Which GPU?

Hello Grant. When it comes to computers, you can't really 'future-proof' much; but yes, the GTX 590 is a good option to go with. You can probably run all current games and any upcoming releases on full settings. I think the HD 6990 might be superior to the 590 so if that's the case, I'd say go for it.

Just a few things to keep in mind before adding a second card. You'll need an open PCI slot (I'm not sure how many PCI slots are there in the Area-51) - if you are planning to install a sound card, for example, it'll probably fill up the extra slot. Also, considering the sizes of these GPUs, I think they take up the space for 2 slots per card? Assuming, you do happen to have space for another card, you'll need atleast a 1KW PSU to run dual 590s without any issues. You'll probably have to install additional cooling solutions too, these things run rather hot in SLI.

between those the 590 just because you can put another in later. But if you really want the best card get the 6990. If alienware does not have it just get the cheapest option and buy a 6990 from another retailer. Then you can add another 6990 later. A 6990 is the best solution at the moment. but if you dont want all that the hassle a 590 will do nicely.

So between the 3gb gtx 590, dual 1gb gtx 480, or dual 2gb radeon hd 6970.  Which would be the best?

Be warned, though. Despite it's power, the 6990 roars like an engine (I'm not exaggerating) - unless you use headphones like I do, it can be annoying at times. If you can handle that, get the 6990, or go for the 590, the difference in performance is not too much, but the noise can be a minus for many people.

Also, I noticed the 6990 is more expensive than the 590 in the Alienware listings, I thought it would be the other way around? Or I'm very mistaken...

@Grant1699

jeffcmfrt66's made a valid point, I would definitely follow his advice.

Hi grant1699

If I were purchasing a new system I would give Alienware a call to confirm a few things before a purchase. I read a  post  where someone just purchased new machines and when he set it up it had vidio catd problems it was configured for Crossfire or SLI and the second video card had no video out plugs if I remember correct it was nVida based GPU's and their was no way to test the second GPU being he could not conect the second card to a monitor. That is something I would look into prior to ordering as their is no way of testing the second video card without a way to plug a monitor in! Also if you upgrade down the road and want to use the second card  in one way or another weather it be used to maybe upgrade another PC you own or even sell it  as some do to get a little money back to put twoards their upgrade as many do.Without the ability to be able to plug it into a monitor not good! 

  I also read  and I think it was the same person and post that  the video cards were under clocked or under volted....they were limited performance wize in some sort of way  meaning if you were to purchase the same exact model card elsewhere both would have the ability to hook up to a monitor and would also perform better. One other thing to take note of is the top performer dual video cards require a lot of power and when you run them in SLI/Crossfire they will be running quad..... if you do choose Crossfire/SLI I  depending on the GPU's you choose the power supply does 1000 watt does not leave much headroom these days. Some are resorting to install additional power boosters that fit in the drive bays! The power supplies for most  gaming machines 1000 OR 1200 Watts was ok. But now power hungry gaming PC'S ...I think that will be changing and more systems will have 1500 Watt & 1800 Watt power supplies for Tri & Quad SLI/Crossfire configurations. It is either going to go 2 directions PC gaming machine manufacturers will start useing higher watt power supplies to feed the power hungry cards and configurations or the development of newer performance hardware will manage and use less power which they already try their best to do. So Im leaning twoards we will start to see higher  watt PSU's in our gaming machines

Sorry for geting long winded but I would give Dell a call before ordering to confirm a few things I mentioned above being this was a recent purchase and post.

Good luck & best wishes

jeffcmfrt66 

I think that will be changing and more systems will have 1500 Watt & 1800 Watt power supplies for Tri & Quad SLI/Crossfire configurations.

As a side note ...

1200w appears to be the limit for shared AC electrical power in a standard USA residence.

Has anyone else looked closely at the 1500w (and larger) power supplies? The power cord is different. They are built to only plug directly into the wall like a large freezer. For properly wired electrical (to code), those single socket wall plugs are only installed when wired to a dedicated 20amp breaker. You would need other wiring for room lighting and other peripherals. It also eliminates the use of consumer level UPS (Battery Backup and Power Conditioning) equipment.