Help me get a mobo

[Toddo97]

For my new build I was looking at Asus boards, but have read that some people have hit overclocking limitations on them (I've never OC'd before, but want to get started w/ this one) The only reason I've seen not to go DFI is that the setup is a little complicated. Which board should I get for a x2 3800+, 2 gb of Patriot ram (if my outpost order comes through)? Don't care about sli or raid.

Thanks!

 

[Aznguy1872]

DFI is not as complicated as you think it is. It is by far the best overclocking board. Although there are massive settings in the bios but half of them you don't have to touch and can leave it on auto. I recommend you get the DFI lanparty Ultra to make sure you get the best overclock out of your X2 3800.

 

[evilharp]

As Aznguy1872 says, there are scads of settings in the DFI bios you can use to max out your OC. Be warned, it isn't always super easy. DFI boards can be picky when it comes to RAM, so check that Patriot to make sure it will work.

Check DFI-Street, the official DFI forum. Ask about the ram and the board you want. Most important: Read other users opinions!

What else will you use in your overclocked system (PSU, cooling, etc...)?

 

[Toddo97]

Thanks for the replies and the site. If I the Patriot deal comes through, I'll make sure to check for compatibility. As for other components, right now I'm looking at an XP-90 for a processor cooler. I've got a Modstream 450 for my psu and just got in on the BFG 7800GT OC deal from dell. I saw someone on HardOCP did an easy video card mod using his stock cpu fan that I may try a little later. As for a case, right now I'm leaning towards a Silverstone Temjin06.

Thanks!

 

[lifeguard1999]

DFI is the way to go. I have it and I love it.

 

[Maluno]

DFI if you are an overclocker. That is what I would recommend if you are really into getting the most performance. If you don't want to overclock, or don't plan on pushing your oc so far, then check out some of the other solutions available such as the popular epox board.

 

[vanvock]

Don't let the complicated crap scare you, get the DFI Ultra-D & it'll do whatever you want to do. As with any setup especially when OC'ing you need to do some homework. Make sure your PSU is up to the task as well as that's critical. These boards have been around long enough now to get it right the first time if you do a little research beforehand.

 

[SPQQKY]

The Modstream 420 will not be enough for your system. DFI recommends a 480w + PSU and if you have any problems with the board, you better lie to them and tell them you have a 480w or better PSU or they will not touch an RMA for you with a ten foot pole. Many compatibility issues with RAM and PSUs.....good luck, if you get it going, it will be very fast.

 

[Budarow]

Personally, I avoided the DFI because I didn't want any board which was the least bit "picky" with RAM. I also picked up the Patriot RAM (2 sticks@2GBs for $207 shipped). I ended up with the EVGA SLI mobo and 7800GT deal for $359 (after shipping and $40 MIR) and it overclocks EXACTLY the amount I wanted since my PC is in a WARM room (see sign.)

Also, many peeps say the DFI board HAS TO have a PSU with native 24-pin ATX power. Some use 20-pin with no problems though. Another reason why I avoided DFI.

If you chose a "highly overclockable mobo"...it kinda makes sense to me that it might be somewhat picky working with other components since it's very design "pushes" the limits from the getgo.

IMO.

Regards,

Bud

 

[anandtechrocks]

I love my Ultra-D, but that being said this is my second set of OCZ VX 4000 ram, being that my mobo killed my first set. Ever since then I've stopped using their optional 5V rail vdimm feed. On a second note, I really like ASUS boards too! So either one would be great.

 

[Toddo97]

The Modstream 420 will not be enough for your system. DFI recommends a 480w + PSU

Has anyone else had or heard of problems w/ using a 450w psu when oc'ing a dfi?

 

[potato28]

Not that ull have problems, just that if u need to RMA u need to lie or they won't talk to u again.