Quote Originally Posted by GoldenTiger View Post
I did minimize the variables pretty well, other than it being "real-world" style benching with FRAPS running:

If it wasn't clear in the post (again, it's not meant to be a comprehensive review )
We will be the judge of that, thanks

Catalyst AI = standard, nVidia equivalent enabled (Quality for texture filtering)
Wrong. ATi CCC has a setting for Texture Quality just like nvidia. Nvidia defaults theirs to Normal, ATi to High Quality. Catalyst AI is for enabling/disabling optimizations and enhancements in the driver and for crossfire support. Typical mistake made by reviewers when comparing ATi to Nvidia.

AA was equal on each test, as was AF, and transparency MSAA enabled for nV (adaptive for ATI, as that is the equivalent)
ATi has two settings for adaptive AA, standard and high quality. Another problem because you are not familiar with the settings.

The ATI tests were off a clean Windows 7 install, while the nVidia tests were after removing the 5870 and uninstalling its drivers, then putting in the GTX 480 later (a 9800GT was used in the meantime), so no clean build for that part.
Another problem. Games were tested while the OS was in different states, and ATI tested with two different drivers where as nvidia tested with one.

Thanks for the information though, I know you are eager to share information but always expect criticism because our standards are very high.

I didn't expect to cause such a ruckus with my tests... but I'm sure as others receive their cards they'll see similar results . I was just giving a few quick #'s and impressions, mainly... and I was quite surprised at the performance. I'm now running 730core/1460shader/3520mem stable, as well.
No ruckus caused here, only information sharing.