Soyo Dragon KT333 Ultra
 Reviewed by Akimoto, 05.11.02
 Provided by: Soyo USA

Features

Audio -

    The first thing that struck this reviewer when he read the specifications for the Dragon Ultra was the C-Media onboard audio. Now, while many mainboards include the CMI8738 audio controller, the DRAGON Ultra includes a header with extra connectors, which include SPDIF in/out and optical outputs. This allows not only for full 5.1 surround, but SPDIF connection to a home theater and to audio devices with optical input. The sound quality of the C-Media chip is excellent. It is on-par with the Sound Blaster Live! series, and is a far superior integrated solution than the standard AC '97 audio. This is truly the budget audiophile's dream.

RAID -

    The RAID controller on the DRAGON Ultra is the Highpoint HPT372 that supports ATA/133 RAID 0, 1, and 0 + 1 configurations along with standard ATA functionality. Included with the bundled software is a Highpoint manager that allows the user to manage the RAID array within windows, which makes things easier. The main advantage for the average user with RAID is that it allows for more IDE devices, or for the present devices to have their own channels which can speed up data transfer (such as on the fly CD burning).

LAN -

    The LAN controller that is included on the DRAGON is the 10/100 base-T Realtek RTL8100B controller. It performs on par with other PCI NICs, and is a great addition considering the increased use of broadband internet. This obviates the need of a LAN card and frees up a PCI slot.

USB 2.0 -

    The DRAGON Ultra sports the VIA VT6202 USB 2.0 controller, which supports up to 4 USB 2.0 devices. For those who need USB 2.0 functionality it's a nice extra feature, and should be becoming standard shortly.

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