So I'm pretty sure my motherboard isn't working the way it should. If you want more details on that refer to my "Is one of my video cards busted?" thread.
Anyway, I'm not taking any chances on motherboard selection this time. I'm looking for a solid ASUS board. Right now, I've narrowed it down to these two:
ASUS P8Z77-V Pro
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813131819&Tpk=P8z77-v%20pro
ASUS Maximus IV Extreme (Rev. 3)
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813131700
I could always go with the P8Z77-V Deluxe too, but I really want a motherboard that has native PS2 support. I don't want to have to use an adapter for my Deck Legend keyboard. I really don't want to pay the price for the P8Z77-V Premium though.
The Pro is supposed to be a really nice motherboard that can overclock pretty well, and it would match my color scheme. It has a 12+4 phase power delivery design.
The Maximus, on the other hand, should be able to overclock even better despite using an older P67 chipset. I don't plan on using Virtue or SSD caching or any of those other features though. It has a 16+2 phase power delivery design.
Should I get one of those or should I just suck it up, buy a PS2 to USB adapter and get the P8Z77-V Deluxe, which has a 16+4 phase power design?
ASUS P8Z77-V Deluxe
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813131818&Tpk=P8Z77-V%20Deluxe
If you would prefer one board over another, tell me why. Also, please tell me if you have any suggestions for other boards.
Oh, and one more question about the Maximus: Would I be able to run my cards in SLI if I put them in the first and fifth slots? I have a sound card that I need to fit on the board, and I don't want the two cards sandwiched on top of each other.
*****Update*****
I've been looking at some reviews and it looks like the Maximus actually only has an 8+3 power design, so I think I'm going to end up going with the P8Z77-V Pro unless someone has any other suggestions.
*****Update*****
Actually now I'm confused because it looks like the Maximus might actually overclock better than the Pro. I guess better quality power phases are always better than more, but I'm still confused on what will overclock the best now. Anyone have any ideas?