More Testing:

Because these are TOP edition graphics cards, overclocking proved to be some what limited since they are already so nicely tuned beyond factory settings. The core frequency reached 722MHz where as the memory topped out at 2042MHz which isn't much in terms of user overclocking, but is an over increase of 122MHz core and 242MHz memory over the stock 8800 GT 512MB.

And the newer, more refined G92 gives it the efficiency it needs to be able to keep up with the 8800 GTS and even surpass it in some of the tests. Interestingly, the 8800 GTS and GT are very close at lower resolutions. It's most likely a combination of the G92 and the 512MB memory as well the frequencies that step up the performance at the higher resolutions. In the end, the more G92 has a lot more going for it than the white sheets or specs papers suggest. I'm sure we'll learn more what it is exactly as the information is released.

Heat Sinks

And again, I just can't say how pleasant the low fan noise was compared to the stock version GPU cooler. Users who choose to use the SLI configuration will be pleasantly surprised as well. The chances are that your CPU cooler or case fans will likely end up being the loudest. Two of the Glacier cards will be so much quieter than two stock versions. Can you imagine two stock cards whirling out 40+ decibels each?

Conclusion:

So, where does the 8800 GT fit in terms of market niche? I'd say it's still well tuned for users looking for the best bang for buck. I mean, it's still a really, really good buy. The regular 8800 GTS, GTX, and Ultras are still quite a bit more with the GTX and Ultra still costing the most. The ASUS 8800 GT TOP Edition may cost a little more than the stock frequency versions, but the card packs a bigger punch thanks to its factory overclocked settings and the card is very quiet. And the card is fully warrantied.

The Red Eye Sees All

Most of ASUS' TOP series cards tend to require a little more money. The money tends to be worth it given that ASUS spends a lot of time polishing off the series with games, plenty of wiring or adapters, thorough software, and extremely stable performance no matter how high the factory frequencies are overclocked. This is true right down to the caps used to cover the graphic card's ports.

While you won't squeeze much more in terms of overclocked frequencies, the card already comes with a hefty factory overclock and is fully covered under warrantee. You're not going to get that kind of coverage or the peace of mind from a stock card. Extreme graphics fans will undoubtedly find the performance and coverage worth the price.

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