X-bit labs

Surprises from ASRock 4Core1600P35-WiFi+: Good and Bad (page 8)

Category: Mainboards

by Doors4ever

[ 05/01/2008 | 08:13 PM ]

Conclusion

Although ASRock 4Core1600P35-WiFi+ mainboard does have a number of indisputable advantages, its drawbacks will hardly make it a product of choice for any experienced overclocking fans. However, it doesn’t mean that it is a bad board. As you know, most computer systems are purchased not for overclocking needs but to work for a more or less long time at the default speed. And if on day a casual overclocker discovers that his board can in fact do something, it will be a pleasing surprise.

However, the price of ASRock 4Core1600P35-WiFi+ mainboard keeps you thinking that maybe you should go for something else with a bit more advanced overclocking –friendly features. Of course, you will not find a mainboard with WiFi for $130, but this is not the only feature you look for in a mainboard. If WiFi were a free bonus, then why not, but if it comes instead of additional overclocking options, then maybe you should think twice…

Looks like ASRock foresaw our doubts and concerns and didn’t release just one model, but the whole lineup of solutions using the same PCB layout. We have already mentioned ASRock 4Core1600P35-WiFi (without the “+”): it is exactly the same but without the additional FirWire controller, i.e. costs less:

There is an even simpler model called ASRock 4Core1600Twins-P35D. This one is very different from the other two: no WiFi module (although the connector is still there), no FireWire, ALC888 codec instead of ALC890, ICH9 South Bridge instead of ICH9R, and only 4 Serial ATA ports:

And if we replace solid-state capacitors on ASRock 4Core1600Twins-P35D with regular electrolytic ones, and put a regular four-pin connector instead of the 8-pin ATX12V one, we will get an ASRock 4Core1600Twins-P35 (without the “D”):

So, each of you will always be able to find a suitable mainboard for your needs among ASRock solutions, if not for the features then at least for the price.