Joined on 10/17/06
Get this one!
Pros: While there is no such thing as real "future proofing" this one comes very close. USB 3.0 and 6.0GB/s SATA are amazing and I can't wait to use them. Plenty of USB 2.0 ports, fast RAM speeds, the labels on it are clear and easy to read, making it great for a first build. The BIOS is also simple to use and way too easy to overclock! Excellent quality audio, no need for a sound card for most applications with this motherboard. Also, sexy in blue!
Cons: The metal plate for the case is flimsy. Not free.
Overall Review: For my first build this was the right choice. It was easy to set up and has plenty of space for the large video cards. Highly recommended. USB 3.0!!!
Worth Every Penny
Pros: Yes, it really improves accuracy. For graphics work, including the most tedious pixel-by-pixel projects, it's fantastic. For anyone who has never tried a gaming pad and is still using some random standard mouse pad, this will really make you say 'wow.'
Cons: Not AS good as the Razer hard gaming pads, but that's really just personal preference.
Overall Review: Do not underestimate the size/dimensions. Make sure you have the space for it.
Big, Beautiful, but also Big
Pros: EXCELLENT cooling power, dropped my I-7 (mild OC @ 3ghz) down about 15 degrees from an older Thermaltake Spin-Q. Actually not that difficult to mount, and once it's mounted it is solid. (Much better than the plastic pins other coolers have). Under heavy load it doesn't climb much higher than 40C with current specs.
Cons: None of these cons are enough to drop the rating more than one egg as they can be avoided. It is seriously big. I am not able to use the 2nd fan due to the proximity to the RAM. It's either 2 fans and 3 DIMMS or 1 fan and 4 DIMMS. My case is big, but a super tower is really the only way to fly to fit this thing. It's a tad loud, even with one fan. It has an attached manual speed controlling knob..mine is at 100%. It's heavy. The screw-mount system is needed to keep it in place...not sure how much stress it really puts on the MoBo...
Overall Review: For a new build this is an excellent choice. You can pair it with a big MoBo and case so everything fits nicely. For a replacement, it is a hassle somewhat. I had to remove everything from the MoBo and remove it to attach the bottom mounting bracket, plus my case needed some -- modification. I also removed some of the decorative plastic from the top for it to fit. Overall: Worth every dollar if you are ready for it.
A Good Mac?
Pros: Fast, smooth, easy to set up and import files/settings from an older mac. Great display, great camera (not that I actually need a web cam). Powerful, handles Photoshop CS5 like a champ.
Cons: Uses mini-HDMI output for second monitor....not much of a con, more of an inconvenience. Includes the magic mouse....too strange for regular use.
Overall Review: Don't tell my dad....I LIKE this Mac.
Ready for mild OC
Pros: This is definitely better than the stock Intel cooler.
Cons: Loud, kinda tricky to install.
Overall Review: Works great on my OCd I-7
Plenty of Power
Pros: This PS has all the power a solid build needs. Easy to install, huge cooling fan, sexy LEDs. Great Price.
Cons: Expensive to operate......but that's what you get with high-wattage power supplies.
Overall Review: Intel I-7 860 OC'd to 2.93 4 GB G-Skill PC12800 Gigabyte P55 Nvidia GT-250 WD Caviar 750GB RAIDMAX SMILODON ATX-612WEB LG 42" HDTV for a monitor