Looking for value MB of the latest design, sub $100

[vvrok]

I am running out of options to upgrade my Asus A7V, so I decided to build a new system. I am not a gamer, but I would like to be able to "do" (process, edit, etc.) images and video. I don't want to spend a lot, ideally paying less than $100 for the motherborad and then figuring out what is left for the CPU. I guess the new board should be able to run on 400Mhz. I don't really care for FireWire right now, but maybe I will put SATA drive when they cecome cheaper. Don't really plan to o/c that much. What are my options? I would appreciate any advises.

 

[pspada]

Since you don't intend to overclock go for the Fry's dealie of the week, you'll get a processor (from 1800+ to 2400+, depending on price) and mobo for less than $100. Then you're good to go, or you can spend what you would have on a CPU on something else, like that SATA setup, or a better video card.

 

[Aenslead]

There are some nice solutions out there.

For starters, you have nForce 2 motherboards. NF7-S is a cheap and well equiped solution, fast, overclockable, and a nice over-all solution.

If you are concerned more with features than speed and o/c-ability, then Gigabyte's GA-7VT600 1394 with VIA's KT600 might do the job for you.

 

[pspada]

Oh, and the Epox 8RDA+, and the FIC AU13 (both nForce2 chipset) are $85 at newegg. 8RDA+ is a stellar overclocker, and the FIC motherboard last forever.

 

[PING]

8rda+ is now $80.00. that's a steal on that price.

 

[lobadobadingdong]

the shuttle nforce2 IGP offering mn31n is a good solution if you want to scrimp on the oc ability, a very loaded uATX board. and cheap. ~$90

 

[vvrok]

Some nice recommndations, thanks. That $80 8RDA+ Epox board looks very tempting for the price. What is it lacking that people are opting to buy Abit, Asus, etc. boards which cost 30%+ more?

Also, somebody just posted in another thread special @newegg on Biostar M7NCD for $58. How does this Biostar compare to the Epox 8RDA+?

 

[Aenslead]

Biostar is basicly the 'generic' motherboard. No performance enhancing features, no overclocking, no bells and whistles... just your motherboard.

EPOX is... well... EPOX.

 

[carpenter]

Check out the review on the Solteck board on the main Anandtech page.