Which MoBo to choose?

[Katzhuu]

Hi,

I'm building a new rig (Can be seen HERE) and just about to order, but I still haven't decided on the MoBo.

Here is what I want:

1. It is a gaming computer
2. No specific need for OCing
3. No need for an SLI (would be a bonus though)

I have 2 choices at the moment:

1. Gigabyte DS3
2. Abit AB9Pro

Is there any real difference between those 2 besides Abit having 2 lans and eSata connector?

 

[rwpritchett]

The AB9 Pro has the ICH8R southbridge chipset that gives you a little better RAID options and different onboard audio. Here's a newegg link that sums up the difference between the two:

Motherboard Comparison

Both are good boards though. It just depends if the little differences sway you either way.

 

[Katzhuu]

Taking a step back on the MoBos here.

Looks like the Gigabyte GA-p965-DS3 takes ages to get in this northern periphery, so I am considering 2 other alternatives:

1. ABIT AB9Pro
2. ASUS P5B

I'd tend to go for the ASUS myself, but since I know about zilch about MoBos, I'd like some more confident opinions about it.

mpilchfamily above already mentioned he doesn't like the IDE location on ABIT board and atleast on that respect ASUS seems to beat ABIT and it costs only a few euroes more (practically same price).

 

[rwpritchett]

I personally have the P5B-Deluxe/WiFi and its great. I've seen a lot of complaints about the plain P5B though. Spend a little extra to get at least the P5B-E or a little more to get the P5B-Deluxe.

If cost is the factor, I would go with the AB9PRO over the plain, P5B.

Here's another comparison with some motherboards to consider:

P5B vs P5B-E vs P5B-Deluxe vs AB9PRO