The Inq
writes the nForce 590SLI will use the old C19 NorthBridge.
RECENT CONROE previews, done with a reference nForce 590SLI Intel Edition board, were showing a certain weakness in the memory controller.
We asked several motherboard vendors what are they using in their upcoming Nvidia-based products, and the answer was shocking, or at least surprising. It turned out that Nvidia uses the C19 NorthBridge, which is over a year old.
The reason for the weaker memory scores than on the also-old Intel i975X chipset is the fact that the memory controller inside the C19 NorthBridge comes with advanced QuickSync and DASP 3.0 technologies – but the tech has been tuned up for last-generation single-core and first-generation of Intel dual-core babies: Prescotts and Smithfield CPUs. NOT Conroes or even Preslers.
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by Thomas De Maesschalck 
That also means many of the same Nforce for Intel problems that have plagued the platform. The 975 is the only proven platform to run Kentsfield (next gen quad core after Conroe) and thus is likely to be the "well informed" choice of enthusiasts. This explains a great deal regarding Nvidia's refusal to allow SLI to work on the 975 chipsets, as it would appear that Nvidia is still trying to push old inferior chipsets out the door and can't give up the absolutely only reason to bother owning a Nvidia chipset. Because the 975 is preferred by well over a 10:1 margin, it is likely ATI and Crossfire, which work just fine on the 975 chipsets, will do well this year. Anyway, probably want to steer clear of the NF5 for Intel.
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