Solved 6x2GB 1600MHz vs 4x4GB 2133MHz Memory Modules

[JFC15]

I have a GA-EX58-UD5 motherboard with 6 memory slots. (i7-920 OC to 3.8)Currently installed are CORSAIR XMS3 12GB (6 x 2GB) 240-Pin DDR3 SDRAM DDR3 1600 (PC3 12800) Desktop Memory Model HX3X12G1600C9 G. My motherboard can handle faster memory, so to try and give me a boost, I bought (2) G.SKILL Ripjaws X Series 8GB (2 x 4GB) 240-Pin DDR3 SDRAM DDR3 2133 (PC3 17000) Desktop Memory Model F3-17000CL11D-8GBXL. I've read so many different views on this and just need a definitive answer and this forum has always provided me with a wealth of knowledge, so thanks... With what I am working with, what is my best option? Should I stick with the 6x2GB modules at 1600 MHz or switch to the 4x4GB modules at 2133MHz? OR if you have other options, I'm more than willing to listen. I know I should have posted here before purchasing the new ram... but I'm here now. I can always send it back. If you need more info on my system, feel free to ask. Thanks for any and all help.

 

[vaidas3]

well in my experience ram clock past some limit doesnt have much visible benefit (well benchmarks may say othervise) but real experiencie is not noticeable. I dont do extreme oc so i dont know if that helps in ocing cpu.
in my opinion main reason for upgade would be you use less of your ram slots

i think 4x4 is better than 6x2..

 

[Dwarf]

I would say the opposite. The reason being is the i7-920 CPU is designed to make use of triple-channel memory if supported by your motherboard. The fact that it has 6 slots means that it does support this mode. It will support dual-channel mode as well, although this means a reduction of ⅓ (33%) in memory bandwidth (and a corresponding reduction in WEI score for the memory category).

If your board supports the faster memory, then use it but I would only use 3 sticks and have it running in triple-channel mode.