Constructed with overclocking in mind, the Z790 APEX Encore houses just two DIMM slots, diverging from the conventional four-slot layout. It integrates the ROG DIMM M.2 feature, allowing the addition of two more M.2 slots if required.
Scandinavian retailers recently included the ROG Maximus Z790 APEX Encore from ASUS in their offerings, indicating the brand's continued dedication to serving overclocking aficionados. The motherboard's "Encore" suffix denotes its lineage to the previously launched APEX version. While competitors are opting for nomenclature adjustments to their Z790 series, ASUS persists in its distinct naming strategy, utilizing terms like "Dark Hero" and "II." Historically, the APEX series has cemented its reputation in the overclocking domain, having set world records such as pushing the i9-13900K to 9 GHz and DDR5 memory speeds past 11.2 GT/s. The foundational 24 power stage system of the original board played a role in these milestones. Detailed specifics about the improvements made in the Encore iteration remain to be officially disclosed.
The motherboard comes with the WiFi-7 standard, a progression from Wi-Fi 6E, harmonizing with the updates seen in other Z790 motherboards. The APEX Encore remains consistent with its predecessor in terms of its single 2.5GbE Ethernet port. The audio module, powered by the Realtek ALC4080 processor and paired with the Savitech SV3H712 amplifier, has not undergone alterations.
ASUS ROG MAXIMUS Z790 APEX ENCORE Technical Specifications:
- Form Factor: ATX
- Socket: Intel LGA1700
- Chipset: Intel Z790
- Graphics Interface: 2 x PCI-Express 5.0 x16
- RAM Support: Dual DDR5-5600 with 2 x DIMM slots (Intel XMP compatible)
- Storage: 4 x SATA-600, 4 x M.2 NVMe PCI-Express 4.0, 1 x M.2 NVMe PCI-Express 5.0 (Compatible sizes: 2242, 2260, 2280)
- Connectivity: USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type A & C, Intel I225-V 2.5 Gigabit LAN, Intel WiFi 7 & Bluetooth 5.4
- Audio: Realtek ALC4080 HD Audio (8-channel) with Savitech SV3H712 amplifier
- Software Support: ASUS AURA Sync
Several retailers have cited the motherboard's price, oscillating between 9789 NOK and 839 EUR. Its release is anticipated to coincide with or precede the introduction of Intel's Raptor Lake Refresh (14th Gen Core series) slated for October 17th. A leak from Benchlife revealed the motherboard's black design aesthetics.
Source: Benchlife, Videocardz, Overclocking
