Motherboard related questions

[mxer394]

(Just to clarify: I'm relatively new to computers, so if some of the things I ask seem rather simple, bear with me)

Now, I realize in the world of technology, not all things are created equal. But I have a few questions about different motherboards.

How are some motherboards better than others. Take for example
(Quad-Core FSB1333) MSI P6N SLI-FI nForce 650i SLI Chipset LGA775 FSB1333 DDR2 Mainboard
AND
(Quad-Core FSB1333) MSI P6N Diamond nForce 680i SLI Chipset LGA775 FSB1333 DDR2 Mainboard

The latter is 168 dollars more than the former. Why? What kind of benefit would a better or more expenisive motherboard give me? I realize that it would be better in some way, but in which way?

Thanks for your time guys.

[Ajmukon]

650 vs 680- which sounds better?
is it worth an added 168?
--- no idea

[pop pop]

680i has four (4) PCIe-16 slots vice two for the other board. The 680i has Creative Sound Blaster X-Fi Xtreme HD Audio vice Realtek ALC888 HD Audio chipset on the other. The 680i has dual gigabyte LAN vice single.

Basically, allot more board for the money. Do you have a need for all that? That's the question.

[mxer394]

That was my second question. I'm trying to put together a solid gaming rig, so would I need to upgrade the mother board, or would a standard one be fine for gaming?

Thanks.

[George Hallam]

yes the 680i is 100% better for gaming rig due to it having dual PCI-E x16 slots (and another at x8) which is essential for newer cards (8800***) to be put in SLI.. the 650i only has dual PCI-E running at x8 in SLI

680i = x16,x16,x8 lanes (has 48 lanes in total i think)
650i = x8,x8 lanes (has 20 lanes in total i think)

but with only one card the 650i PCI-E slot will run at x16

the 650i is a watered down 680i i advise getting the 680i but if your on a tight budget get an intel chipset board (P35 or X38)