Need advice regarding purchase of new Motherboard

[sybreed]

Hello.


I'm currently in this situation: I am going to buy a GTX 560Ti GPU. I have ATM. the Intel Core2, QUAD 2,33Ghz CPU.
To avoid bottleneck, I'm going to Overclock my CPU. I cannot do this atm. Since I'm using a 650i SLi mobo.
So I searched for a new Motherboard, and found this one: Gigabyte GA-EP45-UD3LR


Now my question

Is there a motherboard I can purchase that works better than the Gigabyte GA-EP45-UD3LR but cheaper - or slightly more expensive, but much better?

Better: I'm thinking OC wise - I'm aiming for 3Ghz +/- on the Quad 8200 2,33 Ghz. With COOLER MASTER HYPER 212 PLUS as aftermarket cooler.

Also, I'm currently using DDR2 800Mhz ram. Will I need to buy new ones, and if so.. Which?
I read RAM are affected by CPU OC. And as mine are DDR2 and 800mhz, it might be time for an upgrade in the RAM department also?

Help much appreciated!

 

[Indy-Go]

1. not yet, not until mar - april
2. not sure shop on new egg, tiger direct or ebay
2a. U will definitely need new ram. Research the Mobo spec for QVL list to see what ram is available for that mobo.

 

[sybreed]

Just to be clear:

Gigabyte GA-EP45-UD3LR Is an excellent option?

Any recommendations for new RAM?

 

[tecmo34]

Excellent Option... Is a stretch but is a good option for an upgrade.

RAM... It is not required, as the board will support DDR2 800, so your current set will work.

http://www.gigabyte.com/products/product-page.aspx?pid=3286#sp

 

[sybreed]

What do you mean by it's a stretch? :O

I'm also currently looking at this one: ASUS P5E Deluxe Ai any comments?

 

[tecmo34]

Meaning calling any LGA 775 motherboard "Excellant" is a stretch as they are EOL and don't compete with modern boards. It is still a good board but just not excellent by today's standards... IMO