Mesh, I was referring to the asus board, not the gigabyte board re the ram not fitting.
This is the one I got:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813131705 

(and, I don't think it's the mobo's 'fault'. More, the ram is just getting big and gaudy.)


Yea, The video card seems fine. I did run into a problem with the first video card I bought in that it also was too big. As my audio card (PCIe)  would't fit next to it. 

Returning briefly to the "SSD for OS" question, I don't, with all due respect, think "I do / don't recommend them" is particularly useful advice either way. A good SSD for OS is worthwhile if 1/ fast boot and 2/ fast program launch are valuable to you. If you're not bothered about those things, then it's less worthwhile. As already noted, it makes no difference to audio performance.

I'm using the P8Z68-V Pro board, which is a generation older than the one I recommended... already. <sigh> 

I'm using Kingston HyperX Genesis memory modules, which are not available in a 16GB (2 x 8) kit yet. I'm also using the Noctua NH-14 cooler in a low profile configuration which leaves about 1/4 inch of leeway above the memory sticks.

Aside my issue with the "Marvell" controller which I don't use, it's been solid. My DPC latency is excellent, although I'm not sure how much of a role the mobo plays in that equation.

"Mesh"
From the sheer size of it, during installation, did you have any issues with the Noctua NH-14 cooler getting in the way of the RAM sticks or anything else?

To be more precise, the Noctua model I purchased was the NH-C14, which allowed me to use only 1 fan (140mm) in a low profile configuration because my DAW case is a 3u rackmount. It took me maybe 20 minutes to install. The instructions were accurate and readable IYKWIM. The quality of this cooler is excellent and it looks great also (little work of art). Since I'm using only 1 fan, that leaves me with a spare (also a 140mm). You can set it up to run in quiet mode (900 rpm) and it is quiet. The CPU temps hovers around the 25 to 40 C under heavy loads. Basically, I don't worry about CPU and mobo temps. anymore.

Like I mentioned previously, the clearance above the memory sticks is about 1/4 inch and the same above the fan and case. I did make sure that it would fit before my purchase. As a bonus, it also covers the chipset and most of the memory sticks. It was made to measure for me. 

"Mesh"
Also, did you have to update anything in the BIOS before/after installing the OS?

No. I purchased my board soon after it's initial release. But, I've updated it 3 times since. No problems at all doing so, but I always make a backup of the previous BIOS in case something goes wrong so I can revert back to a known working BIOS... just in case.

For the iGPU, I update through Intel and not Asus, as their graphic drivers are bloated. I've done this twice now without issues.

I've also done a minimal installation of the Asus AI Suite (module that includes the temperature monitor and BIOS update utility). They are always disabled, until I need to either check the temp. or update the BIOS. It's only 3 services to enable/disable. To update the BIOS, I download the new BIOS file from Asus, and update from this file, after making a backup from the same utility. When done, I simply disable all 3 services until the next time I need it. Works very well for me.

You were adage afresh that you did not advertise abounding of them, and even went as far as mentionning that admitting a acceptable margin, you still did not acclaim them. How can you abnegate that they are the best bar none. I accustomed absolutely a while ago that the alone check to new bearing SSDs was the cost. For those who can allow them, there's annihilation like it, behindhand of their role. And abnormally in the ambience of today's automated drives prices, they accomplish for an accomplished OS drive.

congalocke


Pricing @ NewEgg for Crucial sticks were adjusted last time I went by... Dig it! http://www.newegg.com/Pro...x?Item=N82E16820148466

I get the error "bad request" when clicking this link

I just checked the link and it worked as of right now... "$249.99" for 2X8GB at Newegg.com!

You bet G;-)

congalocke


OK.. I noticed that Newegg provides an option to purchase a recommended MOBO with RAM that would bring the cost down but maybe the cheaper RAM brings down piece of mind as well? http://www.newegg.com/Pro...?ItemList=Combo.780492 Regards conga

Looks like it's for a laptop bud

 This is a snippet of what I think I've decided on so far...not shown is a Logisys 550 watt ATX SLI and X-fire ready (whatever that means) UPS
The following is a link to the website that lets one select different components in case someone has other suggestions (sorry the image links don't work for me) http://www.googlebb.magicmicro.com/smoreinfo.asp?iid=4399
I have a couple of weeks before I buy anything so feel free to let me know if I'm threadjacking here and I'll start my own.
Thanks,
Randy

They are posting RAM that would work with the MOBO (DDR3) or are they just offering to sell RAM that may have nothing to do with the MOBO that goes into a tower?


I don't know bud but I'm guessing it's an error

Here is my new baby:

(MoBo) EVGA SR-2 270WS-W555-A2 HTPX
(Chips) 2x i7 980
(Hard drive) 6x Seagate ST500DM002
(Ram) 32Gb

I already have the video card (running 3 monitors) the case etc.

For some reason I never got an "instant email notification" for this even though I'm subscribed....anyway
I checked out that "magicmicro" site and did a comparison on the prices for the same hardware at Newegg......I saved a few hundred $$ at Newegg. You should also do a comparison and see if you get similar results. 
So does this mean you got everything? If so, can you update your signature so I can see what you decided on...and are you happy with your purchase (I'll finally be buying mine within a week)?