X58 motherboards spaced for cool SLI

[Boggins]

Has anyone any recommendations on a X58 motherboard that gives two full x16 for SLI, yet allows for spacing in between two dual slot graphics cards?

I currently have a Gigabyte X58A-UD3R, but running both cards side-by-side is a bit too hot for the first card.

Thanks.

[rjbarker]

Be prepared to spend some $$$ if you want x16 in top and 3rd slot.....or all 3 slots...

[draemn]

Or get an 8 slot case.... that may be cheaper than buying a mobo that puts the first PCIe slot in the 2nd slot of the mobo. Still, just look and you'll find them in the +$200 range. A lot of people buy the Rampage 3 for the above reason, but there are other boards that offer this.

[Boggins]

Well I've tried an MSI Big Bang Xpower, that's supposed to do what I'm looking for, but unfortunately it won't even run properly with two graphics cards installed.

[Slik]

From all that I have read,there is no performance loss by using the first and third slots you have on a regular x58 mobo. I have my SLI set up that way. No issues that I can see.

[Boggins]

Originally Posted by Slik

From all that I have read,there is no performance loss by using the first and third slots you have on a regular x58 mobo. I have my SLI set up that way. No issues that I can see.

The problem is that with double slot graphics card, the Gigabyte motherboard can only run them side by side, or have the second card sit in the absolute last slot. That wouldn't be too bad, but the problem with the last slot is that a large graphics card will not fully seat since all of the USB and case connection headers sit right beneath them. It's a fairly crappy slot layout.

[Soultribunal]

Board layout can be a bit of a detriment. Although I don't know that board personally, an EVGA SLI3 or similar board would be idea for you.

They Run 16X/8X/8X and personally speaking that is as good as it gets within a reasonable budget for a good X58 board.

ST

[enaberif]

I like the Evga FTW board.. Has a nice layout for SLI.

[grifter11]

If you want a Motherboard that has 2 full x16 pci-e lanes with a space between both cards. You'll have the get the Gigabyte G1 Assasin XL-ATX Mobo. But will need a HAF-X case or some simular for the mobo to fit.

[Boggins]

I have a HAF X so it will accommodate most motherboards. I'll check out some of these suggestions that you guys have given. Thanks!