The X-24's performance is clearly at 100% of the level of the standard SLI Diamond Monster3D
II setup, with each score between the two rigs coming in at almost identical levels.
All modes of the X-24 performed perfectly, and the Quantum3D drivers allowed a good deal of
flexibility in the setup/implementation of the various Voodoo2 native options.
One item we'd like to mention here is the X-24's ability to stabily run while overclocked.
As part of each Voodoo2 review, we try to test the maximum MHz that the product will run
properly at, and record it for our notes. When something out of the ordinary occurs, we
mention it, and with the X-24 we noticed that even with no measures taken to cool the large card,
it still pounded out the Cyrellis 3D benchmark suite at 106MHz without hesitation. This is
about three to five MHz above what the average Voodoo2 has turned in on the same tests without
cooling, so it's worth noting. Most likely the quality of components that Quantum3D has
selected for the X-24 is directly correlated to the increase in sustainable MHz levels.
Otherwise, the X-24 was a great performer, living up to the expectations that anyone would have
when looking for an SLI-Voodoo2 solution.
In the final analysis of whether or not the expensive and rare X-24 is worth the price of
admission ($599), many things have to be considered. We've put together a list of questions
and answers to help potential buyers come to a conclusion:
Q: First, is it practical financially to buy the card just to save a PCI slot?
A: No. This is due again to the fact that several mainboard vendors are releasing 5 PCI slot
mainboard designs soon, and for the X-24's $599 price tag, a buyer can go out today and buy both
a competitor's V2 SLI setup ($400 for 2 STB Black Magics or Best Data ArcadeFXIIs) AND a
440BX 5-PCI slot mainboard ($160).
Q: Does the X-24 outperform the competition enough to warrant it's higher price compared to a
standard SLI rig?
A: No again, as even at 106MHz, the X-24 is only slightly faster than the lower priced SLI
setups from other Voodoo2 manufacturers.
Q: Will your friends be bowing down in homage to the X-24 when they first lay their gaze across
its mighty shape, and will they show fawning admiration to the owner of an X-24 to the point of
making "beer runs" just to get some game time on your PC?
A: Absolutely. This happened several times during the course of the week, almost to the point
where people were getting hazed and abused like fraternity pledges just to get some "seat time"
on the X-24 test rig.
In conclusion, the X-24 like the other exclusive Quantum3D products, does become the "Ferrari"
of the 3D-accelerator market: Impractical as hell, but almost worth the price of admission just
for the attention it generates.
