Super Micro C2SBX+

Conclusion:

This is our first time reviewing a Super Micro motherboard at Phoronix, and to say the least we were left with a great impression. The Super Micro C2SBX+ uses the Intel X48 Chipset and with that comes an impressive set of features such as dual PCI Express 2.0 x16 and DDR3-1600/1333MHz memory. For those wanting to use this motherboard for server and workstation uses, the Intel PXH-V provides the PCI-X slots. Not only does this motherboard offer an impressive set of features, but also from our tests it's worked quite well on Linux. With Ubuntu 8.04 LTS using the Linux 2.6.24 kernel we had run into no compatibility issues and even LM_Sensors had fully functioned.

The Super Micro C2SBX+ had performed competitively against the ASUS P5E3 Premium and Gigabyte X48T-DQ6 with the Phoronix Test Suite in tasks ranging from file encryption to gaming to timed code compilation, but there was no clear winner between these three Bearlake-based motherboards.

At this time the Super Micro C2SBX+ is selling for about $250 USD, which isn't a bad deal at all considering its using Intel's flagship desktop Chipset and this motherboard's catering towards the workstation and server markets. We are very pleased with this product and would have no problems recommending this product for high-end enthusiast and mid-range workstation customers. The only real areas for improvement on this motherboard would be a second Gigabit Ethernet interface and the addition of integrated video (circa ATI ES1000) for server purposes, but to us at least that isn't necessary.

For server and desktop motherboard reviews and pricing, visit TestFreaks.com.