Hey folks! I’ve been looking to build out a new machine for ProxMox virtualization. I plan to host a TrueNAS Instance, an Ubuntu Server Instance (running multiple docker containers related to procuring and streaming media), and a Windows VM for gaming. I will also have a couple of less consistently on VMs for testing out new distros and schoolwork.
My budget is roughly $1000 not including storage, and I already have some of the components I will need (see below). What I’ve got laid out is what I am looking to buy, and I’m asking for input as to how “future proof” this is. I’d like to avoid upgrading any components for five years. Power efficiency is not a major concern, as my utilities are fixed irrespective of use. My only concern is budget at time of purchase and sustainability. I’d also like to make sure this setup is compatible with my intended use case.
Parts List:
- CPU: Intel Core i5-13400F Desktop Processor 10 cores (6 P-cores + 4 E-cores) 20MB Cache
- GPU 1 (For Ubuntu transcoding passthrough): NVIDIA GTX 1060 3GB (Already Owned)
- GPU 2 (For Windows VM/Parsec Gaming): AMD Radeon RX 7600 8GB
- RAM: TEAMGROUP Elite DDR4 2 x 32GB 3200MHz (PC4-25600) CL22
- Motherboard: MSI PRO Z690-A
- PSU: MSI MPG A750GF 80+ Gold (Already Owned)
- SATA Expansion Card: BEYIMEI PCIe SATA Card x8 Port
- Case: NZXT H710
- Storage (SSD): Samsung 870 EVO SATA III SSD 1TB 2.5” (Already Owned x4)
- Storage (HDD): Seagate IronWolf 3Tb NAS 5900RPM (Plan to buy x4)
Note: I did go with a 2x 32GB RAM Configuration as I plan to expand the system to 128GB in the next few weeks. Compatibility has only been confirmed with PCPartPicker, who’s reliability I am not sure of. If there are issues you see, please let me know.
Note 2: I will be sourcing as much of this used as possible given the current market. If you’re selling any of these components, or parts that may be compatible, feel free to let me know.
Note 3: I am fully aware that this setup may be somewhat stupid, but I wanted it to be reasonably aesthetic because I don’t own a rack and would like to have the machine visible. It was also for this reason that low noise is a concern, and my CPU fan is an Arctic Alpine 17 CO I have lying around.
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If you need a lot of VMs, going with an i5 is fine, better a normal one, avoid the F.
Just to say, NAS and docker (even 100), work easy on a dual core or quad core CPU, more is just for the VMs.
I would avoid the Gaming VM and get a Gaming PC. For obvious reason, compatibility, latency, anti-piracy software like Denuvo etc normally don’t like VM etc.
Instead of 4 3TB drives, i would get a single 12TB drive, maybe 2 for parity.
The PSU is overkill, get a 300/400W one.
No need for the GPU, HW transcoding work a ton better with the integrated iGPU, using an external one would be a massive downgrade, of course you need a normal CPU, avoid the F one.
For the sata card, i think an HBA would be better, but i’m not an expert on that.
How much does power cost in your area? The 13400F has a TDP of 65 watts. Not bad, but not great for a system running 24/7.