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Hello there..
Don’t worry too much about the list you provided. As far as what is really needed for 3DS Max, you pretty much have it all figured out. It’s the CPU and System Memory what makes it all happen when it comes to the rendering part.
I have suggestions that may contribute to a solid build that should be reliable. Feel free to ask further.
--MoBo-- GIGABYTE GA-Z68XP-UD4 this, taking into account you know how to Overclock. The power management this board is designed to guarantee the necessary push to get that 2600k stretched.
--GPU / Graphics Card-- There is a limited list of software that really benefits from a workstation class GPU. If you are patient enough, make a list of the software you plan on using and check on their ability to do so. In general, you’d do fine with a last generation gaming GPU which shouldn’t necessarily be superclocked. Just make sure it’s Nvidia if your software is CUDA optimized like Adobe CS5. I’d go with a Quadro FX 4800 (if software allows to) or an Nvidia GTX 590 with 3072MB of memory if you’re not sure.
--HDD-- If your income will depend on this machine, setup a RAID and get yourself a remote storage over IP service for backup. Since the Z68 chipset provides a huge variety on storage management, I won’t go with details. I’d setup a 64GB SataIII SSD as cache paired with an Industrial class 500GB HDD (with the RAID). Personally, I prefer to have a storage service for my backup, but having another 500GB as backup won’t hurt. The advantages of having a caching SSD are huge but this again, depends on the application. For this kind of job, a 120+GB SSD for your programs and Operating System and a 500+GB backup Hard Drive will do just fine. RAID can be tricky. If you’re not familiar with it, get assistance. Intel 510 2.5” 120GB (SSD) is a good Solid State Drive that will make use of the full potential of SataIII ability on that MoBo. Keep in mind that storage systems are prone to failure, being SSD or HDD. Always backup.
--OPTICAL DRIVE--Any will do.. just check two things: If you want to burn Blurays or just DVD/CD’s and make sure it’s SATA interface. Samsung SH-222AB is ok for normal DVD/CD job.
--SOUND CARD-- You don’t need it unless for Professional apps. The integrated Realtek ALC889 on the MoBo has 8 Channels and good overall sound quality.
--POWER SUPPLY-- Since I don’t see the need for dual GPU based on your query, A good 750Watt 80+ Gold Certified PSU will work fine. CORSAIR AX750 is a good choice. It’s modular and runs cool and quiet if not abused.
--CPU FAN/HEATSIK-- For some overnatural power of will, I live in an Island and have 28C+ temps any day, which is not bad for my computer until I open the door and the conditioned air escapes. Add up condensation for fluctuation and regularly 60+% humidity… oh! and don’t forget the dust… so you may have a hint of why I have chosen the best to my knowledge cooling solution for my computer. Gone are the days of leak risk for the liquid cooling systems. Air cooling is invasive and heavy on the MoBo. I use an Antec Kuhler H2O 920. It allows to overclock and is silent enough to forget. But if you are hesitant about getting such, a Noctua NH-U12P keeps it cool and is silent enough. The color is far from anything else in most of the computer universe but it does the job.
Maybe this setup won’t even reach the USD$2500 mark but it will be more than enough for the described needs. The HAF X is a cool case with lots of space and air circulation. If you live in a dusty environment, reconsider. Cooler Master cases usually come with foam dust collectors which you can wash but are difficult to remove and stretch / degrade over time. Maybe you’d want to take a look at cases with nylon/plastic mesh filters which are easier to remove and wash. If you don’t mind having the case panel on the top (HAF X is a full tower case, so usually will be set near or on the floor), check out IN WIN Dragon Rider Black case. It has ugly fans but breathes awesomeness and… just check it, will ya!. I don’t understand why you want a full tower case but if it’s a must, the Dragon is worth considering. Since you’ll probably end up with some $$ on that budget, maybe a good pair of led monitors will close it nicely.
If the load for rendering is big, and you plan to do animations, maybe you need something else but since you asked for a single machine, this will do.
Good Luck!
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