the older AW8D mobo don't surpport core 2 duo processor,but it's said that the new-made AW8D can surpport,
also you can consider AW9D ,they are basically the same
I was under the same impression and had the same exact problem. I got an AW8D and could not post with a core2. Called ABIT and they told me no support. I don’t get it. Even if it requires a bios update. You would still need to have a compatible non core2 lga775 processor to apply the bios update that does not exit anyway. I decided to get and AB9 965P instead which does not support crossfire.
Also the AW9d cost alot more and has less features, so its not a good suggestion for someone trying to get the best for the $$. Not to mention the MAX version which even cost more.