Features , Layout & Package
The X48 is basically identical to the X38 DQ6, The same observations apply:-
1) The copper heatpipes and mounting provide a benchmark that other manufacturers should follow.
2) Board layout is very good the only issues are relatively minor :-
2-a) Reaching the Clear
Cmos jumper if using Crossfire it may be fiddly as it’s between both graphics slots which are quiet close together.
Clr_Cmos. It would also be nice if Gigabyte provided a jumper. The
Bios recovery is
probably the best around, but occasionally the jumper is needed
2-b) A minor point , really down to my own preference. I preferred the
PCI-E retention clips on the X38
2-c) Access to memory sockets is tight when graphics card is in
PCI-EX1 position, but the same complaint applies to virtually every P35/X38 motherboard. I normally
use
PCI-E 2 with a single graphics card, but did make sure my Dominator
Ram Cooler was insulated with self adhesive paper, before mounting it. In fairness the same
can be said of almost all X38/X48 boards.
2-d) I think on balance that there may now be over many connections on this board. Personally I see little or no need for an LPT header, I'd like to see the Front
Audio header moved to replace the LPT header, giving better cable management. The inclusion of a Com port header may also be overkill.
3) The included package is good with some excellent innovative features, the E-
Sata Connections are to my knowledge unique & extremely useful. It also means you plug
in the bare drive & save money on enclosures.
I gave the X38 10/10 for this section I'm being stingy and knocking off 0.5 , mainly because we have the same things repeated.
9.5/10
Overclocking & Bios
I've spent the majority of this review with F5A BTA
Performance has been little short of excellent. The board used together with
Wolfdale CPU and
CellShock PC3-14400 (DDR3-1800) 2GB DDR3 has been a joy.
Continuing on from the X38 the failed over clocking recovery feature is very smooth, I’ve only had to clear the
cmos once.
Bios features are the only real area of criticism, and are identical to the X38
For an Enthusiast motherboard these settings are a little limited.
See
CPU GTLREF for detail. Other than this I found the
bios options are a nice balance between tweakability and complexity. Gigabyte are unique in using the volage controls as an increment over stock voltage. As an example take DDR3 Voltage, the JDEC Default is 1.50v so to run memory at say 1.90v you need to dial in +0.40v This is all very well assuming you know what the stock voltages are
It would be simpler just to work with the absolute values in the first place. The default values are shown
Bios Template and
MotherBoard Intelligent Tweaker (MIT)
9/10
[b]Value:[b/b] As usual being an early adapter I ended up paying a higher price £200($400), looking around at current prices I see £175($350) which at the lower price makes this board a great buy. This is reinforced when comparing to the it's nearest rival the
P5E3 Premium/WiFi-AP @n which retails for £223($446)
10/10
Overall
Continuing with the solid features of it's predecessor, the board has a classy, understated quality. There are no major issues or compromises. As stated in the intro this board is the 3rd generation and has evolved into the greatest board so far.
Features......9.5
Overclocking..9.0
Value........10.0
Overall.......9.5
CPU GTLREF
Linear Mode
