Quick Review - Asus P5N7A-VM uATX HTPC Mobo

[ST]

I know there's a lot of interest in this board for HTPC enthusiasts (who typically are SPCR folks as well):

Pros:

+ Flawless 24p 108p Blu Ray playback with superb image quality
+ 8 Channel LPCM support for DTS-HD DD-HD 7.1 support through HDMI
+ Undervolting and underclocking works great to enable CPU voltage down to .85V!
+ Speedfan control support for fans (CHA/CPU) as well as GPU temps (ensure you use v4.36)
+ Backwards HA compatibility with older BD players (like PDVD 7.3) so you dont have to spend more $$$$ on SW
+ Easy GPU overclock which can readily turn 9300 to 9400 speeds (provided you have sufficient cooling for MCP7A)

Cons:
- MCP7A chipset requires active cooling, otherwise it may cause system lockup
- Limited overclocking options in the BIOS and very low ceiling on FSB bus (~375)
- High VDroop between idle and full CPU usage of ~250mV or higher
- Mediocre DVD playback (slight stuttering and only okay picture quality)
- Subpar on board RAID performance (compared to Intel's ICH10R) and overly complex setup
- MCP7A chipset too new so HW query programs like CPU-Z are inaccurate and cause issues (use nVidia System Tools instead)

Summary: This is NOT an overclocking board by any means with its limited capabilities. However, as an HTPC platform, it has no equal and puts Intels G45 chipset to shame. For silent enthusiasts, it offers complete undervolting package as well as decent mem:fsb dividers to keep performance up while underclocking as well as complete Speedfan control. Just be wary to get some airflow to the MCP7A chipset, as it can and will get quite hot!

[mLy!]

I am interested in this board, but it is very expensive.
Maybe its just better to get a p35 board with a ati 4670?

[thejamppa]

P35 + HD 4670 is pretty much fool proof combination. P35 is one of the best chipset's I've used. very reliable, more than enough features and decent power draw.