Audio Performance

For audio testing, we use Rightmark 3D Sound CPU utilization test. This benchmark measures the overhead or CPU utilization required by a codec or hardware audio chip.

Audio Performance - Empty CPU

Audio Performance - 2D Audio

Audio Performance - 3D Audio

For a standard on-board codec, the Realtek ALC655 features low CPU utilization across the board. ULi has done a good job of integrating this chip into their design. However, performance and specifications are average at best, and you will not get audiophile quality from this sound chip. If your sound needs are modest, the 655 will do the job, but it should not be compared to HD audio, for example.

The ULi M1573/75, which will be featured in some ATI north bridge designs for A64, will feature Realtek HAD audio. We will test that ULi 1573/75 south bridge for performance as soon as one appears on the market.

USB, Firewire & Storage Performance Final Words
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  • arfan - Friday, August 5, 2005 - link

    it very dissapointed, anandtech use M$
  • brownba - Friday, August 5, 2005 - link

    It is quite disappointing how children these days do not possess simple spelling and grammar skills.
  • mino - Saturday, August 6, 2005 - link

    Also the use of .NET by AT is understandable. What bothers me are the reasons for this.
    .NET is a really good platform to build on. And that IS dangerous.
    We don't want M$ to rule the Milky Way, do we ?
  • ryanv12 - Friday, August 5, 2005 - link

    This board is looking very good. I hope they come in at much lower prices as well.
  • neogodless - Friday, August 5, 2005 - link

    Very good to see competition like this, particularly as I slowly warm up to spending the money for a dual-core Athlon system... I should be able to keep a lot of my old components such as memory and AGP video card!
  • reactor - Friday, August 5, 2005 - link

    quite an amazing board, hope these become popular so the prices/availability get better. i am very interesting in getting one. 400 fsb is insane! good stuff anandtech as usual.

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