[comp.sys.ibm.pc] Hardware recommendations needed...

george@ccvr1.ncsu.edu (George Browning) (12/20/89)

1) I'm choosing between two different 386/33 systems.  One at PC Brand
and one at Gateway 2000.  Both total system prices are around $5500.
Does anybody have one of these machines?  Any opinions?  Speedwise
are they about the same?

2) Gateway 2000 lets you choose between the Microscience 150meg, or
for an extra $300 you can get either the CDC Wren III or Miniscribe
3180E (both around 150meg).  The Microscience is a 28msec,1000kb/sec 
drive.  The last two are 17msec,800kb/sec drives.  The CDC is the
only one that is full height.  Which do you recommend?  In my opinion
the faster access time is worth the $300 -- do you agree? 
I have the feeling that 800kb/sec is good enough :-)
I believe all come with the Adaptec 2223B controller (ESDI).

3) I'm used to the Apple Macintosh Extended Keyboard.  Is anyone
familiar with a keyboard (for the PC) that has the same feel?

4) My friend has a NEC MultiSync 3D monitor -- best choice?

5) Lastly, Infoworld gave the Ahead Systems VGA Wizard video card
an amazing 8.7!!  This blows away the rest of the pack.  The total
price for the 512k version is $259 retail!  Does anybody have one
of these?  Has anyone heard of the company?

Thanks for any help -- please post on comp.sys.ibm.pc in case others
are interested.
I'm trying to put together the ultimate 386/33 dream system.
Any help would be greatly appreciated.

george

_____________________________________________________________________
| George Browning                  North Carolina State University  |
| george@shumv1.ncsu.edu                               Raleigh, NC  |
|___________________________________________________________________|