Advice on upgrading my desktop with new display(s)

[jankai]

I have an old desktop that I still use and do not want to replace avoiding the cost but mostly repacing all cables, software etc and since in is humming along quite well I will revitalize it with an SSD and give it another year or two.

But I want to upgrade the display since the 19 inch that came with the computer is not working well with the software Sony Vegas 11.0 and especially W7 which I use.

I actually plan to buy two displays – one for project window and one for preview – to be able to work efficiently.

I do have some questions where I need your advice – if not specific but as a direction.

My budget is not a limitation but I hate to spend money on things that I do not need or use so I have no intention to spend any euro that I do not need to spend.

First – Which display size and resolution should I look for in order not to over nor underspecify?

Second – What kind of graphics card do I need without overspend on graphics capability ?

Third – Do I need two graphics cards for two displays if card slots is a limitation ?

Forth – Is it actually wise to spend money and more important perhaps – desktop space – on two displays or should I go for just one and save footprint on my desk?

Best regards

[Daniel Rutter]

one for preview – to be able to work efficiently.

This is exactly what I do.

Third – Do I need two graphics cards for two displays if card slots is a limitation ?

A decent graphics card will help. I use a GTX560ti for this (and gaming) and it works well for me.

Regarding screens... it really comes down to how much you want to spend. I do well with a ASUS VGA monitor at 1920x1080 (21.5 inch) and an old Samsung 4/3 monitor for previews. Ideally, if money isn't an issue... go with the biggest screens you can (more real estate for Vegas and Windows 7). I'd recommend two 24inch monitors, both at 1920x1080 and with HDMI input. This is my intention when money is a little more available.

[Dr. Benway]

It's up to you.

Crappy Samsung x2 or...

1x high end NEC or EIZO that will give you true colour?

[jankai]

Thanks!

Now I can do some serious shopping. :-)

[Dr. Benway]

I'd recommend two 24inch monitors, both at 1920x1080

24 is good, bigger is better. But for me resolution is also very important - the higher the better.

[drapeama]

I'd recommend two 24inch monitors, both at 1920x1080 and with HDMI input.

Of course it's a good setup, I'm fine with my Gateway/Samsung kit, 24" and 23" respectively.

Crappy Samsung x2 or...
1x high end NEC or EIZO that will give you true colour?

Same displays at least have the same colors displayed on both! On the other hand, if the second display is used mainly for "more space" or tools from the NLE, then it doesn't matter!

24 is good, bigger is better. But for me resolution is also very important - the higher the better.

24" is good of course. Bigger than that, it won't have much more than 1920x1080 (or 1200) so it's mainly the same resolution on a bigger screen. No big deal.

[Dr. Benway]

so it's mainly the same resolution on a bigger screen. No big deal.

No, I am talking high resolution - not for video editing but critical photo editing/viewing. I know 1920x1080 or 1920x1200 is normal but give me 2560x1600 or higher.