bten wrote on 2024-02-13, 16:44:
All I'm asking:
What GPU and Soundcard combo can I get for a good price that would give me great compatibility for both DOS and Win98 games?
Assuming you have AGP:
Geforce 2 MX400 or Geforce 4 MX440 or Geforce MX460
These are affordable, accessible and compatible.
ISA, for DOS:
ESS AudioDrive ES1868F or 1869F or Sound Blaster Vibra16
These are generally accessible and affordable. People sometimes complain they are not real OPL (some Vibra16 are), but close enough.
PCI for Windows 98:
Creative Sound Blaster Live! SB0060 or SB0100 or SB0220
Generally affordable, common and support EAX2
For both W98 and DOS:
ISA: Creative Sound Blaster AWE64 Value
PCI: ESS Solo-1
Not as affordable as they used to be, but still not too expensive. There are some compromises on both the W98 and DOS fronts, but you cover both with a single card so you can come out cheaper than having both a dedicated DOS and Windows sound card.
bten wrote on 2024-02-13, 16:44:
What storage should I use?
For convenience, SATA SSD with an IDE adapter. You don't need more than 64GB at this performance level. Don't go above 128GB.
bten wrote on 2024-02-13, 16:44:
Do I need to replace the PSU? (it seems fine)?
It's recommended. Your PC don't seem to be heavy on the 5V rail so I'd expect any decent quality PSU with more than 15A on their 5V rail can handle it. You could look for 18A just to be safe.