The Asus ROG Maximus Z790 Apex Encore is a premium motherboard for extreme overclocking.
Asus ROG brand is renowned for producing high-end overclocking boards, and the Apex Encore seeks to push the limits of Intel’s latest CPUs. While its price point puts it beyond most users, it aims to deliver flagship features and components for pushing hardware limits.
The original Z790 Apex already achieved world record overclocks, and the Encore aims to surpass this. Under the hood, it upgrades critical areas like power delivery and cooling to stabilize extreme frequencies. Professional overlockers and hardcore enthusiasts willing to pay top dollar will find a thorough toolkit and platform for chasing performance records.
Power Delivery and Cooling
At the core, robust power delivery is critical to handling extreme overclocks. The Apex Encore employs a robust 24+0+2 phase design with 90A power stages to remain rock solid under stress.
It uses premium elements like microfine alloy chokes and high-current SMD capacitors crafted for stability. Significantly beefier VRM heatsinks connect via heatpipe for maximum heat dissipation from power circuitry. Cooling the CPU is also crucial, and the Apex Encore fully supports liquid cooling with additional fan and water headers.
However, cooling RAM and M.2 storage is also critical when pushing limits. The ROG Memory Fan Kit actively cools DIMMs, while three M.2 heatsinks and the DIMM.2cards solutions keep SSDs from throttling. Even VRM and PCIe heatsinks receive thermal pads to spread heat effectively.
Overclocking Features
Advanced features are necessary for expert tuning and benchmark runs for committed overclockers—the Apex Encore bundles a complete toolkit. Buttons like Safe Boot and BIOS quickly reset the system, while the Slow mode lets it boot at base speeds. ProbeIt contacts measure voltages precisely.
Image Source: ROG ASUS
More specialized tools include the LN2 mode activating sub-ambient options and RSVD switch for starting when below -120°C. Pausing mid-bench allows voltage tweaks. The Memtest utility and two BIOS chips cover eventual failures. Differential sensing relays actual voltages to software, while condensation detection prevents shorts.
Connectivity and Expansion
Maximizing performance requires entirely using modern technologies. The Apex Encore brings leading connectivity that is on par with its status. Its onboard M.2 slot supports lightning-fast PCIe 5.0 SSDs and two robust PCIe 5.0 x16 slots unleash flagship graphics cards.
For storage junkies, the included DIMM.2 card adds two more PCIe 4.0 M.2 slots in an easy-access module. Modern networking comes via an Intel WiFi 7 chip, enabling 160MHz channels and 4K QAM. 2.5Gb Intel LAN ensures stable, low-latency connections. Around the rear IO are USB 3.2, Thunderbolt,t, and high-speed front panel connectivity.
Software and Usability
Out-of-the-box usability remains critical, even for professionals. Besides Armoury Crate for lighting control and monitoring, Asus provides the full version of the renowned stress testing software AIDA64. Within the intuitive UEFI BIOS, features like AI Overclocking handles automated tuning.
Memtest integrated directly allows memory to be tested on the spot. The USB Wattage Watcher monitors the charging status of devices connected to the front panel USB-C port. The software ensures these premium hardware features remain accessible to all users. Asus includes several utilities, like the AI Suite, for system maintenance and driver updates.
Premium Construction and Compatibility
Longevity demands a robust design that can withstand the stresses of extreme tuning. The Apex Encore bears this responsibility well with a full-coverage VRM and chipset heatsink array. Cooling headers support extensive liquid loops or air-cooling.
It facilitates the upcoming DDR5 standard with two matched slots and optimizes memory performance. The ROG Memory Fan Kit and DIMM Flex software keep DIMMs stable under heat until their limits. Both 13th and 14th Gen Intel CPUd, along with previous generations,s should users upgrade late, are natively supported.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Asus ROG Maximus Z790 Apex Encore motherboard represents the pinnacle of premium Intel Z790 platforms. It packs exhaustive wiring, components, cooling,g, and software-required performance records with enthusiasts.
Willing to push limits will appreciate top-shelf power delivery, memory tuning,g, and specialized interface. Professionals get the tools needed for extreme sub-zero benching without compromises. While expensive, it aims to give dedicated users supreme control over Intel’s latest generations for maximized performance.
