Gladiator Upgrade

[Myn]

Hi guys,

I'm looking at purchasing a Gladiator PC after many recommendations, but am considering requesting some changes; I would really appreciate any advice or feedback here.

I have had my eye on the Asunder K, (http://www.aria.co.uk/Systems/Gaming+Range/Gladiator/Gladiator+AsuNDeR+K+Gaming+PC+%28Sandy+Bridge+REV+ B3%29+?productId=44106) but with two differences:

Swap out:
MSI GeForce GTX 570 Twin FrozR II OC 1280MB GDDR5 PCI-Express Graphics Card
Put in:
Gigabyte GeForce GTX 570 Windforce 1280MB GDDR5 PCI-Express Graphics Card

Swap out:
8GB Mushkin Blackline #996776 (2x4GB) DDR3 1600MHz 9-9-9-24
Put in:
4GB Mushkin Blackline #996659B (2x2GB) DDR3 1600MHz 9-9-9-24

Should this work? I tried to see if there was anything else I could get rid of to bring the price down, but it seems the only thing is the SSD, which I don't really want to lose.

I usually have concerns over the size of the case but I think this one looks reasonably sized, so that shouldn't be a problem. I travel between Somerset and Kent a lot so as long as I can carry the thing I'll be happy!

I would welcome any advice on alternatives or feedback on those changes. :)

[Nathan94]

Look for a case which is designed for LAN parties, usually a bit lighter, more compact and have handles! :)

http://www.aria.co.uk/dynres/cHJvZHVjdF9pbWFnZS53aWR0aD0yNTA=/bWFpbmltYWdlcy92dWwxLmpwZw==.jpg

A case like that should do the job, but you would need a Micro-ATX board :)

[Myn]

Look for a case which is designed for LAN parties, usually a bit lighter, more compact and have handles! :)

Just found this on the Dragon Lord K description:
The Dragon Lord K58 is targeted for the LAN party gamers. ^_^

[alexnifty]

Look at compact Aluminium cases Lian-Li do a good line. You do not want to be lugging a full tower around, trust me on that. I have done it a few times for LAN parties and it is a nightmare. Don't forget lugging the monitor, keyboard, mouse, and wires. Dreadful!

If you're going to moving about a lot a laptop is what you want. You're looking at around a grand for something good for gaming. MSI have some nice models. MSI GX660R for example.

Or get a computer in each location :p

[Myn]

Definitely not getting a laptop. :) When I say a lot, I mean once every month or two, so nothing too bad, but I used to have a massive machine which went up to my waist, moving that around was a nightmare; something this size should be fine. To be fair I could probably leave my existing computer in Kent once I get a new one. Still would like something not too big, though, so it at least fits under my desk :P Like I said, not too concerned about the case, more what's in it. :)

Looking around a bit more, I suppose the alternative is really the Exodus HDK, with the graphics card changed and an SSD added, or the Pulse HDK with the slower memory and lower spec PSU. By the time the Exodus is changed, though, will probably be the same price as the Asunder.

[Myn]

(Apologies for the double post)

I specced up the PC on Aria last night, didn't realise it came with Windows so taking that out along with 4GB RAM should cancel the cost of the GTX 570.

I have a quick question about something though: I noticed the bundle comes with Arctic Silver 5 Thermal Compound. Does this have to be applied to the PC when it arrives or can it go without? It also got me wondering, does the PC get delivered with the graphics card installed or is it packaged separately?

Sorry for loads of questions. :)

[andyn]

(Apologies for the double post)

I specced up the PC on Aria last night, didn't realise it came with Windows so taking that out along with 4GB RAM should cancel the cost of the GTX 570.

I have a quick question about something though: I noticed the bundle comes with Arctic Silver 5 Thermal Compound. Does this have to be applied to the PC when it arrives or can it go without? It also got me wondering, does the PC get delivered with the graphics card installed or is it packaged separately?

Sorry for loads of questions. :)

The systems (as opposed to the Bundles) are completely built and stress tested as a unit, then shipped out as a working system which you should be able to switch on and use when it comes out of the box at your end. Thermal paste will have been pre-applied, graphics card will be plugged in, etc etc.

[Myn]

Thanks very much for clearing that up Andyn.