Memory and Chassis

Memory – Corsair TwinX1024RE-3200LL 1GB Memory Kit

Registered memory modules aren’t usually associated with top-end gaming systems. They are most often built for stability. Corsair’s registered DDR400 kit is an exception, though. Its 1GB TwinX kit is tested in a dual-channel configuration, exactly as it’ll be used on the SK8V. Plus, the low-latency modules are rated to operate with tight 2-3-2-6 timings.

Of course, they won’t work on the K8V Deluxe, which utilizes standard DDR400 memory modules. For that, you’ll want to check out Corsair’s recently released Pro Series. According to Corsair, the Pro modules are specially optimized for gaming environments. In other words, they feature extra large heat spreaders and LED lights that monitor the amount of activity on each bank of memory. The TwinX1024-3200LLPRO kit comes highly recommended.

Chassis – Lian Li PC-6070

Evaluating processor and video card performance is a relatively straightforward process. Sure, manufacturers sometimes throw curve balls, but for the most part, there is usually a consensus on the products known to perform best. When it comes to chassis choice, though, subjectivity is the name of the game. There are thousands of options out there and everyone is going to like something different.

Lian Li PC-6070

A few cases, however, are particularly classy specimens, and have a general appeal that anyone with an eye for style can identify. Lian Li’s PC-6070 is a perfect example. Traditional in design, the 6070 is all about brushed aluminum and faux carbon fiber. It is designed for quiet operation and is fit with sound insulating rubber around the door and foam on each of the body panels.

Svelte as the PC-6070 may be, an increasing number of enthusiasts prefer small form-factor systems to larger towers. Shuttle’s SB75G2, featuring the 875P chipset, is a great platform for the Pentium 4. It’s dressed in all black, comes equipped with a 220W power supply, and a bevy of other enthusiast-oriented necessities. Shuttle also sells an XPC for the Athlon 64 called SN85G4 that boasts its own laundry list of features, including Serial ATA RAID and a 6-in-1 card reader.