Motherboard recommendations? (for P4 3.0E)

[imported_markj]

Hello,

I need a new motherboard... the CPU will be a new 3.0E P4 800mhz fsb (socket 478,) and it's going into a new Antec Sonata case with 380w pwr supply. I don't need top-of-the-line, and don't want bargain-bin junk, but am looking for good value. I'm flexible on price as long as I'm comfortable I'm getting good gear.

Features desired would included dual-channel DDR (not DDR2, I already have 1gb Mushkin dual,) SATA (in addition to parallel ATA/IDE,) USB2.0, built-in ethernet, and Firewire would be nice. I dont't require built-in audio or video, but built-in audio would be acceptable.

What would you recommend? And would you know of any current hot deals you could point me to? Thanks!

 

[Megatomic]

Is your chip s478 or s775?

 

[imported_markj]

Originally posted by: Megatomic
Is your chip s478 or s775?

Socket 478 (sorry, I thought all the 'E' models were 478.)

 

[Megatomic]

I like the Abit IC7-G MaxII, it usually goes for about $135 at NewEgg. What's your price range?

 

[imported_markj]

Thanks--that one certainly has all the features I'm looking for. It would be at or near the top of my price range, and while I'd prefer to spend a bit less, I would be comfortable paying that for a good board (I had an Asus that crapped out after two years, and tried replacing that with an ECS which was just plain junk... which is why I'm shopping again now.)

I notice the IC7-G has the 875 chipset... I think I recall reading that the 865 was nearly as good but a much better value. Does dual-channel require the 875, or can I use an 865 chipset?

Thanks!

 

[ShadowBlade]

i reccomend an A64 board with an A64 on it

 

[imported_markj]

Thanks... I would, but I already have the P4, and don't want to invest in another cpu.