Mushkin Ascent 2x2GB PC3-12800 DDR3 Kit Review

Conclusion:

It is that time again, time to sum up what can only be called a very exciting review. Keep in mind, this is coming from a guy who pretty much eats, breathes and sleeps memory; so for it to be considered exciting is definitely saying something. The second 2x2GB kit of DDR3 has been put through its paces here at HWC and unlike the first, this Mushkin Ascent memory thoroughly impressed. In all fairness, this is mostly due to the change in venue and the fact that the 790i chipset loves this memory. Clearly the overclocking backs this claim up because getting this kit so close to DDR3-2000 stable is something special in itself.

The other impressive aspect of these modules is the use of the new Ascent eVCI heat sinks that make this memory a really special kit. Mushkin has definitely raised the bar with the introduction of these heat sinks and we are certainly going to see more impressive modules churned out of the big M sporting these beefy and technologically advanced heat sinks. There are already PC3-16000 kits in the works as we speak with a bit of a twist to them but we'll save that surprise for later. Honestly though, it is hard to pick anything out from this kit that shows up as a bogey on the score card. Perhaps the price if we really had to get into it but at this point in time, Mushkin has managed to position this kit nicely staying below $400 making it competitive with all other PC3-12800 options out there.

In fact, these modules impressed us so much that we don't even mind the fact that we weren't able to disassemble them in order to get a better look at the heat sinks. A superior thermal adhesive is clearly being used which really is the icing on the cake. Performance at stock is good, overclocking headroom on our kit was great, versatility in timing sets is impressive, and the heat sinks that make these modules feel like a dumbbell in your hand put it over the top.

One last item we wanted to touch on was the Mushkin support, particularly Greg from the Mushkin forums who also spends time in some of the enthusiast forums around the internet. This man single handedly helps dozens of end users on a daily basis and does so in such a fashion that it is simply a treat to watch him work. Without question, the Mushkin Ascent series is climbing its way to the top, especially with reference 790i motherboards and backed by a dedicated support staff ready to help anywhere they can find you. All it takes is a quick trip to the EVGA 790i forums and you will see what we mean. If you are in the market for a solid 2x2GB kit of memory, it is time to put the Mushkin Ascent 2x2GB PC3-12800 7-7-6 modules right near the top of the list.

Pros:

• Tight timings at stock and XMP profiles that are very well setup
• Plenty of overclocking headroom from our sample tested
• Versatile being able to run at CL6, CL7, & CL8 with ease
• eVCI heat sinks that push the envelope in memory cooling
• Top notch accessible support from staff that know what they are doing

Cons:

• 2x2GB kits of good DDR3 still fetch a hefty price tag
• These modules look so good side by side in a motherboard, you will want two kits

We like to hear feedback here at Hardware Canucks so feel free to bring up any questions or comments in the Discussion thread for Mushkin Ascent 2x2GB DDR3 PC3-12800 Review