Will system 76 install non-stock hardware?

[echo314]

I'm going to purchase a Wildebeest, almost for sure this time. Like 99%. I really like the i7 8xx procs compared to the Core 2 Quads (although I admit I have had trouble finding easily comparable benchmarks), but why does it stop at a 9600GT graphics card? It seems this system would be perfect for something like a GTS 250, like the Wild Dog has optioned. Thomas, I know you kinda answered my question already, that the Wildebeest was meant to be between the Ratel and Wild Dog in price and performance, but I have more questions! Is this the case so that Sys76 can have another filler comp (in a good sense, smoothing transitions between comp models) between those to for completeness purposes, (ie. the graphics card options were set lower purposefully), or perhaps the drivers are wonky atm? I'm really leaning toward getting the Wildebeest and then just upgrading the card later. I was just wondering why the graphics options were limited, since I would rather purchase it with a more powerful card out of the box and the Wildebeest certainly seems capable of taking on the Wild Dog.

Can Sys76 install the GTS 250 (or similar card) on the Wildebeest? (ie. any custom order option?)

Thanks for any insight you can provide, and for putting up with my wall of text! I know you don't necessarily have access to all the information.

[thomasaaron]

There actually is a technical reason we stopped where we did: power suppy.

Most of our machines are based on customer feedback to one degree or another, and there was a big call for something between the Ratel and the Dawg (price-wise and performance-wise). Thus, the Wildebeest.

They probably could have amped up the psu if they wanted to provide more wattage, but then they would have been encroaching on the Dawg (both price-wise and performance-wise).

From a business perspective, it is a balancing act.

[echo314]

Ok thanks for the info. I understand how it would be odd to market two comps at the same price/performance point. As I look for a new card when I upgrade, I'll keep in mind to upgrade the power supply as necessary.