PCI-E 3.0 worth it

[Angel25]

Hello I would like to know if the new 7000 series from AMD is worth it. I have an 6870 which has been pretty good, but when playing Rift I can't max all the settings, and sometimes it gets a bit choppy. I was thinking of getting 7970 this summer, but I would like to know if it's true that I would need an Intel 3rd generation cpu in order to get the full advantage of the new GPU 7000 series, is this true?

Also I got an GS600 corsair would that be enough to power the new card?

Thanks a bunch!

My sig has my current rig.

[Drakoes]

PCI-E 3.0 makes little to no difference in terms of FPS. This is because the majority of the current-generation CPUs aren't even close to using up the full bandwidth of PCI-E 2.0. PCI-E 2.0 is already fast enough as it is for almost everyone. Note that there are a few exceptions however, and that is applicable to certain high-end GPUs, such as the GTX 690 card, especially when you're several of them (this is probably not a practical thing for you though, so don't worry about it).

As for the PSU, the GS600 should be enough.

[DeltrusDisc]

I used to play Rift and I can say without a doubt that you are on the right track for how to improve the FPS in that game! hehe. Very graphically intensive indeed, and you have the CPU set, the 7970 will be an excellent compliment to it. You don't need PCI-E 3.0 however, to take full advantage of the 7970 and your PSU should be enough, so enjoy!

[Angel25]

Thank you all! ^_^