Help the new guy pick a MOBO for his C2D

[imported_MrPresident]

I don't need:
I don't OC (but I could learn I suppose)

I don't need SLI (I'm not a hardcore gamer)

I don't care too much about onboard graphics because I'll have a graphics card.

I don't need "Media Center" ins/outs like S-Vid, coax, etc... (I don't care to attach CPU to TV. I'll watch my MPEG and AVI movies on my computer monitor)

I do need:

I do need ample USB2 ports for front and rear (I use a lot of digital cameras, external HD, software dongles, USB printer, flash memory sticks, etc...)

I do need to be able to hook up 2 SATA HDs

I do need to be able to hook up a graphics card like 7900GS

I do need to be able to run decent memory (800MHz dual channel DDR2)

I do need to be able to hook up 2 SATA drives (DVD / CD)

Needs to fit in my Antec Solo case and run efficiently with the E6750 or higher.


So, what's there to choose from that is reliable, efficient, good warranty, and will fit my needs without being complete overkill? Notice, I didn't say anything about it needing to be cheap or under $50 or anything... I just want quality without a lot of the "fluff" that I don't need to spend money on and not use. I don't need an OCers dream board but it would be nice if there was some upside potential and the room to grow into future chipsets.

 

[imported_MrPresident]

Also, eSATA could be nice, as well as firewire (in case I upgrade my external HD from USB).

 

[SerpentRoyal]

$95 AR Abit IP35 @ MWAVE. Get a separate eSATA card for best performance.

http://www.mwave.com/mwave/vie...a=BA23928&RSKU=BA23928

 

[VirtualLarry]

Or get the Gigabyte P35-DS3R, it comes with an ESATA adaptor bracket. No firewire though.

 

[Heidfirst]

P35-DS3P/DS4 does have firewire though

 

[imported_MrPresident]

Thank you for your input. I'll look into these and report back if I have questions... which I'm sure I will.