Help with memory!

[gfx]

ok people... this is a really weird situation... i am buyin some new RAM... i have chosen to get 1GB(512 x 2) of corsair XMS... no not the best... the stuff is $133 on newegg(decent)... since corsair (XMS) is on the approved memory vendor list for my mobo (A7N8X-E Deluxe) and since the A7N8X-E Deluxe is gettin old (yeah the Athlon XP's are fading!) thats about the only decent RAM selection on there approved list(outdated)...

my problem is... there are 2 different sets of memory with the same model name... 1 is the exact model number (TWINX1024-3200C2) and one has a PT on the end... they are all but identical... same CAS timings... same pc-3200...

the problem is... the one pair that is the exact model from my list... has some crappy black heatsinks that look like cardboard or something... and the other ones (the one with the PT at the end) have nice aluminum heat sinks on em...

my question is... is it worth it to get the exact motherboard suggested sticks?... from countless people i have heard that when you have memory that your mobo is specially approved for... then its easier to overclock... runs cooler... runs more stable... and has less problems in dual channel mode... now... i wouldnt even be asking this question if i didnt see a big FAT negative review specifically for my mobo (the very last review) on the pair that has the PT on the end... i was sold but then THAT...

i need some help here...

 

[Blain]

The PT heat spreader is exactly the same material as the "crappy black heatsinks that look like cardboard or something". L:laugh:L

 

[Jiggz]

I've got the same mobo and never had problem oc'ing as long as the rams are rated to the same speed. Like an XP 2500+ oc'ing it to 225 FSB from 166 will obviously require at least PC3200 or PC3500. The bottom line is you can choose the ram recommended by the mobo for a higher pricer or get something you think fits you need. Personally, since XP is almost out of the door, I would go for the highest rated rams I can get for future upgrades like PC 4000 or PC4200.

 

[gfx]

jiggz... thank you for the feedback, but i am extremely limited on my "budget" $133 is pushing my limit to the max... and the reason i am getting 1GB is because games like counter-strike: source and EQ-2 are riding me like i dont think you would even believe...

i thought the rule was RAM can only run in dual channel if its your MOBO's standard? and lets say i did put 2 512 sicks of PC-4000... would there be different limits or restrictions?

the bottom line is i need 1GB (dual channel) for under 150... D: any recommendations?