Asus, DFI, or Epox for AMD x2?

[RobDMB]

I'm building a system that will include an AMD x2 processor. I want the system to be as stable as possible and I am not concerned about overclockability. I've been looking around and it seems the asus a8n-e, dfi lanparty ut nf4 ultra-d and epox ep-9npa+ ultra all get decent reviews. I saw the asus doesnt have firewire while the others do. While i like firewire its not a deal breaker if it is still the best motherboard. Any advice you could give me I would appreciate it as this is my first build. Also if there are any notable differences between them or any other board I should consider I am open to suggestions. Thanks

 

[ChiPCGuy]

Why not consider the ABit KN8 Ultra? I did a forum review of it. Search it up if you should so desire. Awesomely stable mobo. I have used the EPoX and A8N-E as well, and both of those boards are fine. One thing to watch out for is if you want a 7800GTX, the EPoX board will force you to use flat cables as the PCI-E x16 slot is right in line with the IDE connectors and the 7800GTX runs right over them.

 

[RobDMB]

Anything that makes the abit stand out compared to the other three? or is it just another good stable/board to consider. -rob

 

[ChiPCGuy]

Just another good and stable board. The one advantage it shares with the EPoX is that the MCP is not in a heat pocket under long video cards like it would be on the ASUS. This may be of concern if you want to passively cool the MCP. The ABit also uses aluminum polymer oc-con caps for the major part of the VRM that supplies current to the CPU, although not an overriding consideratin, oc-con caps are generally indicative of a longer lived board given all else is equal (good board design to begin with, etc.)

 

[RobDMB]

I basically plan to use plan to use the motherboar as is. i don't plan to make any modifications to it. I just want a good solid system that is not picky about stuff like ram.

 

[vanvock]

This DFI board is completly stable although I've seen a lot of posts saying it's picky with RAM. It was (and still is) a fun build & I'm very pleased. My first build was on an EPOX & it still runs like a champ after several years of service. I like the way ABIT boards are layed out & this build started out to be a NF7 but the architecture changed on the way. ASUS has AFAIK always had a good rep for quality & stability. The point is that most any of these new boards can be the base of a good system if you do your homework & don't skimp on the other components. Don't buy a good motherboard & fit it with junk & then blame it when there are problems. There are always quirks & the unforeseen to deal with on any of them. Pick one that's got the features you want & have at it. Good luck with your build.