I want to ask about spec-ing a Pro with a decent graphics card for games. While it's not the only thing I will use the computer for, it will be one of it's main uses. Is it better to get one with the default 2600 and then buy a more recent Windows graphics card like an ATI 4870 and use boot camp? If I do this can I buy any PC/Windows card and keep both in so that Vista will use the PC one and OSX will use the 2600? I don't want to have to switch things around internally every time I boot to a different OS. Or should I just BTO the Nvidia 8800GT and keep things simple? As far as I can tell the 8800GT should give decent performance, at least for another few months..
The specific description you describe will work.
If you use two graphics cards, one for each OS, and don't want to remove them, the easiest way is to use cards from the same manufacturer.
Two different card makers can be used, but you have to get into windows device manager and disable the OS X card. Windows will only accept drivers from one maker at a time. SLI or Crossfire, though in this case, only one card is used. Obviously much more difficult, and too much aggravation, particularly if you run into a problem, IMO. Besides, ATI cards are doing better at Core Image than nVidia ATM. (Drivers just don't work as well).
If you are willing to wait, the 4870 is supposed to release a Mac version, though the time frame is currently unknown.
Another solution would be to use the 3870 Mac & PC ed. One card, and works reasonably well for both OS's. Just keep the 2600 in case you ever need to reinstall OS X, as it wouldn't recognize the 3870. Snow Leopard may solve this issue.
You will have to determine if the 3870 would work well enough for you in Windows gaming.
Need to decide on CPU too, mainly single 2.8 vs dual, but I'm guessing I can dig that up in the archives as I'm sure that's been asked before!
It's best to get both processors at the same time, as Apple only charges ~$500 for it. To upgrade later, you will spend much more. Currently the CPU (E5462) can be found for $823.00 (street) + $102.00 (or so) for the CPU Cooler. Obvious once you see the actual numbers.
Also, has the price of the Mac Pro come down at all this year? I was planning to hold out to early next year and see if the Mac Pro got an update as it feels a bit silly buying now at the same price they were almost a year ago - for the same technology?
Apple doesn't drop the price as the year drags on. At best, they may upgrade some of the base equipment, ie. use a larger HDD.
The best thing price wise, is the refurb section. You can also find New at other sites, at a slight discount. Check out Amazon.com, macsales.com, and smalldog.com. They, or even eBay are a good place to purchase Apple Care if you're interested.
If you can wait until Jan - Mar '09, the next Mac Pro should become available. They would likely announce it in Jan, approx. Macworld. Shipping will likely be a bit later, as Intel hasn't begun shipping the new CPU's yet, and aren't scheduled to do so until next year (Q1), so Mar is realistic. I hope.
