouldn't be a problem and more importantly Macs would have trickled down into average geeks and average businesses and they simply haven't. 

Yes, the latest generation of techs are pushing for change, but it's a long way from taking over. They may own Macs themselves, but they aren't dictating what the company itself uses and what they support. You are looking at what actually amounts to a very small sector of the I.T. industry and making broad generalizations from it. Look at the picture you posted, those are not the guys making purchasing decisions in your company.

You say it's not bad for work, but walk into a common office and try using their networked printers, try scanning a document. You have about a 50/50 chance at best. I even had to replace a few routers because of the whole Iphone 4 & 4s wifi disaster that IOS 5 or 6 brought with it.
Like I said in my above post, you are right and I should have been more specific, I am referring to Silicon Valley, LA tech scene, Austin, New York, Boulder, etc. Macs dominate those. And my picture is from Facebook. And the guys making decisions there use Macs. Facebook is a big company, yes, but I know it's not the biggest. Google is one of the biggest, however, and it's dominated by Mac developers as well. Regardless, I am admitting you are right when it comes to I.T. overall and I was thinking small. My Mac laptop is the best choice for my particular job, and I would argue that 90% of people with my job title in my industry use Macs. So saying it's a bad work computer is still ignorant. Maybe bad for you, but it's the best choice for plenty.

Didn't mean for my thread to become a Mac vs PC thread.
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: tp4tissue on Sun, 09 June 2013, 03:47:07
So 5% of the tech industry then?
I don't think you can find the exact numbers out there but you'd be hard pressed to find a Windows computer at most of biggest tech companies in the world. I think that says something about Macs being good work computers. That said, I have nothing against Windows, and prefer it for my gaming PC. But I love my 13" Retina Macbook Pro and Thunderbolt Display combo and I'm incredibly productive on it.

It's surprisingly popular amongst novice coders because of unix stuff.   But all the old guys and 1337 euro-hackers use windows. but they always have another something on the side for unix
:D

Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: Jocelyn on Mon, 10 June 2013, 00:55:22
Now, the question at hand:

Preferrably, I'd like a mITX motherboard with Thunderbolt (better Hackintosh capabilities, I have a Thunderbolt Display). They don't exist yet, which is one reason I've held off on finishing the build and just buying parts as I see great deals. Should I wait for the next generation of Intel processors to come out? Will there even be affordable mITX motherboards at launch? Will they even have Thunderbolt?

I'm not recommending this, nor do I know if it will actually go live, but here you go StrykerX :p

(http://www.hardware.fr/medias/photos_news/00/41/IMG0041657_1.jpg)
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: IvanIvanovich on Mon, 10 June 2013, 08:58:00
Looks like another really nice one. I have had 2 Zotac mitx boards. They are really solid and reliable. The biggest downside I experience with Zotac is they are quite poor at releasing update bios, and they seem to be usually very light on options. You can set the date/time, select the boot option... maybe select some very limited speed and timing settings. Very basic stuff but they run and run. I'm using the H67CE for my server. I've had it since near release and never a problem. Old one is with my father still going strong as an HTPC.
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: StrykerX on Mon, 10 June 2013, 09:34:54
Now, the question at hand:

Preferrably, I'd like a mITX motherboard with Thunderbolt (better Hackintosh capabilities, I have a Thunderbolt Display). They don't exist yet, which is one reason I've held off on finishing the build and just buying parts as I see great deals. Should I wait for the next generation of Intel processors to come out? Will there even be affordable mITX motherboards at launch? Will they even have Thunderbolt?

I'm not recommending this, nor do I know if it will actually go live, but here you go StrykerX :p

Show Image
(http://www.hardware.fr/medias/photos_news/00/41/IMG0041657_1.jpg)

MUST. HAVE.

Really wish you didn't show me that, now I might have to hold out on the ASUS z87 mITX boards until I hear more about these.
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: StrykerX on Thu, 13 June 2013, 11:24:49
Good news, everyone!

So my PNY GTX 470 died a couple weeks ago and I RMA'd it (for the second time since I've had it). But this time around, looks like they're sending me a GTX 670 back!! I know it's not quite as good as a GTX 770 but I'm sure it will suffice just fine until I really need to upgrade in which case there will be much better cards on the market for the price.

Got to love that life-time warranty. I wonder, if the 670 breaks, if that is covered too, since it's not the original card.
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: StrykerX on Thu, 13 June 2013, 18:31:03
Sorry to bump again, but I have a new development:

I'm dropping the BitFenix Prodigy from my rig. Just heard a lot against it, decided it's more important to have a quiet and cable managed computer than a small one (even though the Prodigy is the largest mITX case around). I am going with the Fractal Design R4, which I got on sale today for $80.

So my current build is this:

PCPartPicker part list (http://pcpartpicker.com/p/168cU) / Price breakdown by merchant (http://pcpartpicker.com/p/168cU/by_merchant/) / Benchmarks (http://pcpartpicker.com/p/168cU/benchmarks/)

CPU:  Intel Core i7-4770K 3.5GHz Quad-Core Processor (http://pcpartpicker.com/part/intel-cpu-bx80646i74770k)  (Purchased For $279.99)
Memory:  Corsair Vengeance 16GB (2 x 8GB) DDR3-1600 Memory (http://pcpartpicker.com/part/corsair-memory-cml16gx3m2a1600c10r)  (Purchased For $0.00)
Storage:  Samsung 840 Pro Series 256GB 2.5" Solid State Disk (http://pcpartpicker.com/part/samsung-internal-hard-drive-mz7pd256bw)  (Purchased For $187.99)
Video Card:  PNY GeForce GTX 670 2GB Video Card (http://pcpartpicker.com/part/pny-video-card-vcggtx670xpb)  (Purchased For $0.00)
Case:  Fractal Design Define R4 (Black Pearl) ATX Mid Tower Case (http://pcpartpicker.com/part/fractal-design-case-fdcadefr4bl)  (Purchased For $79.99)
Power Supply:  Silverstone Strider Plus 500W 80 PLUS Bronze Certified ATX12V / EPS12V Power Supply (http://pcpartpicker.com/part/silverstone-power-supply-st50fp)  (Purchased For $74.99)
Total: $622.96
(Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available.)
(Generated by PCPartPicker 2013-06-13 19:29 EDT-0400)

All I'm missing now is a motherboard, and I'm holding out for a Z87 with Thunderbolt. Thanks to sales, already having memory, OS, and the video card upgrade (courtesy of PNY RMA), the cost is pretty freaking low. I do have to sell my Prodigy, of course.
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: tp4tissue on Thu, 13 June 2013, 21:09:18
Sorry to bump again, but I have a new development:

I'm dropping the BitFenix Prodigy from my rig. Just heard a lot against it, decided it's more important to have a quiet and cable managed computer than a small one (even though the Prodigy is the largest mITX case around). I am going with the Fractal Design R4, which I got on sale today for $80.

So my current build is this:

PCPartPicker part list (http://pcpartpicker.com/p/168cU) / Price breakdown by merchant (http://pcpartpicker.com/p/168cU/by_merchant/) / Benchmarks (http://pcpartpicker.com/p/168cU/benchmarks/)

CPU:  Intel Core i7-4770K 3.5GHz Quad-Core Processor (http://pcpartpicker.com/part/intel-cpu-bx80646i74770k)  (Purchased For $279.99)
Memory:  Corsair Vengeance 16GB (2 x 8GB) DDR3-1600 Memory (http://pcpartpicker.com/part/corsair-memory-cml16gx3m2a1600c10r)  (Purchased For $0.00)
Storage:  Samsung 840 Pro Series 256GB 2.5" Solid State Disk (http://pcpartpicker.com/part/samsung-internal-hard-drive-mz7pd256bw)  (Purchased For $187.99)
Video Card:  PNY GeForce GTX 670 2GB Video Card (http://pcpartpicker.com/part/pny-video-card-vcggtx670xpb)  (Purchased For $0.00)
Case:  Fractal Design Define R4 (Black Pearl) ATX Mid Tower Case (http://pcpartpicker.com/part/fractal-design-case-fdcadefr4bl)  (Purchased For $79.99)
Power Supply:  Silverstone Strider Plus 500W 80 PLUS Bronze Certified ATX12V / EPS12V Power Supply (http://pcpartpicker.com/part/silverstone-power-supply-st50fp)  (Purchased For $74.99)
Total: $622.96
(Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available.)
(Generated by PCPartPicker 2013-06-13 19:29 EDT-0400)

All I'm missing now is a motherboard, and I'm holding out for a Z87 with Thunderbolt. Thanks to sales, already having memory, OS, and the video card upgrade (courtesy of PNY RMA), the cost is pretty freaking low. I do have to sell my Prodigy, of course.

Did you see the Mac Pro Can, it's basically everything you want... and has like a bajillion thunderbolt 2 ports.

Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: StrykerX on Fri, 14 June 2013, 03:31:26
It does look awesome, but it's not out until later this year and it'll be super overpriced. I have no need for Xeon processors or those weird workstation dual graphics cards.

With recycled parts, my build will be about $800 and probably nearly as powerful if not more powerful than their base version (which my guess will be $1800-2400). Their PCI-e based solid state memory speed is pretty insane (roughly 2.5X faster than the Samsung 840 Pro). And Thunderbolt 2, which is nuts, and I assume they're going to eventually release a new 4K Thunderbolt Display in the next year to compliment it.
Title: Re: Getting ready to build a mITX gaming rig
Post by: StrykerX on Fri, 14 June 2013, 13:22:08
ASUS Z87-EXPERT LGA 1150 Intel Z87 (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813131992) - This mobo would complete my build!

Any reason not to get this mobo (such as a better Thunderbolt Z87 mobo coming out?).

PCPartPicker part list (http://pcpartpicker.com/p/16ne5) / Price breakdown by merchant (http://pcpartpicker.com/p/16ne5/by_merchant/) / Benchmarks (http://pcpartpicker.com/p/16ne5/benchmarks/)

CPU:  Intel Core i7-4770K 3.5GHz Quad-Core Processor (http://pcpartpicker.com/part/intel-cpu-bx80646i74770k)  (Purchased For $279.99)
Motherboard:  Asus Z87-EXPERT ATX  LGA1150 Motherboard (http://pcpartpicker.com/part/asus-motherboard-z87expert)  ($234.98 @ SuperBiiz)
Memory:  Corsair Vengeance 16GB (2 x 8GB) DDR3-1600 Memory (http://pcpartpicker.com/part/corsair-memory-cml16gx3m2a1600c10r)  (Purchased For $0.00)
Storage:  Samsung 840 Pro Series 256GB 2.5" Solid State Disk (http://pcpartpicker.com/part/samsung-internal-hard-drive-mz7pd256bw)  (Purchased For $187.99)
Video Card:  PNY GeForce GTX 670 2GB Video Card (http://pcpartpicker.com/part/pny-video-card-vcggtx670xpb)  (Purchased For $0.00)
Case:  Fractal Design Define R4 (Black Pearl) ATX Mid Tower Case (http://pcpartpicker.com/part/fractal-design-case-fdcadefr4bl)  (Purchased For $79.99)
Power Supply:  Silverstone Strider Plus 500W 80 PLUS Bronze Certified ATX12V / EPS12V Power Supply (http://pcpartpicker.com/part/silverstone-power-supply-st50fp)  (Purchased For $74.99)
Total: $857.94
(Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available.)
(Generated by PCPartPicker 2013-06-14 14:21 EDT-0400)