Seasonic vs. Seasonic

[Gas Pipe Jimmy]

OK, after about 6 years with my existing rig, I decided that it's finally time for another computer. I bought pretty much the top of the line for what I wanted back then and I have to admit that I got more than enough use out of this thing. Infact, if I was not locked into RDRAM (Rambus) with an Intel 850 Motherboard, I think I could go on even longer.

I'm pretty settled on what I want and all that, but what I'm kinda stuck on is the power supply and how much capability I really need. I know the easy (and expensive) answer is to just grab some 1100 Watt monster and call it "done" but I'm almost absolutely positive that's an insane level of overkill, especially to my checking account.

So, the short version to my question is:

Is there a compelling reason to buy the Seasonic M12 700W over the M12 500W?
Do I REALLY gotta spend that extra $90?

This is what I'll be running.

Intel 975BX2

Intel Core 2 Duo E6600 Conroe 2.4GHz

Radeon X1950PRO 256MB

So, can I, or should I just drop the extra cash?
If so, why?

[burebista]

Your rig is fine with S-12 430, but I suggest a Corsair HX520 over M-12 500.
Or if you want absolute silence for a PSU with fan go for S-12 Energy Plus 550.

[Gas Pipe Jimmy]

Thanks for an answer.
It looks like the Corsair HX520 has one less SATA connector compared to the SeaSonic M12 SS-500HM, and costs a few dollars more.
How come you like that one better?

[GalvanizedYankee]

The corsair 520HX is built on the Seasonic M12 platform and has a 5 year warrenty. The Seasonic units have a 3 year warrenty....Go figure!

[burebista]

Originally Posted by Gas Pipe Jimmy

Thanks for an answer.
[...]and costs a few dollars more.

LOL! In my country Corsair HX520 is $40 cheaper than M-12 500. Go figure!

[Gas Pipe Jimmy]

Sometimes it's that way burebista.

If I give up going modular, It looks like the cheapest I can do this is for $99.00 with the Silverstone ST50EF.
Yeah, I think getting much under a hundred dollars is as close as I dare cut this one.

[GalvanizedYankee]

If you are looking for cheaper, check-out the Enhance ENP-5150GH. It is the same as that Silverstone minus sleeving, two SATA connects and only has a one year bulk warrenty. It can be found at eWiz.com.

[Gas Pipe Jimmy]

Hey, that is a nice one, especially for the money!
The only problem for me is that I need at least 3 SATA connectors.
(corrected - It has SIX!)

[GalvanizedYankee]

I bought an Enhance ENP-5140GH, 400W from eWiz for sister's comp.

Just use an adapter, Molex to SATA if you must or a SATA Y'splitter. Some SATA drives come with both power ports but use just one, the 4 pin Molex if it's present.

In time the 3.3V will be used by SATA drives but not yet.