Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX Ice Motherboard Review

There are many crucial parts to a computer to make it work, from the processor to the power supply. The motherboard is one of the most critical parts. Your motherboard determines what socket you use for your processor as well as what memory you are going to be using. Today I will be reviewing Gigabyte’s Z790 Aorus Elite AX Ice. The motherboard MSRP is $269.99.

Features and specs:

• CPU
1. LGA1700 socket: Support for the 14th, 13th, and 12th Generation Intel^® Core™, Pentium^® Gold and Celeron^® Processors
2. L3 cache varies with CPU

(Please refer "CPU Support List" for more information.)

• 
  Chipset
1. Intel^® Z790 Express Chipset
• Memory
1. Support for DDR5 7600(O.C.) /7400(O.C.) /7200(O.C.) /7000(O.C.) /6800(O.C.) /6600(O.C.) / 6400(O.C.) / 6200(O.C.) / 6000(O.C.) / 5800(O.C.) / 5600(O.C.) / 5400(O.C.) / 5200(O.C.) / 4800 / 4000 memory modules
2. 4 x DDR5 DIMM sockets supporting up to 192 GB (48 GB single DIMM capacity) of system memory
3. Dual channel memory architecture
4. Support for ECC Un-buffered DIMM 1Rx8/2Rx8 memory modules (operate in non-ECC mode)
5. Support for non-ECC Un-buffered DIMM 1Rx8/2Rx8/1Rx16 memory modules
6. Support for Extreme Memory Profile (XMP) memory modules

(The CPU and memory configuration may affect the supported memory types, data rate (speed), and number of DRAM modules, please refer to "Memory Support List" for more information.)

• 
  Onboard Graphics

Integrated Graphics Processor-Intel^® HD Graphics support:

1. 1 x HDMI port, supporting a maximum resolution of 4096x2160@60 Hz
   * Support for HDMI 2.1 version and HDCP 2.3.
   ** Support native HDMI 2.1 TMDS compatible ports.
2. 1 x DisplayPort, supporting a maximum resolution of 4096x2304@60
   * Support for DisplayPort 1.2 version and HDCP 2.3

(Graphics specifications may vary depending on CPU support.)

• Audio
1. Realtek^® Audio CODEC
2. High Definition Audio
3. 2/4/5.1/7.1-channel
   * You can change the functionality of an audio jack using the audio software. To configure 7.1-channel audio, access the audio software for audio settings.
4. Support for S/PDIF Out
• LAN
1. Realtek^® 2.5GbE LAN chip (2.5 Gbps/1 Gbps/100 Mbps)
• 
  Wireless Communication module

Intel^® Wi-Fi 6E AX211 (PCB rev. 1.0)

1. WIFI a, b, g, n, ac, ax, supporting 2.4/5/6 GHz carrier frequency bands
   
   
2. BLUETOOTH 5.3
3. Support for 11ax 160MHz wireless standard and up to 2.4 Gbps data rate

Realtek^® Wi-Fi 6E RTL8852CE (PCB rev. 1.1)

4. WIFI a, b, g, n, ac, ax, supporting 2.4/5/6 GHz carrier frequency bands
5. BLUETOOTH 5.3
6. Support for 11ax 160MHz wireless standard and up to 2.4 Gbps data rate

* Actual data rate may vary depending on environment and equipment.

• 
  Expansion Slots

CPU:

1. 1 x PCI Express x16 slot, supporting PCIe 5.0 and running at x16 (PCIEX16)
   * The PCIEX16 slot can only support a graphics card or an NVMe SSD. If only one graphics card is to be installed, be sure to install it in the PCIEX16 slot.

Chipset:

2. 1 x PCI Express x16 slot, supporting PCIe 4.0 and running at x4 (PCIEX4_1)
3. 1 x PCI Express x16 slot, supporting PCIe 3.0 and running at x4 (PCIEX4_2)
• 
  Storage Interface

CPU:

1. 1 x M.2 connector (Socket 3, M key, type 22110/2280 PCIe 4.0 x4/x2 SSD support) (M2A_CPU)

Chipset:

2. 2 x M.2 connectors (Socket 3, M key, type 22110/2280 PCIe 4.0 x4/x2 SSD support) (M2P_SB, M2Q_SB)
3. 1 x M.2 connector (Socket 3, M key, type 22110/2280 SATA and PCIe 4.0 x4 SSD support) (M2M_SB)
4. 6 x SATA 6Gb/s connectors

RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, and RAID 10 support for NVMe SSD storage devices

RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, and RAID 10 support for SATA storage devices
* Refer to "2-8 Internal Connectors," for the installation notices for the M.2 and SATA connectors.

• 
  USB

Chipset:

1. 1 x USB Type-C^® port on the back panel, with USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 support
2. 1 x USB Type-C^® port with USB 3.2 Gen 2 support, available through the internal USB header
3. 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports (red) on the back panel
4. 5 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports (3 ports on the back panel, 2 ports available through the internal USB header)

Chipset+2 USB 2.0 Hubs:

5. 8 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports (4 ports on the back panel, 4 ports available through the internal USB headers)
   
• Internal I/O Connectors
1. 1 x 24-pin ATX main power connector
2. 2 x 8-pin ATX 12V power connectors
3. 1 x CPU fan header
4. 1 x water cooling CPU fan header
5. 3 x system fan headers
6. 1 x system fan/water cooling pump header
7. 2 x addressable LED strip headers
8. 2 x RGB LED strip headers
9. 4 x M.2 Socket 3 connectors
10. 
    6 x SATA 6Gb/s connectors
11. 1 x front panel header
12. 1 x front panel audio header
13. 1 x USB Type-C^® header, with USB 3.2 Gen 2 support
14. 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 header
15. 2 x USB 2.0/1.1 headers
16. 2 x Thunderbolt™ add-in card connectors
17. 1 x Trusted Platform Module header (For the GC-TPM2.0 SPI/GC-TPM2.0 SPI 2.0 module only)
18. 1 x reset button
19. 1 x Q-Flash Plus button
20. 1 x Clear CMOS button
21. 1 x reset jumper
22. 1 x Clear CMOS jumper
• 
  Back Panel Connectors
1. 1 x USB Type-C^® port, with USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 support
2. 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports (red)
3. 3 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports
4. 4 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports
5. 2 x SMA antenna connectors (2T2R)
6. 1 x HDMI 2.0 port
7. 1 x DisplayPort
8. 1 x RJ-45 port
9. 1 x optical S/PDIF Out connector
10. 2 x audio jacks
• 
  I/O Controller
1. iTE^® I/O Controller Chip
• H/W Monitoring
1. Voltage detection
2. Temperature detection
3. Fan speed detection
4. Water cooling flow rate detection
5. Fan fail warning
6. Fan speed control
   * Whether the fan (pump) speed control function is supported will depend on the fan (pump) you install.
• 
  BIOS
1. 1 x 256 Mbit flash
2. Use of licensed AMI UEFI BIOS
3. PnP 1.0a, DMI 2.7, WfM 2.0, SM BIOS 2.7, ACPI 5.0
• Unique Features
1. Support for GIGABYTE Control Center (GCC)
   * Available applications in GCC may vary by motherboard model. Supported functions of each application may also vary depending on motherboard specifications.
2. Support for Q-Flash
3. Support for Q-Flash Plus
4. Support for Smart Backup
• 
  Bundled Software
1. Norton^® Internet Security (OEM version)
2. LAN bandwidth management software
• Operating System
1. Support for Windows 11 64-bit
2. Support for Windows 10 64-bit
• Form Factor
1. ATX Form Factor; 30.5cm x 24.4cm
   

The motherboard came in a color white box with a high-definition picture of the Aorus logo on the front of the box. On the back of the box, it lists some of its key features such as 16 digital VRM, the included Wi-Fi 6E and ultra gain antenna, USB 3.2 gen2X2, and 2.5 GbE LAN. Inside the box is the motherboard surrounded by custom-fitted cardboard to help keep the motherboard secure. The motherboard comes wrapped in an antistatic bag to help protect the electronics inside. Along with the motherboard is a user manual along with an installation booklet.

Some of this motherboard's features include the chipset supporting 12^th 13^th and 14^th gen Intel processors and a twin 16+1+2 phases design for the digital VRM solution in an 8+8 phases parallel power design. This motherboard has four DDR5 channel slots running dual channel supporting XMP 3.0 with memory speeds of 4000 and 4800, and up to 7600 when overclocked. Another great feature of this motherboard is the many storage capabilities, there are three PCIe x16 slots ranging from 3.0 to 5.0 capabilities along with four M.2 slots all supporting PCIe 4.0 x4. The motherboard also comes with some cool RGB lights attached close to the M.2 Thermal guard extension that is subtle but pleasing to the eye.

For connections on this motherboard, there are four USB 2.0 slots, female connectors for the provided Wi-Fi 6E antenna, and two USB 3.2 Gen 2 slots. There are also an HDMI port and a DisplayPort, one USB-C at 20GB/S, three USB 3.2 gen 1 slots, as well as a 2.5 GbE LAN port along with your mic and line-out audio plugs. There are also six SATA connectors that can support up to 6GB/s.

For the firmware and software for the motherboard, there is the BIOS with the normal black and white format with some color on the top of the screen that is pleasant to look at. The BIOS menu is also easy to navigate with both an easy mode and an advanced mode. Easy mode makes it easy for beginners to change the necessary settings to help optimize the system. While the advanced mode helps you better tailor your system for what you want.

I love the useability of this board.  Think it’s time to upgrade, but want to save some coin?  You can use your old 12^th Gen processor, and get a board that you can grow with.  You can get the  current features that you can use now, like Wi-Fi 6E, four M.2 slots supporting PCIe 4.0 x4, and RGB, to name a few.  And then save up for a quality new 14^th Gen processor.

 I used this system to run the tests and benchmarks: I7 13700K, AMD Radeon 6600 XT, Kingston Fury DDR5, Cooler Master Master Liquid ML360L V2 ARGB, with a Thermaltake ToughPower GF2 ARGB 750W PSU. For the benchmarks, I ran Fire Strike Extreme, Time Spy, and Speed Way from 3Dmark. I also ran GPGPU and Cache and Memory benchmarks from AIDA64 along with Shadow of the Tomb Raider and Horizon Zero Dawn. All of the tests were run on factory settings on a 1440p resolution.

With the benchmarks, the Z790 Aorus Elite AX Ice performed well in all of the benchmarks. It did well in the gaming area as advertised. In both Shadow of the Tomb Raider and Horizon Zero Dawn, the board and card combo did well, keeping the average FPS over 80 frames per second. In Time Spy and Fire Strike Extreme, the combo did well in keeping up with the high demands of the benchmarks and showing great results.

In conclusion, The Z790 Aorus Elite AX Ice is a great motherboard scoring pretty high in the benchmarks, and is set at a great and affordable price for a higher-end budget to mid-tier build computer. And as mentioned previously, it’s a great board that provides good performance now, while you save up for other comments of your new build, like a new 14^th Gen processor. Based on it’s design, features, quality and performance, as well as large bang for the buck, the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX Ice has earned our Editor’s Choice Award. If you want more information about these products and complete specs, you can check out their website at https://www.gigabyte.com/.

Onkyo News Release: Onkyo's New TX-8470 2-Channel Network Stereo Receiver

Onkyo’s New TX-8470 2-Channel Network Stereo Receiver Blends Exceptional Audio Fidelity with Modern Connectivity

INDIANAPOLIS, IN 05.14.2024  — Onkyo® is pleased to introduce the all-new Onkyo TX-8470. Built by and for audiophiles, the Onkyo TX-8470 Network Stereo Receiver seamlessly combines exceptional audio fidelity for music lovers with modern connectivity options for hassle-free home entertainment. The TX-8470 2-Channel,110-watts per channel stereo receiver is designed for high-performance audio playback, packaged with all modern streaming technologies. Ease of use by command with built-in third-party voice assistants such as Google®, Apple® and more that allow you to perfect your home entertainment ecosystem with modern connectivity features. Time to dust off that vintage vinyl collection... or start a new one!  The Onkyo TX-8470 was specifically made for record players. Thanks to our patented discrete op amp circuits and isolated MM / MC phono board, these sensitive phono signals are protected from unwanted distortions to improve clarity and audio performance.

In addition to its AM/FM Tuner, users can easily access their favorite high-resolution music streaming platforms with this stereo receiver, which has been integrated with our partners at Roon (Roon Ready), Tidal, Deezer and more.   The TX-8470 is an ideal choice for consumers who are not interested in multi-speaker surround sound sets-ups but want exceptional sound performance for music and movies. With a two-channel stereo receiver, rather than a larger audio video receiver (AVR), each component is meticulously optimized for more focused and refined audio output. Gold-plated terminals and audio-grade capacitors provide clean sound, while our carefully selected copper components support a high current drive and minimize vibrations, resulting in superior sound reproduction and a richer listening experience. Powered by 110 watts per channel at 8ohms, the TX-8470 features an AKM Premium 32-bit / 768 kHz Stereo 2-Channel DAC, HDMI ARC 4in / 1out – all supports 8K up to 40Gbps visual content support, HDMI ARC technology, 3 Digital Inputs (2 Optical and 1 Coaxial), and a Class G Amplifier.  The TX-8470 is the TV-friendly stereo receiver for tight spaces thanks to HDMI ARC technology and processing 8K visual content with high-res audio output. Its Class G amplifier ensures an efficient, accurate reproduction of audio signals throughout the frequency range with a low negative feedback design (NFB) for greater transparency and musicality.

The Onkyo TX-8470 is the ultimate music-loving enthusiast companion, offering an exceptional listening experience that redefines your enjoyment of music, movies, and games. Available to order now ($799 US) at authorized retailers and www.onkyo.com.

UNIT Dimensions: 17” x 5.9” x 13” (435 x 149.5 x 329 mm) (W x H x D) Weight: 20.1 lbs. (9.1 kg)  PACKAGED Dimensions: 21.1” x 9.4” x 15.9” (535 x 240 x 405 mm) (W x H x D) Weight: 25.4 lbs. (11.5 kg)

#  #  #  All rights reserved 2024. All brands and trade names are the property of their respective owners. About Onkyo® Onkyo is an organization consisting of people unsurpassed in the love of sound. We love our work, and that makes us perfectionists. We won’t settle for second best. We strive to complete what we have started. That’s the Onkyo spirit. For the past half century Onkyo components have been recognized as uncommonly musical among those who are truly fanatical about their music. Our aim for the next century is further refinement of our advanced music reproduction technology to create a new Onkyo that will become a more familiar name to people throughout the world. For more information visit onkyo.com.

Kicker 51KSS365 6.5 Inch 3-Way Component Speaker System

When it comes to car stereos, the sound quality of stock systems have come a long way. But there is still some room for improvement in the sound quality. The build quality of the some of the components, like the speakers, also has a lot of room for improvement. For example, many use paper cones in the midbass drivers. Whatever your reason for upgrading your car’s speakers, Kicker makes some great options. Up for review is their Kicker 51KSS365.

 

Features and specs:

 

Model:  51KSS365

Woofer (in, mm):  6-1/2, 160

Midrange (in, mm):  2-3/4, 70

Tweeter (in, mm):  1, 25

Impedance (Ohms):  4

Rec. Amplifier Power (watts):  15-80

Peak Power (watts):  160

Sensitivity (dB 1w/1m):  91

Frequency Response (Hz):  35-21k

Woofer Mounting Hole Diameter (in, mm):  4-1/2, 115

Woofer Mounting Depth (in, mm):  1-13/16, 46

Woofer Grilles Included:  Yes

The Kicker 51KSS365 came in a great looking color printed box. Opening the box revealed a well-protected speaker, held in place by custom cardboard. Materials used in the construction was mostly metal. Quality of materials used as well as fit and finish was very good. Also included were the crossovers, various mounting hardware options, and information card with manual QR code.

 

As mentioned above, the standard stock speakers that car manufacturers provide, definitely leaves a lot of room for improvement. Most have cheap paper cones. It’s just a matter of time before they fail. And the sound isn’t great either. Many people decide to upgrade their speakers. No matter when you decide to upgrade, Kicker has some great options for you.

Kicker has multiple different speaker lines. They all are huge improvements in build quality and lifespan, when compared to the basic factory speakers from the car manufacturer. As you move up the lines, the quality and sound improves. Their KS line is one of their upper lines.

 

I love the design of the 51KSS365. It not only improves the quality and sound of your speakers in multiple different ways, it’s also designed for simple installation. The midbass driver with its steel stamped basket and polypropylene cone and rubber surrounds are well made for long life, and also provides great sound. True to Kicker’s roots, it’s also designed to play loud at concert volume levels. With its 3-way design it provides better sound, more dynamics, and is more efficient.

 

It's design also provides for an easy installation with its high sensitivity and minimal needed power. It will work as a plug and play factory speaker replacement. 15 watts after all is all that is needed. With its use of factory holes and mounting points, the Kicker 51KSS365 is designed to be plug and play for many GM, Ford, Chrysler, Jeep, and Dodge vehicles, as well as select import vehicles. The plug and play design is assisted by the slimline in-line crossovers. The metal mounting plates are also a testament to the quality of the speaker system, that Kicker is doing it right.

 

Not all factory systems are equal. Some are basic, some are upgraded. The basic systems are low power, but optional systems can provide pretty good power. Yet my wife’s Chevy Bolt with its optional Bose sound system still uses paper coned speakers. With the efficient nominal 15 watts rating, the Kicker 51KSS365 3-way speaker system will work great in stock factory systems. But with it’s 80 watts RMS power handling, it will also work great in the upgraded factory systems. With it’s 80 watts RMS power handling, they are even a speaker system that you can grow into. If you want to further upgrade your sound, and really wake up the Kicker 51KSS365’s for the sound they are capable of, you can add a separate amplifier for them later.

 

I’m really excited for the Kicker 51KSS365. They are a thin design, crafted with quality components that is also well made. And the use of factory holes and mounting points, as well as slimline crossovers, it’s a simple plug n play for many vehicles. Add to that its 3-way design, it’s a formula to really improve your vehicle’s sound quality. Now let’s see how they sound.

 

AC/DC Back In Black:  cymbal was really crisp and clean, with good resolution of the contact of the stick.  Guitar was nice and raw with good harmonics.  Kick drum not only had really good dynamics and low-end extension, it had surprisingly really good resolution and really full sound doing so.  It revealed how capable the mid-bass drivers are with pitch definition of the midbass.

 

Rush Tom Sawyer:  vocals were nice and smooth with good texture of the timbre.  Cymbals were really crisp and clean.  Synthesizers had really good harmonics, as did the guitar.  And the clinic that the drummer provided was a smorgasbord of midbass that again showcased the dynamics and resolution the midbass drivers can provide.

 

Nat King Cole L-O-V-E:  hi-hat was really crisp and clean with great resolution of the impact of the stick.  Bass was smooth with really good low-end extension.  Violins were very smooth with nice resolution of the bow across the strings.  Piano sounded pleasantly natural, more so than expected for this price point.  Vocals were smoother than a Dove bar, with excellent resolution of the texture of the timbre.  But as nice as the vocals were, the dynamics and harmonics of the trumpet almost stole the show.  Soundstage was both wide and deep, better than I expected at this price point.  Imaging was also closer than it should have been at this price point.  Tip of the hat to Kicker!

 

This was actually a harder review to do than expected, because I kept getting lost in enjoying the music.  I had to keep catching myself, and putting myself back on task.  The speaker system did a great job with the resolution and dynamics, as just a couple examples of how 3-way speaker systems can be superior to 2-ways.  All three of the drivers held their weight, and provided great sound across the frequency range.  And in Kicker fashion, not only did they sound great, they sounded great Livin’ Loud!     

 

Kicker has a great product in the 51KSS365 3-way speaker system.  While it’s not perfect, it definitely performs and sounds above its price point.  And while it’s a bit different than traditional aftermarket speaker systems that use a single crossover network for the entire system, having a crossover for each speaker that is in-line with the wiring has its advantages.  It does make for an extremely simple upgrade solution to existing stock speaker systems.  They are also well made to provide years of use.  Based on its design, features, quality, and performance, the Kicker 51KSS365 has earned our Editor’s Choice Award.  For more info and complete specs, check out their website at www.kicker.com. 

Targus 15"-17.3" CityGear Overnight Travel Roller Review

When it comes to traveling, we need a place to pack our gear and to keep it protected. Even if it’s just a weekend, I always have to take my laptop. But my change of clothes, toiletries, etc. won’t fit in my laptop bag, so I always bring two bags. But what if it could? Up for review is the Targus 15”-17.3” CityGear Overnight Travel Roller, with $145 MSRP.

 

Features and specs:

Multi-fit laptop pocket fits laptops 15” to 17.3" screens

Dedicated pocket for tablet

Patented DOME protection system protects devices from impact

Zipped mesh pockets and compartments for smart organization

Distinct compartments for your personal belongings and IT equipment

Heavy-duty carry handle

Telescoping handle

Color:  Black

Style:  Roller

Protection Level:  Good

Capacity:  25 Liters

Dimensions:  17.55" x 16.50" x 8.60" (L x W x H)

Weight:  7.18 lbs

Laptop Compartment (W x H):  41.02 cm x 4.19 cm x 28.78 cm

Tablet Compartment:  26.16 cm x 18.161 cm

Warranty:  Limited Lifetime Warranty

 

The Targus CityGear Overnight Travel Roller came in a basic brown box. But that wasn’t surprising, it is just a bag. Opening the box was a nice-looking black bag covered in a clear plastic bag. Materials used in the construction was mostly fabric, like you find in a lot of bags, with some plastic and metal. The quality materials used, along with the fit and finish, was very good.

 

I really like the design of the Targus CityGear Overnight Travel Roller. It has a plastic skeleton at the back for structural support and solid wheels with metal axels. It seems built well to live up to its lifetime warranty. It also has the features needed for an all-in-one bag. It’s designed with all the features needed for a short weekend.

 

The Targus CityGear Overnight Travel Roller has all the features needed for a short weekend trip. The larger back compartment is big enough to hold at least one change of clothes, with padding for personal gear. The zippers are also lockable, for security of your gear. In front of the garment compartment is a padded compartment for up to a 17-inch laptop. On the front is a small padded pocket for a smartphone or small tablet. The large front pocket is your portable office. There’s a large padded pocket for a large tablet, pen/pencil holders, and a zippered pocket for smaller items like sticky notes and paper clips. It really provides everything you need.

 

I also happened to have a quick weekend trip that I wanted to travel light for. And the bag was small enough to be a carry-on. While snug, it actually fit under the seat in front of me, to stow as my personal item. The garment compartment had enough room for my change of clothes, and padded sections for my electronic items.

 

The Targus CityGear Overnight Travel Roller is the type of bag that everyone should have for quick trips. And this one should be on their short list. Not only is it well made to provide years of use, it’s supported by Targus’ Lifetime Warranty. Based on its design, features, quality and performance, the Targus CityGear Overnight Travel Roller has earned our Highly Recommended Award. For more info, check out their website at www.targus.com.