Introduction

Intel has done it to us yet again, another CPU with a core reduction, and with this comes another motherboard requirement. One thing can be said for AMD - any motherboard that supports the 90nm 939 CPU can handle the full blown FX series. When Intel launches a new CPU, even in the same socket format, you need to upgrade the motherboard because of new features; usually the CPU chews too much power for the current breed of motherboards to support.

It is no use complaining now, it's here and the requirements for the new 65nm Extreme Edition CPU's need to be placed on a board with the new Intel 975X series chipset.

We have had a look at the Intel Extreme Edition 955 CPU and the reference desktop motherboard that Intel plans to sell as its extreme board for their extreme CPU. Today we look at Gigabyte's offering to the I975 high-end market, the new Intel 975X based G1 series motherboard.

Gigabyte's new boards under the "G1" branding will be high-end, extreme quality motherboards and designed for gamers - gamers number one brand, maybe? The G1 brand will continue into 2006 with boards for AMD Athlon 64 CPU's and if we are right, ones for Core Duo and Core Solo CPU's, bringing the highly sought after Pentium M with Dual Core to the desktop market.

Today we have a look at Gigabyte's first serving to the G1 family, the G1975X. Will this board hold up to the hype? Let's see what is on offer and if Gigabyte are truly offering an ultra high-end gamers motherboard!