RAM recommendation for Abit KN8Ultra & Opt'y 144

Epsil0n00

Golden Member
Aug 29, 2001
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Hey guys,
So I finally made a purchase decision yesterday when Monarch's Opteron 144 prices dropped again. I purcahsed an Abit KN8 Ultra and an Opteron 144.

What RAM would you recommend pairing with this setup? I ultimately want to have 2GB (2x1GB DIMMS running in DC). Though, I might only purchase 1 x 1GB module at the moment... I plan on OC'ing the Opty a little bit... maybe to like 2.4 or 2.5GHz at the most. Though, it sounds like CL timings of the RAM are less important since AMD is using the on-die memory controller. I would like good quality RAM, of course, but I don't think it needs to be the fastest (highest priced) RAM on the market... right? I assume I should stick with PC3200... right?

Thanks for your consideration and advice, oh wise AT members!
Eps.
 

Ike0069

Diamond Member
Apr 28, 2003
4,276
2
76
I suggest Corsair VS RAM. Cheap but very reliable and stable. When OC'ing just use a divider.
 

Epsil0n00

Golden Member
Aug 29, 2001
1,187
0
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After further research I plan on purchasing one of the following options:

1. G.Skill Value 2GB CL3-4-4-8 (2.5-2.7V) $148
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16820231039

2. Corsair VS 2GB (2.3-2.7V) $165
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16820145579
Does anyone know the timings for this RAM?

3. G.Skill 2GB CL2.5-3-3-6 (2.6-2.75v) $169
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16820231047
The main difference between this set and the G.Skill value set is the tighter timings and the red heatsinks... and the lifetime warranty. Are these three factors worth the extra $21?
Also, what difference does the voltage range make... how will this effect the ability to OC this RAM?

Again, these will be used in an Abit KN8-Ultra with an Operon 144. I plan on OCing the Opteron to like 2.4-2.5 GHz... which set would work best with these goals in mind?

Thanks!
Epsil0n
 

Epsil0n00

Golden Member
Aug 29, 2001
1,187
0
76
Originally posted by: Broly
I'd say go OCZ Gold, Can't go wrong with OCZ my man

I appreciate the feedback... unfortunately my budget is around $170. The OCZ Gold is out of my price range... I am open to other options under $170 though.

Thanks!
 

Epsil0n00

Golden Member
Aug 29, 2001
1,187
0
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Originally posted by: Broly
Hmm. I see
The Gold's should go for that much.
http://www.memoryexpress.com/index.php?...tDetail.php&DisplayProductID=7143&SID=

Maybe 20 dollars more, well worth it.

The deal you linked is $50 over $170... not $20... and that's after MIR. I really can't go more than $10 or so over $170 and even then I would need a good reason to do so. My understanding is that RAM timings weren't all that important for OCing AMD CPUs. Is this correct?

Thanks!
Eps./
 

Starbuck1975

Lifer
Jan 6, 2005
14,698
1,909
126
I am working on a component list myself, and every time I start creeping towards the high end RAM, most recommend going with ValueRam...it seems the Corsair ValueSelection Dual Channel kit is a winner across the board.