Gigabyte has launched a new G1.Sniper Z87 motherboard, which combines the company's AMP-UP Audio feature set with the E2200 networking and gold hardware, priced at $170. GIGABYTE is already offering the G1.Sniper 5, a high-end ($400) motherboard supporting removable OP-AMP technology and four-way graphics card support. But the company is aiming at gamers for the low-end with the new G1.Sniper Z87, which still supports overclocking support and SLI/Crossfire.

GIGABYTE motherboards are the first to feature an upgradable onboard operational amplifier (OP-Amp). OP-Amps are commonly found in high-end audio equipment. The motherboard's OP-Amp is mounted on a socket which allows users to physically switch out and try different OP-Amps which offer distinct and nuanced properties that make the audio clearer. In addition, the motherboard 's Gain Boost onboard switches allow users to select between 2.5x and 6x amplification modes depending on output device.

The motherboard is also featuring a gold plated USB 2.0 port for noise-free power delivery to any Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC).

The G1.Sniper Z87 also features a dedicated Sound Core3D audio processor from Creative, a multi-core sound and voice processor offering high-performance hardware audio processing, with audio technologies including the latest SoundBlaster software suite.



To help protect and insulate the Creative Sound Core3D audio processor and onboard amplifiers from electrostatic interference (ESD), the GIGABYTE G1.Sniper Z87 motherboard features an audio noise guard that separates the board's sensitive analog audio components from potential ESD pollution at the PCB level. LED trace path lighting illuminates to show the separation of the PCB layers.

The motherboard also uses Nichicon MUSE ES series audio capacitors at each channel layout.

To keep costs down, the motherboard uses the PCH for all SATA 6 Gbps and USB 3.0 ports, but the system comes with a Killer E2200 NIC.

The motherboard will retail in the ~$170 range.