Hi guys, I've also been making similar decisions recently. Stability and quietness are the two main features I look for, followed by a good performance/dollar ratio. I opted for the Epox EP-9HEAI. The reason I chose this board is because 1) it uses the PCI express interface while still maintaining 3 standard PCI slots, 2) the VIA northbridge chipset doesn't require a fan, and 3) the board has an integrated coaxial spdif output (harder to find that I originally thought). (and who knew optional spdif brackets were so hard to come by?!!) I would have looked closer at the nForce4 chipset, but all the boards I have seen use a fan on the northbridge heatsink. I've learned from experience how easily annoying these little fans can become.
I also was quite interested in the ULi 1695 offering but grew tired of waiting while only seeing one motherboard available...combined with the fact that it caters more toward an AGP/PCI express hybrid solution with lackluster features. I wanted to see a ULi board dedicated purely to PCI express along with all the bells and whistles (including SPDIF coax/optical).
I never find the need to overclock because I am more interested in keeping my case cool and quiet over minor performance increases.
Here's a link to the Epox product:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16813123252
To keep my case cool and quiet, I use a Zalman 7700 (120mm fan) HSF combo for my CPU and a Seasonic S-12 500W PSU (also with a 120mm fan). I've found that these are the only two fans I need for sufficient air flow.
And my temps still remain in the low 40's during normal operation even though I keep my computer on 24/7.
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