Keep using the 1st gen, no reason to pay more just for the box :)

This is the OC competition by DFI own

Ultra-D/SLI-DR created the TCCD top limitation

EXPERT improved the PCI-E gaps, over 3.3V with non-segment, re-positioned DRAM slots, Winbond UTT become better but lost some compatibility with TCCD.

Venus inherit EXPERT all advantages and plus 100% aluminum capacitors, improved TCCD compatibility (a little bit weaker than Ultra-D)
Enhance 4DIMM OC ability dramatically and make 2GB OC become better.

Nowadays, 2GB is the mainstream. Venus¡¦s advantages are much bigger than weakness.

One more my own final test - 2GB HZ DDR610 3 4-4-8




Ultra-D honor is still there. Before AM2 coming, Venus carry on the honor.
Venus is still the most omni-bearing OC board.
As the high end strategy, special package, 100% aluminum and limited q¡¦ty
I hope DFI can have Venus non-aluminum version in lower price to make more user can own this K8 OC legend.

I'd say put a dual core chip and test the PWM circuit; see if it holds down the temperature.:)

my best 144...

Looks like a Rolex watch box:)

Still at 1T command rate?

Some ATX case using 120mm exhaust fan may have clearance problem using this board with the plug in video output; it stands too tall where the fan is. DFI still did not change the pain in the butt audio output connector location.....( the two blue short-out pins area) on the photo.

At $289, this board deserves FX60 price range processor; top end video card; $200 case etc, otherwise it would be like parking a Toyota in front of a multi-million dollar home. It just doesn't match.:)

Unless it's a Toyota Supra;)

The last year of the real Supra, 1993.

mhh nice car :D