680 versus 695

[mhw100]

I'm attempting to design a high end machine for a specific application that requires a fast processor and fast memory. It is a 2D app running 8 monitors. Therefore I don't need a high end gaming GPU so SLI in and of itself isn't important although I would like to game a little with it. I think I need a mobo that can handle a big and stable OC and that allows for the fastest memory. I'm going with the Q6700 as the application will use the additional cores soon.

I'm just dangerous enough with computers to be able to build one but with all the conflicting information on the web I don't have the intelligence to decide which mobo would be the best. I assume its down to the 680 or 965?

Could one of you pros please help me out?

 

[APerfect10]

I think if you were going to go with an Intel board the 975X boards would be better than a 965. Basically you have two options. nV 680i or Intel D975XBX2. I have an D975XBX2 and am now wishing I would've went with the 680i because I think it probably OC's a little better and performance is slightly better.

For you I think the 680i is definitely the choice. If you are going to be running 8 monitors I'm not sure what video card(s) you will be using but the 680i has (3) PCIe x16 whereas the Intel board only has one PCIe x16 and two PCIe x8. For reference, most P965 chipset only have (1) x16 and (6) x1 which wont work for your setup.

There are two good articles comparing these boards in Tom's reviews. I highly recommend you read them and then make your decision.

Intel or Nvidia? nForce 680i Challenges Intel P965 and 975X

680i Motherboard Comparison Part 2

Edited: On further thought, if you went with the 975 chipset I think i'd get an Asus P5W DH Deluxe which has (2) PCIe x16

For the 680i chipset I think the Asus Striker Extreme is probably your best choice.

 

[mhw100]

Thank for the great leads and for your experience. That was a terrific heads up about the PCI limitations. I didn't dig that deep and that is why I'm dangerous.

I had read some info in the oc boards about the 975 but everyone seems to stick with the 965 for oc with the Asus Commando mobo. Don't know why?

I'll start reading these reviews which should help a lot.

Thanks again.