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My friend just started as a graphic artist and asked me what kind of desktop he should get (3d artist, so he has to run some windows variant).

What do you guys think between a big-brand (Dell, HP, etc) or build-it-yourself? Also, which big-brands currently have the best support?

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You should replace "Graphic Artist" with "3d Modeler" or "3d Artist" in the title. – Jonathan Sampson Jul 15 '09 at 23:29
thanks, changed. – John Jul 16 '09 at 0:39
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3 Answers

up vote 1 down vote accepted

If you are looking for power vs. price, then build-it-yourself is typically going to be your best bet. You will almost always be able to build a power PC for cheaper than ordering one pre-built because you will be able to pick and choose from the best priced prime components. This is also assuming that you are not factoring in your own time and frustration in the process (if you are not familiar with building, it can be frustrating at times).

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up vote 1 down vote

I've ran Maya on relatively normal machines. Granted, rendering takes a bit longer if you're dealing with reflections, realistic lighting, etc. It likely won't make much of a difference. The differences will come in when you start to build a rendering-farm. I've got one friend who has built four massively-powerful machines to handle the load of rendering his projects.

Occasionally, you can find a 3d-Group reviewing specific machines.

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up vote -2 down vote

http://www.boxxtech.com/

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I don't see how this is really helpful in him making his decision (or any future user) other than a brand plug. – TheTXI Jul 15 '09 at 23:22
General questions require general answers. – Charlls Jul 15 '09 at 23:35
Do you have specific experience with boxxtech for builds? I'm fine with plugs if you can say why you like em. – John Jul 16 '09 at 0:41
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