MSI KT3 Ultra2-BR Mobo

Conclusion

The MSI KT3 Ultra-BR can be thought of as a seasonal update rather than a radically new motherboard. It carries over much of what we've already seen in the MSI KT3 Ultra and adds a few worthwhile features. The Bluetooth module and key are great for those who require the need to interact with their PCs on a wireless level. The emergence of sophisticated PDAs, well-specified mobile phones and a growing number of other devices all have the capability to make the most out of this wireless feature.

The general feature-set is strong, too. RAID, albeit one that doesn't give us a full range of RAID support, decent on-board sound and USB2.0 are just three of the features on offer. The lack of on-board LAN is somewhat perplexing, however.

The BIOS is generally strong with enough options to keep all but the most ardent of overclockers happy. Stability is something we now take for granted. Thankfully we can do exactly that with this motherboard. I'd like to see the archaic CNR replaced with another PCI slot, though.

Performance, when coupled with a fast processor, is admirable. The numbers laid down by the Ultra2 are strong across the board (no pun intended). Packaging is top-notch as usual.

The very fact that this motherboard is a minor revision on one that is over 4-months-old causes me a little concern. I've now seen Firewire (IEEE 1394a) make a concerted appearance on a number of P4 motherboards, it's kind of conspicuous by its omission here on what is essentially MSI's top-of-the-line motherboard.

I have no general complaints against the KT3 Ultra2-BR, it just fails to set my world alight as a few motherboards have done recently. I can temper this by stating that if you're after a solid, well-featured and reliable motherboard (who isn't ?), do yourself a favour and add it to your potential Socket A motherboard candidate list.

Highs