Motherboard Purchase: KT333 with raid or KT400 with software raid

[Eladijaz]

Saluton,
Requesting any comments on a motherboard upgrade purchase ...
Have 2 WD80gb HDD I would like to try in RAID 0 config. but am wanting to stay under AU$200 (US$100) if I can ... so here's the thing:
MSI K74V (MS6712) KT400 chipset no raid - AU$165 (US$82)
MSI KT4 Ultra (MS6590) KT400 no raid - AU$205 (US$102)
MSI KT3 Ultra2 (MS6380E) KT333 with raid - AU$185 US$92)

Any comments on other brands/boards welcome!

If I go with the non-raid variety then I will try out software raid under WinXP ... so any thoughts ... I'm leaning towards the KT333 with raid.
I guess the main question is whether or not the 8x north/south bridge connection makes a significant difference to performance in the KT400

Other components:
512 DDR PC2700;
Athlon XP2100+;
2 x 80gb West.Dig.;
GF4 MX440;
other less notable hardware ...

Regards,
Dale.

[thronka]

There is a Kt400 with raid from Soyo. Try that board. MSI has one but I am not sure what model number or what.

[Eladijaz]

Indeed, MSI have several with the KT400 chipset ... I refer to 2 of them above.