Socket "A" Board - Which one?

[CFster]

Been out of the hardware game for a few months (an eternity). Looking to build a XP 2500+ "Barton" system and am wondering which board to buy. I have a GF4 card so don't need onboard video. The person who I'm building it for is an audiophile so I'm wary of onboard audio (probably go with something higher end, like a Sound Blaster with a break-out box). Some people have recommended the MSI K7N2 Delta-L (nForce2 Ultra 400) board, as the price is so low I don't care if it has onboard audio, I'll just disable it. However, I've always had ABIT boards, and they've been very good to me. I'm wary of this new nVidia chipset.

Anybody have any suggestions for a nice stable board that won't break the bank?

 

[Peter D]

heh, the nforce2's are the top boards right now, IMO. the abit's are VERY good. excellent audio (comperable to an audigy1) and have great overclocking headroom if thats what you're after. they're only about 120 bucks now, but you might be able to find one on the FS/FT forum..

 

[CFster]

Yeah, I wonder about the audio - how does onboard audio, or a PCI card with mini-phono plugs compare with a higher end unit with full size RCA jacks? Is there a difference in sound quality?

 

[CFster]

BTT