My new gpu doesn’t fit because of the mic in , line out, line in. What do I do

[ShiBDiB]

90% of backplates are 90+% cosmetic, closer to 100% on midrange cards like this one. So it probably can be, but it also looks like the shroud will need to come off to get at several of the backplate's fasteners. I'm not familiar with this particular HSF, but many shrouds don't come off without removing the HSF, which would mean repasting the die. OP has described themselves as inexperienced with PCs, so I've refrained from suggesting this particular course of action thus far.

If the ribbon/riser is full x16, why would that affect performance?

I guess if you spend the money to get a 4.0 cable they don't affect performance much if at all.. but you're also spending $75 on a cable when you'd be better off buying an adult sized mobo.

 

[sLowEnd]

If I understand the OP's concern correctly....