So I scrapped my original plan to build an LGA-1366 Core i7-920 based rig in favor of waiting until the Lynnfield chips arrive in a couple months. I noticed that a 4GB dual-channel kit of Curcial Ballistix DDR3 is a lot more affordable than the 6 GB triple-channel kit of the same type ($10 more than the base dual-channel kit vs. $50).
I know the Ballistix has a lower latency than the stock parts, but is this benefit going to be apparent to someone who doesn't plan on OCing any of the parts in the computer?
While we're on the topic of stock vs. OCing.... is it a waste of money to buy aftermarket fans/heatsinks? On my last build (Socket 939 Athlon 64) I went with an aftermarket Thermaltake cooler which worked fairly well, but since I didn't overclock, I almost feel like that was an extra $40 that might have had better usage elsewhere. What are peoples' recommendations on these?
I know the Ballistix has a lower latency than the stock parts, but is this benefit going to be apparent to someone who doesn't plan on OCing any of the parts in the computer?
While we're on the topic of stock vs. OCing.... is it a waste of money to buy aftermarket fans/heatsinks? On my last build (Socket 939 Athlon 64) I went with an aftermarket Thermaltake cooler which worked fairly well, but since I didn't overclock, I almost feel like that was an extra $40 that might have had better usage elsewhere. What are peoples' recommendations on these?