Recommendation for novice overclocker

[mamemimo]

I'm looking at a new build around a Q6600, that I'm going to OC to 3.0 GHz. I have built computers before, but I've never overclocked anything. This is a pretty simple build, no RAID, just a single hard drive and a single optical drive (both SATA), but I thinking that I should get a motherboard with 2 PCIe x16, so Crossfire can be an option in the future (if I go ATI). Also, I'm looking at underclocking 2x2GB of DDR2-800 ram.

So what motherboards to you guys recommend for the above overclock? I was looking at the abit IP-35 Pro, but after reading about some of the heatsink issues I've become a little skittish. I'm really looking for a reliable/easy to setup board more than the greatest possible overclocker.

My budget for a motherboard is ~$150, but its flexible. However, I don't want to be buying more motherboard than I need, so cheaper is always better.

What do you guys think?

 

[Rike]

Welcome to the AT forums!

I set up an Abit IP-35 Pro/Q6600 @ 3.0 Ghz system and I have to say it is a very good board; so far one of the best I've ever owned. OCing is a snap, uGuru really works, even in Vista. I'd recommend it for any one who wants to OC except for maybe the ultra-uber OCer. I'd recommend reading the AT review of the board if you haven't yet.

For what you have in mind, the Abit IP-35 Pro should work wonderfully. :thumbsup:

Edit: No heat sink issues here.

 

[Comdrpopnfresh]

Asus:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/...x?Item=N82E16813131196

Gigabyte:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/...x?Item=N82E16813128059 (<100, good reviews, as long as you don't need firewire)
http://www.newegg.com/Product/...x?Item=N82E16813128050

 

[mamemimo]

Thanks guys. Actually the Anandtech review is one of the things that got me worried about the IP-35 Pro. It talks about the heatsink coming off (the found a mod on google) and issues with aftermarket heatsinks (they need to be downward facing). I've also heard the Asus boards have issues - but they may have been resolved by now.

 

[joseps75]

I am currently running Quad Q6600 in a asus P5K-E MOBO, HeatsinkFan=Zalman CNPS9700LED, 2GB DDR2 CORSAIR, OC=3.0GHz, RUNNING 90% CPU TIME ON Rosetta@home projects. Core temps#0=62C, #1=61C, #2=58C & #3=60C and RM Temp=22C. I am happy with it. I have 4 boxes running distributive computing 14 hrs/day on medical research volunteer crunching. OS= Vista Ultimate. I have no problem.

 

[Old Hippie]

Actually the Anandtech review is one of the things that got me worried about the IP-35 Pro. It talks about the heatsink coming off (the found a mod on google)

Abit must have listened to the bitching. I have the newer revision, and they have changed to thermal pads in some of the troublesome contact areas, and "straightened" their act on the heat pipe itself.
I had already purchased nylon hardware for the remount and did the mod anyway. Very easy!

Good Luck!