Tom's Hardware > Forum > Motherboards & Memory > General Motherboard > Can't decide on a motherboard

Can't decide on a motherboard

Forum Motherboards & Memory : General Motherboard - Can't decide on a motherboard

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Hello, all. I've signed up specifically to ask for help with my 1st build. I've pulled the trigger on all the parts except for one - the mobo. Here is whats on its way so far:

COOLER MASTER Centurion 590
AMD Phenmon 2 x3 720BE 2.8GHz
EVGA GTS 250 512MB
CORSAIR 4GB (2 x 2GB) 240-Pin DDR2 SDRAM DDR2 800
LG 22X DVD±R SATA DVD Burner
Antec BP550 Plus 550W PSU

I am trying to decide between two boards in particular:
ASRock A780GXE
GIGABYTE GA-MA780G-UD3H

But really, I'm open to anything in the sub $100 price range. I'm building this thing to last, but I have to draw the line somewhere, you know?

While I'm at it, would you guys be so kinda as to critque my build? I know its too late as the parts are already shipped, but I'd just like to hear some honest opinions. And if anyone is wondering why I went with the GTS 250 instead of a HD4850, it is because the GTS had what apparened to be a great combo deal with the PSU.


Message edited by napalmb on 04-09-2009 at 12:34:44 AM
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If it is between those to def get the gigabyte

Reply to copenhagenlc

Why though? The ASRock is $10 less and has better ratings on Newegg, so I'm just wondering what makes the gigabyte superior.

Reply to napalmb

GIGABYTE GA-MA790X-UD4P AM3/AM2+/AM2 $109.99
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Prod [...] 6813128387

Not the ASROCK

Your system looks good for the range it is in. You should be able to play most games in the upper ranges. If you installed a better HSF and got your CPU up around 3.4-3.5GHz play would be better.
Vista 64?


Message edited by knotknut on 04-09-2009 at 01:01:37 AM
Reply to knotknut

I think I am going to forego Vista and just jump straight into the Windos 7 beta + 32bit XP Pro just to be safe. Also, I'm wondering if that board isn't going to be overkill. From what I've seen, the P2 X3 720 should be able to do 3.2 GHz without expensive parts. I appreciate the suggestions though. Just have to ask questions before throwing down big money, you know?


Message edited by napalmb on 04-09-2009 at 01:22:35 AM
Reply to napalmb

GIGABYTE GA-MA790X is only $20.00 more than the 780G. Not overkill, the right board.
The 790x has the much better SB750 chip to complement the 720BE unlocked core.
There is a great possibabilty that your chips 4th core can be unlocked through Bios with the 790X board. No chance with the 780G.

Edit: possibility


Message edited by knotknut on 04-09-2009 at 01:41:49 AM
Reply to knotknut

I did it. I pulled the trigger on the GBYTE 790x, and my bank account is not happy about it...God help us all.

Related question: With this hardware configuration, what would be a moderate OC on the 720BE that would be safe to leave on for a couple days with stock cooling. If it matters, the Centurion 590 has 1 intake fan in the front.


Message edited by napalmb on 04-09-2009 at 02:25:25 AM
Reply to napalmb

To be on the safe side keep you idle temps under 40C and 70C under full load.
Down Load CoreTemp http://www.alcpu.com/CoreTemp/

When funds permit get a better HSF and a 120mm exaust fan for your case.

ie:
XIGMATEK HDT-S1283 120mm Rifle CPU Cooler
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Prod [...] 6835233003

Scythe S-FLEX SFF21E 120mm Case Fan
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Prod [...] 6835185005

No matter what you decide, at stock you will have a nice PC!

Reply to knotknut
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