Memory choices for Sandy Bridge

[computerpro3]

So far this is how my new build looks

Intel 2600K that can do 5.25ghz on air @ 1.45v (bought it used here)
Asus Maximus IV Extreme P67
2x Radeon Hd 6950's flashed to 6970's
250GB SSD
Corsair AX850 PSU

The last major component is memory. I used to be really into overclocking back in the 9700 Pro, 2.4C days (I had a modified Chilly1 single stage unit and was running the GPU vmodded on water with some NICE Mushkin BH-5 @ 3.8v...ahh memories) but I haven't gotten a chance to play with Sandy Bridge that much. I understand much has changed, even from the i5 platform (which I've messed around with a bit). I'm looking forward to getting back into it.

The goal of the system is to be a extremely fast everyday computer - used primarily for video encoding and gaming. I also planning on doing some occasional benches for fun.

Frankly, what memory should I get? I don't want it to limit my CPU overclock in any way. Will 16GB of this suffice?

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...-428-_-Product

Would it be better to go with 8GB of faster memory? How do latencies play into Sandy Bridge? I don't "need" 16GB, it would just be cool to have with how cheap things are now.

Quite frankly, what's the best 8GB kit for Sandy Bridge?

Thanks in advance.

[alitayyab]

Memory speed does not affect CPU over clocks, both are now unlinked. You can run your memory frequency independent of processor frequency.

Read the following article for info regarding impact of memory speed on performance:
http://techreport.com/articles.x/20377

[st0ned]

Best kit for SB, for 8Gb I would recomend any kit that can do CL9 2133 since there ain't nothing better around. For 4Gb ( much more performance ) I would go for a high bined PSC , gskill Cl6 2000 are hard to find but will do 2133 CL7



Btw I would like to see some stability tests for 5250Mhz with only 1.425v if your CPU really does that should be the best I ever seen...

[computerpro3]

Best kit for SB, for 8Gb I would recomend any kit that can do CL9 2133 since there ain't nothing better around. For 4Gb ( much more performance ) I would go for a high bined PSC , gskill Cl6 2000 are hard to find but will do 2133 CL7



Btw I would like to see some stability tests for 5250Mhz with only 1.425v if your CPU really does that should be the best I ever seen...

At this point I'm taking the word of the guy I bought it from on here until I can find a freaking Maximus Extreme in stock. I just checked my PM and I mispoke on voltage - it's a bit higher. This is what he claims was Superpi 32m stable on normal air:

5287 at 1.45v probably could lower the voltage

I'm hoping it wont take that much more to get it prime stable, but who knows. I'll be using an Antec Kuhler temporarily until I can get a proper WC loop together.

So for the memory, if 4GB gives much more performance, would it be better to grab 2 CL6 2000mhz 4GB kits for 8GB total? Or will sandy bridge not like 4 slots being filled for overclocking?

[Leeghoofd]

I'm loving the 4gb Gskill Flare kit for AMD on the SB platform ( 2133Mhz CL6 at 1.675Vdimm ) or the RipjawsX I reviewed, the 17000CL9 kit for benching

If they will do the same clocks with all slots filled is another thing...

For ya daily needs 8-16Gb 1600CL8 is more than fast enough... ( tested some different speed/timing configurations here )