Gigabyte GV-N595U GeForce FX5950 Ultra review
We recently got the chance to take
a look at Nvidia's latest graphics processor release, the FX5950 Ultra chip, as thoughtfully provided by
Gigabyte in their GV-N595U video card. We were eager to see how this card compared
to recent offerings by ATI, as well as the older FX5900, since the FX5950 is identical
to the FX5900 except for a core and memory clock speed boost. More on
this in a moment...
Gigabyte's software bundle for the GV-N595U
includes full copies of Rainbow 6: Raven Shield, Tomb Raider: Angel of Darkness
and Will Rock: just Will Rock. Power DVD 5.0 is also included in addition to the
drivers. The three recent full games are a welcome addition to the bundle,
though maybe not quite so impressive for some as finding a coupon for half-life
2 in with your card. At least you get to play something right away
though!
All the necessary cabling is included: a DVI-to-VGA
adaptor for using dual monitors, a Y-splitter for the cables from the power
supply, in case you have run out of plugs, and an S-video cable with an
additional composite plug. The package also includes a breakout box to take
advantage of the GV-N595U's VIVO capabilities.
The
GV-N595U is a big card compared to its ATI cousins; the FX5950 Ultra is one
impressive chunk of mean green metal and plastic. Out of the box, you certainly
feel like you are getting your $499 USD worth of gaming muscle. We ran the
big green Gigabyte GV-N595U videocard through our benchmark
suite, and then through several recent games for good measure. What was the
experience like? Read on.