Need some advice for a build.

[SpookyDonkey]

It has been a while since I was in the market for a home built computer so forgive me for any ignorance I may display. Although I have done a fair amount of research prior to my decision I just want to double check myself with this fine community.

Going with a 2500k for the CPU, this seems like a no brainer. The only thing stopping me from pulling the trigger on this build is the motherboard. I want to purchase the ASROCK P67 extreme4 gen3 but it appears that their customer service is horrid. And it seems to me that the MOBO is usually the culprit for an unsuccessful new build.

Anyone want to convince me in buying a different motherboard?
My requirements:
No more than $200.
2 way SLI capable.
Decent OC ability, stable around 4.5GHz.
Can be Z68 but capabilities don't really concern me just as long as the board is stable/no defects/bug free.
PCIE 3.0 is a plus but not required.

Any recommendations on RAM to pair up would help also. Thanks for your time

 

[T_Yamamoto]

ASRock is always highly recommended on this forum

Look for RAM compatibility on the Mobo maker's webpage

 

[mfenn]

I agree that you shouldn't get an Extreme4, but not for the reasons that you mentioned. I'd get an Extreme3 instead because it meets all of your requirements (even though "upgrading to SLI" and PCIe 3.0 are useless) and costs $115 AR.

Never had a problem with ASRock technical support. No, they will not hold your hand through building a PC, but they will exchange a dead board no problem.

 

[SpookyDonkey]

Interesting. I'll take your word on the customer support. That eases me a lil bit with the brand. I think the prices and the extreme3/4/6 whatever the hell versions are throwing my decision off.

 

[mfenn]

No problem, it all depends on what your expectations are. I think that the Extreme3 is a killer value at $115 AR.