Test System:

CPU-Z

Mainboard

Wrong SPD

BIOS On 'Auto'

Since the FlexXLC standard specs are 800MHz at 4-4-4 timings, a comparable kit from Patriot with the same specs was used for performance comparison. Each kit was used in standard and overclocked benchmark configurations. Sisoft Sandra Professional XI was used to test the FlexXLC memory bandwidth and latencies.

OCZ Latency Benchmark (Lower is Better)

Patriot Latency Benchmark (Lower is Better)

Stock performance is very comparable to the Patriot PC2-6400LLK Kit that I have been using to compare DDR2 performance. The Sandra Memory Benchmark revealed very similar results although the OCZ Flex came up just a tiny bit short at very large data blocks. However, the performance scores are so close that you wouldn't really notice any differences in intensive games or programs. While using the test system for a week, the memory proved to be just as stable as any good quality memory and passed testing using the RST (RAM Stress Tester) Pro 2.0.. The system functioned properly without any abnormalities or errors during all kinds of various tests.

Memory Benchmarks

Now, it was on to the next question many users have in regards to overclocking. The system was overclocked in two separate methods. The first 24 hours were spent testing with an overclocked processor at about 3.0GHz. The memory itself wasn't overclocked at first as I like to overclock in incremental steps to allow the system to 'warm up' in preparation for the next step. And since I know the test board has been very stable in testing, it helps in convincing me that the memory is flawless as well. After proving the processor and motherboard overclock provide a stable platform, the memory was then incrementally overclocked with the CPU and Memory set to "Unlinked" in the BIOS. The memory reached 830Mhz before the voltage was increased to 2.2v. This allowed the RAM to reach 850Mhz using Cas 4-4-4 timings at which point the memory became too unstable. Loosening the memory timings to 5-5-5, the memory then hit a maximum 875Mhz. Anything above wasn't stable no matter how much voltage was applied nor any manner of tweaking .

Overclocked CPU & Memory Results

Unfortunately, I have to say that I am partially disappointed at the frequency limits of the PC2-6400 FlexXLC. The thought did cross my mind that this kit might be the 5-5-5 FlexXLC kit rather than the 4-4-4 kit. But, since the kit works at 4-4-4, I would have to say it's the memory modules now being used. The original batches released had Micron D modules which reached 1066MHz at 5-5-5 timings. We've seen better results from other kits like the Patriot PC2-6400LLK kits which are cheaper and capable of reaching 1000MHz depending on your motherboard. You just don't get the fancy RAM sinks is all.

3DMark05 Results

On the one hand, the OCZ memory is completely stable which is what you want foremost out of any memory kit. On the other hand when it comes to its $240 to $280 price tag, I expect more from the modules in terms of overclocking especially since it looks so extreme with its specialty ram sinks. They may really look cool but, realistically speaking, if I spend that kind of on a memory kit, it had better be capable of 1000MHz at the very least. It seems you are spending less on the memory and more on the ram sink. If the ram sinks were found on the same modules that are in the XTC Platinum series, then they would have a kit worthy of the ram sinks.
 

OCZ Vindicator & FlexXLC "Bling"

Conclusion:

OCZ felt there was a customer base willing to pay for a good, reliable CAS Latency 4 memory kit that sports the FlexXLC RAM Sink since their flagship PC2-9200 FlexXLC Kit requires a prettier penny. After using the memory for a local INTEL sponsored LAN party, it definitely drew some very curious users looking for something new to add to their extreme gaming systems. There were also others who were skeptical of its capabilities to cost benefit. Some of the suggestions included offering up the ram sinks as a 'mod' of sorts or just leaving it off for something a little more OCZ conventional to keep the price down. All of these ideas are very valid points as the price is too steep for my liking as well. The OCZ PC2-6400 FlexXLC Edition Dual Channel Memory is ultimately a very stable and reliable memory kit. The modules are capable of its rated specs flawlessly, but can't give you anything much above 800MHz as you would expect from such an extreme looking memory kit. In the end, the modules are ultimately a pricey memory kit sporting very cool RAM sinks that fall short of what extreme memory this expensive should be able to achieve. If you're looking for a specially modified memory kit and don't intend to overclock, then this is the good stuff. If you're intensions are to reach any level of decent overclocking, then you should consider the PC2-9200 FlexXLC though you will be spending quite a bit more.