DescentBB

I like the idea of Tri-Channel memory over the dual-channel, but which socket offers the most forwards-compatible design? I don't want to sink a small fortune into a form factor and then be locked into something Intel is going to phase out.

The memory bandwidth benchmarks are pretty close. Money isn't really an issue but I would like to purchase a system that will go 4-5 years easy with some wiggle room for a future CPU (Hexa core?).

Thanks for any advice.

1156 is the way to go, unless you seriously plan on spending nearly $1000 a 6 core chip (which is the only reason tri-channel memory was needed in 1366).

It also helps that the 1156 chips are a good bit faster than the 1366 chips at the same prince points. Also the 1156 motherboards and outfitting them with memory are both less expensive than 1366.

Neither platform is going to go away any time soon though, so its 6 of one and a half dozen of another. 1156 has a built in PCIe controller and is faster at the same price point, 1366 is more overclocking and SLI/crossfire friendly.

Thanks Krom,

Power Supplys: Average Core i7 chip, 4-6GB RAM, Single GTX 285. No over clocking. What is a good ball park wattage PS?

im getting a 1156 aswell

500-700 watts should give you sufficient lifespan to keep it running for several years at least.