Epox 8K9A2+ vs. 8RDA+

Jako obširen test, ki se ga splača prebrati.


Conclusion

It's obvious that these two motherboards (particularly the 8RDA+) are new from the level of attention they are garnering from EPoX. From the time that we received the motherboards until today, we have seen both boards evolve through software updates. The 8RDA+ has been showered with BIOS updates while the 8K9A2+ has received several notable (though numbered) BIOS updates.
nVidia recently released a new Unified Driver Package to support the nForce2, while VIA released their Hyperion driver set for the KT400. In all, we've seen over five major updates made to improve performance from EPoX and the major chipset manufacturers.
As a direct result, we've scrapped about three complete sets of data so as to replace them with a more current, applicable set. When we began testing, we had VIA's 4-In-1 4.43 drivers installed on the 8K9A2+ test system. Soon thereafter, we were provided with the 4.40 AGP "Performance" driver: it was time to test again. Just this past week, we got word that the Hyperion (replacement to the 4-In-1s) had been released. We settled on the Hyperion drivers and completed testing vowing not to go back to the start again.
Originally, the 8RDA+ was exerting a lead on the 8K9A2+ that superceded what you have seen here today. The Hyperion drivers really have done wonders for the 8K9A2+, allowing it to reach respectable performance in comparison to the 8RDA+. Most of us acknowledge nVidia's wizardry in driver tweaking. They always seem to know how to squeeze more performance out of their products. With Hyperion, VIA has demonstrated that they too are masters of software engineering.
Masters or not, the fact still remains that VIA's KT400 lingers behind the nForce2 in performance. Even if VIA is able to pull off another "Hyperionesque" driver update in the near future, nVidia still has the potential to do the same on their end. Take my word for it: if VIA makes a move, nVidia will follow suit soon thereafter.
As long as nVidia remains committed to updating drivers/tweaking performance for the nForce2, chances are very likely that it will continue to outperform competing KT400 offerings.
For now, it is safe to say that nVidia has taken the crown of AMD chipset leader from VIA. I do not foresee any KT400 motherboard beating out an equivalent nForce2 offering in the near future. Until VIA releases its KT400A early next year, I don't realistically believe the performance title in the AMD-based sector will even "maybe" change hands.
Being the motherboard bearing what is arguably the best chipset today, the 8RDA+ has more than proved itself worthy through the barrage of testing. With its numerous overclocking options, rock-solid stability, future Barton CPU support, high-end onboard audio, user-friendly layout and excellent complementary package, we are proud to present EPoX's 8RDA+ with our Stamp of Approval. I've picked up one of these boards for myself; I'd highly suggest you do the same if you're looking to get the most out of your new Athlon XP.