I really couldn’t recommend the ASUS M5A97 R2.0 for the FX-8320 or 8350. It’s a 4+2
VRM (not just an important factor for OCing anymore). Not enough. Those chips will overtax it, in other words there will be wide voltage fluctuation and more potential of failure as a direct result (VRM’s the only thing that keeps your CPU and RAM from receiving the full-wallop from the PSU). Can it be done? Yes. Should it be done? Absolutely not. Not if you actually care about stability, performance and quite frankly longevity. So, I would get a board with no less than 6+2 VRM for those chips. Almost nothing else is as important as that specification on a board when going AMD on a budget (just because the chips fit the socket does NOT mean the newer chips are actually suited to the older boards. I have massive disrespect for manufacturers marketing really old boards for capability on the latest chips. That’s just dirty).
So anyway. Also, factor into your budget for a really good HSF (check
this out). The best performing one you can afford and which will fit inside your chosen case (whichever one that is to be – double, nay triple, check that). You are going to need it, especially if you ever get up to 30C ambient temperatures where you are (we get up to 43C here). These chips really do run hot. Sticking to the stock fan is a mistake and a headache in waiting. If you stick with the stock fan, you definitely are in danger of cresting right over the 62C core limit. I don’t recommend it.
And, there’s absolutely nothing wrong with AMD. My 8350 knocks my socks off. If you can or even want to spend a ballpark of $100 more (plus hidden additional costs for “’K’ series to OC and also ‘Z’ series on the MB), feel free. Not necessary IMO. Again, there is absolutely nothing wrong with AMD and I am not just saying that because I have AMD either. I don’t frankly give a fig which one, so long as it meets or exceeds my needs and fits my budget. That’s presently not Intel, as for many. Just had to drop that. Mine handles Wolfenstein: The New Order on Ultra with absolutely no stuttering or significant frame drops, alright? Seamless.
As far as the PSU, that will be determined by your overall hardware draw. You will also need to check the graphics card’s minimum recommendations for the amperage on the 12V rail. Apart from that, you should utilize
this to figure out what you need right now, and/or what you will need for any additional future expansions (SSD/HDD’s, Fans, USB devices without power adapters, etc.). Do not forget to adjust for capacitor aging (very important). When in doubt, just throw on a 750. Plenty for one card and typical extras (even SLI/CF, depending).
Lastly, double-checking a build with
this is highly recommended. It’s handy indeed.
