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    What specs should I go for?

    Discussion in 'Alienware 14 and M14x' started by CrossXedge, May 15, 2011.

  1. CrossXedge

    CrossXedge Notebook Consultant

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    Hey guys, I'm fairly new to the forums. I've been lurking around here after reading up on the M14x. I was thinking of getting an Alienware for my birthday that's coming up. I was going for a very topped out upgraded M11x R2 at first but then they released the M14 and found that the M14 is better.

    I'm basically looking for a very high end gaming computer, one that can run games at a very good setting, not max but decent and playable. But I also plan on doing schoolwork with it. I may even do some DJ gigs on the side later on, and I didn't want to plop down another 1500 for a Macbook.

    Anyways, down to my questions. So I was reading through the forums and some people were saying that upgrading the processor from the 2620qm to the 2720 wouldn't affect significantly. I'm wondering with all the practical uses for it other than gaming, should I spend the extra $150 for it? I also wanted to know if I should opt for the 3gb 555m as I plan on gaming on a Vizio 37 inch LED TV through the VGA port or HDMI port, if it would make a difference?
     
  2. Serephucus

    Serephucus Notebook Deity

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    The stock config will do you fine in that regard. Pretty much the only things that are worth upgrading on the M14x are the screen, HDD and WiFi card, as well as bluetooth, if you want it.

    We haven't confirmed this, but from the specs, it looks like the 16x9 panel is brighter than the 13x7. There's also the fact though that you'd be lowering your average framerate, going for the higher resolution, though you can of course play at 13x7 with the 16x9 screen, though usually this doesn't look as good as if you were using the 13x7 screen at its native resolution. Just something to consider.

    If you're looking for more space, adding a second hard drive in place of your DVD drive is an option (HIDevolution will do this for you, if you buy through them.)
     
  3. CrossXedge

    CrossXedge Notebook Consultant

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    Sounds good thanks. I think I'll just opt for the basic upgrades then but using their promotion that already takes $100 off. And as long as the framerates don't drop significantly to unplayable, I think I can live with a brighter screen. :D
     
  4. BetaFire

    BetaFire Notebook Guru

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    Does anyone know about the Soundblaster audio card? I enjoy higher quality sound, I was wondering how well these would compliment my Sennheiser headphones.

    Oh, and sorry if I hijack your thread.
     
  5. BatBoy

    BatBoy Notebook Nobel Laureate

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