After some discussions for and against removing overclocking benchmarks entirely from PCstats reviews, we have decided to change how we do things, but still include them. From now on, PCstats reviews will simply list the maximum overclocked speed a motherboard is able to achieve here, rather than for each and every benchmark.

Since overclocking can be a very subjective skill, it just makes more sense to keep our benchmarks focused on the stock performance of system components. Plus, by listing the maximum overclocked speeds of various motherboards here, you have a better idea of which manufacturer really does produce the best goods for enthusiasts!

Throughout history Intel has always done things "their way," but as market leader they have an obligation to test out new methods and techniques before releasing them on us. If they didn't, the computer industry probably wouldn't have advanced as quickly, and cohesively as it has. Moving from Socket 478 to the pinless Socket 775 was quite a shock, but it provides the necessary room to grow CPU architectures will need in the coming years.

While installing Socket 775 processors can be tricky, the risk of damaging the socket pins which are soldered onto the motherboard is a much greater risk. Of course, the special CPU installation tool MSI include is always at hand streamline things.

For enthusiasts, the MSI 915P Neo2 Platinum motherboard offers up a dish of very aggressive voltage adjustments; up to 1.55V for the processor, 1.7V for the Northbridge and 2.4V for DDR-2 memory! Please keep in mind that it is very possible to damage your hardware with excessive voltage if you don't know what you're doing!

There are a few things with this motherboard that are just plain annoying. First and foremost is the PCI Express x16 lock; as it is, it's extremely difficult to use. Also, the 'rounded cables' are kind of stiff, and not very true to the concept of a 'rounded cable' which is easier to install. The ones that come with the motherboard are simply regular IDE cables folded up and wrapped in plastic.