Q6600 build advice

[wozzizname]

My socket 939 system is getting on a bit, so I'm tempted by the current offers here on the Q6600's. I've already got an ATI 3870 and am tempted to try another in crossfire sometime, so with this in mind what motherboard and RAM would you guys suggest. I'm planning on trying Vista 64 bit business edition (I can get it free as an i.t. student), so planning on going for 4Gb RAM.

Currently thinking of the Abit IX38 quad GT with OCZ 4GB (2x2GB) PC2-6400C4 800MHz Reaper HPC Enhanced Bandwidth Edition Dual Channel DDR2 (OCZ2RPR800C44GK), any other suggestions, maybe the Asus Maximus Formula mb instead ?

 

[semi-pro waster]

I'm generally not a huge fan of dual graphics card systems because you are multiplying the chance of problems and it quite often costs you more as well once you have factored in the cost of a capable motherboard and PSU.

In your case I'd be more tempted by a P35 based motherboard such as the Abit IP35 (technically does offer Crossfire but the slots are 16x and 4x) because it is relatively cheap and very solid plus a good overclocker that has been tested.

As for Ram I'd likely just get the OCZ PC 6400 4gb Gold Series. It is unlikely to make much difference to your overclocking potential but will to your bank balance. The system below saves you about £120 over your original choices which you can put towards a new single graphics card as/when needed.

Intel Core 2 Quad Pro Q6600 "Energy Efficient SLACR 95W Edition" 2.40GHz (1066FSB) - Retail £129.99
(£152.74) £129.99
(£152.74)
OCZ 4GB (2x2GB) PC2-6400C5 Dual Channel Vista Gold Series DDR2 (OCZ2G8004GK) £61.99
(£72.84) £61.99
(£72.84)
Abit IP35 (Socket 775) PCI-Express DDR2 Motherboard £69.99
(£82.24) £69.99
(£82.24)
Sub Total : £261.97
Shipping cost assumes delivery to UK Mainland with:
City Link Parcel Next Day (Delivered Mon-Fri)
(This can be changed during checkout) Shipping : £8.25
VAT is being charged at 17.5% VAT : £47.29
Total : £317.51