i7 920 RAM Upgrade

[msx-tr]

Hey there, recently upgraded a few things on my old i7 920 build (namely GPU to GTX 770 SC), and now realizing my RAM is falling short. I currently have 3x2GB OCZ Platinum 1866 (running at 1600, wasn't stable at the 1867 setting) running on an EVGA X58 MB. CPU is currently running stock speed, though I do plan to OC it to a near 4ghz mark shortly.

I've googled relentlessly as to whether to go with dual or triple channel, which turned up a wash. So now just wondering if anyone has any current advice as for what will work best with my system. I'm looking at either a 12 or 16GB setup (not sure 8GB will be enough of an improvement). Additionally, will I be able to reach the rated 1866 speeds after OC'ing my CPU, or should I save a few bucks and drop down to 1600?

As far as work load, my browser hogs a ton of memory (and just read that a fresh install will help, also planned for the near future). Primary objective is gaming (WoW, ESO, D3, whatever the 770 will run maxed).

Trying to keep the budget around ~$150 if possible. Any insight or recommendations are hugely appreciated!

 

[Tradesman1]

Are you OCing the 920 or have any plans to?Would look at 3x4GB or 4x4GB of 1600/9 anyway, if OCing maybe 1866/9 in 12 or 16GB...might look at GSkill's Snipers or Ripjaws

 

[msx-tr]

Yes, but not anything extreme. Hoping to get 3.9-4 MHz out of it without drawing too much heat.

What exactly is the difference between those two sets?

 

[Tradesman1]

The 1866 provides more bandwidth and thus is faster, much better in muti-tasking, video, imaging, etc and even in gaming can add a few FPS, plus today many 1866 sets sell at a comparable price to 1600 or less...Also can be better if you upgrade mobo and/or CPU

 

[msx-tr]

I get that 1866 is faster which is always better, just wanna make sure I can utilize it with my current CPU / MB.

Also wondering what value a 4x4GB kit will have for the future. Plan to upgrade my processor likely with Broadwell release or shortly thereafter. Just don't wanna blow $200 on RAM that'll be useless with minimal saleable value. :s

 

[Tradesman1]

If you think 16GB will be sufficient in the future when you upgrade, then you'll be fine, on my builds 1866 is basically the entry level, haven't used 1600 in I don't remember how long, and even the basic Haswell ( and will be same w/ Broadwell) CPUs can run 1866