The Dilemma!

[Acksaw]

Ok, so. Getting some new components, namely RAM, CPU, Gfx card and a motherboard.

The dilemma is the motherboard. I am stuck between the Asus P5K Deluxe and the Abit IP35. Both are similarly priced and have similar specs. Which is the best to go with? I am worried that if I get the P5K the sata ports will be blocked by my graphics card which will be either a BFG 8800GTS 320mb or 640mb (help choosing this too) and also RAM. I'm looking at the OCZ Reaper 1066MHZ but not sure if this is the best. I'm aiming for a budget of about 650. Help!

CPU will be q6600 btw.

Second thought is should I wait for Phenom/Penryn?

[StoX]

It's probably worth waiting, but that's depends on how patient you are. However, in the computing world it seems that the next hardware release is always just around the corner!!

I've seen a lot of opinion that Abit offer better after-sales support than Asus, and that there isn't any massive differences between the boards and perfromance. I know I'd like to see some head-to-head comparisons in terms of performance.

[masscrazy]

I know I'd like to see some head-to-head comparisons in terms of performance.

driverheaven.net/reviews/p35moboroundup/index.php

[Agent]

Forget the performance difference. Any differences are so small that they fall within the margin of error anyway.
Go on the more important things. After support, build quality, BIOS updates, features that you will use, ect...
For me, the only choice is the Abit, their support makes ASUS look like a laughing matter. Plus they do RMA's in the UK (usually well under a week to), with phone support if needed, and BIOS's are regular.

[Agent]

driverheaven.net/reviews/p35moboroundup/index.php

Thanks for the link, but that's a terrible round-up.
Doesn't go into hardly any of the technical sides of anything. For example, it lists the 'maximum' overclock, while failing to mention minimum voltages for each of these, what effect adjusting RAM timings had, what the 'real' stock FSB is, ect...shame

[Pob255]

Also like to add that currently the differnce between the 8800GTS 320mb and 640mb is just a couple of fps in more current games.
What the price differnce between the two cards?

[Mad-Max]

Well I would say Asus P5K Deluxe because I have one and I need two lan ports but both boards are about the same any way and I find it easy to OC on the P5K any way

[Acksaw]

Anyone have anymore thoughts?

[Mad-Max]

You could try asking in this below section ?

http://forums.hexus.net/forumdisplay.php?f=5