Newer ATI Video Cards

[tahoebob]

I'm planning on replacing my HTPC that's running Sage with a new P4 box with 9x5 chipset and am considering a couple of options. My choices for video cards (all using the PCI Express X16 slot and all with DVI out) appear to be
- 128 mb ATI Radeon X300 SE
- 128 mb ATI Radeon X800 SE
- 256 mb ATI Radeon X600 PRO
- 256 Nvidia Geoforce 6800 GTO
Does anyone know how these cards would work? I am not too interested in the Nvidia card because while it uses the PCI Express slot, it is wide enough so that it covers one of the PCI slots & I really need all available slots. I've read that the Radeon X800 SE is more powerful than the 9800 so would that do it? The Radeon X600 PRO comes on my least preferred vendor. If anyone has any knowledge of these cards I would appreciate input.

[stanger89]

My advice is to go with the 6800 or one of the 6600s. I've heard great things about both.

EG:
http://www.newegg.com/app/ViewProduc...150-077&depa=0

[tahoebob]

Thanks Stranger. The box I'm considering will have an Intel 925X Express chipset. It comes standard with an "integrated 5.1 Channel Capable Audio" feature. Since I will be running the audio into my new fairly high end receiver, do I really need to get one of the optional sound cards? Thanks for your input.

[stanger89]

Soundcard? That depends on two things IMO:
1) Does the motherboard have digital out?
2) Do you plan on listening to a lot of music?

If 1 and 2, then I'd recommend an additional soundcard (unless you can verify that the onboard audio doesn't resample). If 1 and not 2 then you probably don't need a soundcard.