Some advice please?

[[7IR]581|Pvt.Md2a]

Hey guys, I have a few general questions about pc hardware, as Im pretty new to it all. It would be great if any of you could answer a few of my questions...

I just downloaded the Crysis demo, but it runs terribly... I can manage low alright. My pc specs are as follows:

CPU: Intel Core 2 6600 @ 2.4GHz (2 CPUs)
Memory: 2048Mb RAM
OS: Win XP
Direct X: 9.0c
GPU: NVIDIA GeForce 7600 GS 256Mb
Sound: Realtek HD Audio

Thats the basic stuff, Ive also attached a full copy of DxDiag if its useful. EDIT: Apparently not, it wont let me upload because the file is too big. Let me know if you need any other info... Okay, my questions are as follows

1) Do I need to get a new video card, and would it significantly improve performance?

2) If yes, which is recommended?

3) Does Crysis use both CPUs?

4) Automatically? Or do I need to do something...

5) Is there anything else that should get upgraded with mah pc?

6) I live in Spain, but dont speak the language. Where should I buy parts?

Thats all for now, Ill maybe update again if I think of anything =P Thanks for all your help in advance, and sorry for the nooby questions.. Any advice is greatly apprieciated. :)

[Bisley_Bob]

I'll answer the bits i know the answers to!

A new graphics card is definitely what's needed.
As for which card, it depends on your budget. The 8800GT would be one to go for if you have a low budget, but i'd say try and get at least an 8800GTS if you can afford it.
A sound card would be a good purchase as i find it so useful in games to hear where people are. But in my opinion you shouldn't skimp on a graphics card in order to get a sound card. What speakers/headset do you have? As there is no point getting a sweet soundcard if you're using £4.99 speakers from ASDA!

[[7IR]581|Pvt.Md2a]

Ive got a pretty good headset (At least I think so) Ive got the uhh... Logitech Premium USB Headset 350. So I guess Ill start saving for a graphics card. Are they easy to install, and will it matter if I buy it from a Spanish retailer? Thanks for your help!

[Bisley_Bob]

Just realised i gave some bad advice there, apparently the 8800GT is actually better than the GTS, NVidia just screwed their naming system.
It shouldn't matter if you buy it in spain, it'll be the same.

[[7IR]581|Pvt.Md2a]

Having a look on Nvidias website, They seem waay out of my price range. Is $300 what I should expect to pay? If it is... Thats a lot.

[Bisley_Bob]

If the 8800 GT or GTS is too expensive look at the 8600GTS, if that is too expensive, the 8600GT. You should also cosnsider ATi when you start going into the mid-range cards, but i'm really not up to date with them, i don't want to be spouting a load of rubbish! Find some reviews online, custompc.co.uk is always good.

[Wizrdwarts]

8800GT is around $250 for the 512mb version and around $200 for the 256mb version. (I think, not completely sure, I don't think they're selling 256mb GTs yet)

btw, 7900>8600

[CaptainKirk]

Really you only need to upgrade vid card if you intend to play Crysis... It should run everything else fine (and Crysis on low).

Also, how could you possibly live in Spain without picking up at least bits of the language? :)

[[7IR]581|Pvt.Md2a]

Ive only been here a couple of months, and I can speak enough to get around, but my spanish knowledge for computer things goes to 'ordenador', and stops there. I guess Ill keep having a look around at cards, or just leave it for a bit. Its just that Crysis is a really cool game =P

Thanks for all your help guys