The MSI X58 Platinum is a budget motherboard built on the X58 chipset and provides support for the Intel Core i7 processor through the LGA 1366 socket. Available for around $225, this motherboard is relatively cheaper than most other X58 motherboards. MSI’s Platinum features support for triple channel DDR3 memory up to 24GB through 6 slots. The board also includes 2 PCI Express 2.0 slots capable of being utilized at x16 mode simultaneously, as well as 3 PCIe x1 slots and 2 PCI slots. This motherboard provides 8-channel HD audio surround sound thanks to the included Realtek ALC888 sound card. Also included are 2 gigabit Ethernet ports, 8 USB 2.0 ports, 1 eSATA port and 1 FireWire port for highspeed external data transfer. The MSI Platinum also supports 2-way CrossFireX in order to maximize users' graphics processing potential. Unlike MSI’s Eclipse, this chipset does not support SLI. The board also features high quality all-solid capacitors, in order to prolong component life and minimize power loss. Users looking for a budget X58 motherboard will likely find the MSI X58 PLatinum an acceptable choice.
