Overclocking the AT8 32X was very rewarding, and whilst it did not challenge the best boards we have tested in this area, the 306MHz HTT we were able to hit with our unlocked FX chip is going to be more than enough for the vast majority of users. CPU frequency can be adjusted up to 400MHz, the V-core voltage will go up to 1.9v, Northbridge voltage can be bumped up by 0.2V and the maximum you can pump through your DDR is a satisfying 3.2V. Whilst these might not be enough for those shooting for overclocking records, they are plenty for those of us who don’t like replacing out components every month.
The BIOS is very intuitive as we have come to expect from Abit, with all of the relevant overclocking options in the OC Guru section. This was a breath of fresh air after having to endure the maze like BIOS of the A8R32-MVP Deluxe used previously. Abit EQ is where you find all of the extremely useful fan RPM control options, which can be set to speed up and slow down at user-changeable temperature levels. Overall I would have to say this latest Abit BIOS is the best we have seen of any board so far. Only a built in memtest and BIOS flashing program would make significant improvements. For those who don’t like dabbling in the BIOS too much, almost all of the overclocking options available are also chanagble within windows using Abit’s excellent uGuru overclocking utility. You can also use this to create profiles so you can load up a quiet profile for desktop work and then load up an overclocked setting for gaming, all at the click of a mouse.
Conclusion
Overall the Abit AT8-32X has been an excellent board to work with, and the best ATi RD580 chipset board we have had the pleasure to test. The layout is generally very strong, performance was excellent and overclocking options would be sufficient for all but the pickiest of enthusiasts. Best of all our experience was rock solid. Not once did the board become unstable and when we pushed the overclocking too far, it bounced right back as soon as the system was reset, without any need for a CMOS reset. For users not quite ready to jump on the AM2 bandwaggon and looking for the best Crossfire enabled motherboard money can buy, look no further than the AT8 32X.
Click for an explanation of our awards.
Pros
- Excellent performance
- Generally excellent layout
- An array of overclocking options
- Exceptional level of control over fans - Very stable throughout testing - Elegant cooling method - Well priced - uGuru utility very useful
Cons
- Floppy connector positioning not ideal
- Though a good overclocker, not in the same league as DFI for voltage options.
