It's always exciting to have review a new chipset. It's even more exciting when said chipset takes advantage of such notables as higher FSB rates, extra PCI-e lanes for gaming physics, and enhanced memory technology. And though the Abit IN9 32X-MAX motherboard is a nice piece of hardware, I still can't help but feel that it's a little premature to market.
My digital instincts are telling me that the BIOS is mostly to blame. And maybe some of the MCH (Memory Controller Hub) Interface too.
I'm certain that once Abit tosses out a new and improved BIOS for the IN9 32X-MAX, that we will be seeing even higher bus speeds, far improved memory performance, and some really awesome figures.
Don't get me wrong, I'd love to own any 680i SLI based board, and I would definately consider the Abit IN9 32X-MAX the start to a true power house system. But the largest disappointment by far has to be the poor overclocking result when texted aginst older/weaker chipsets. Despite beginning to sound like a broken record, I still have to blame it on a very immature BIOS. Checking quickly; Abit still hasn't released a newer one.
The final question remains though; is this a board that a true enthusiast should consider for purchase? That answer is a resounding "Sure, maybe!".
Listing at around $330-$350 USD street price, it may seem a little expensive for the performance given (I would like just a little bit more bang for my buck). Again (broken record/skipping CD), it needs a new BIOS. The next revision on the Abit IN9 32X-MAX (will be under the same name, same look, just ver. 1.1 or something like that) may perform better. Pretty much every motherboard revision does.
Ultimately this is a decent board with loads of potential, in due time with due tweaking.
For a second opinion, check out the
Abit IN9 32X-Max WiFi review by our friends at OverClockersClub.
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