Introduction

Just a few weeks ago, AMD unleashed a brand-new set of APUs onto the consumer marketplace. Offering increased performance for those looking for that little bit of extra over the previously launched designs I personally like a lot, there are obviously some new chipsets to go along with those APUs. With a multitude of boards available from every brand, I will also cover several of the board products ready for your new or old APU over the coming weeks.

Our first such board is from Biostar. Over the last few years, Biostar has drastically changed the way it meets the demands of the marketplace by producing a slew of products with a focus on affordability and superb audio reproduction for every socket. Biostar's Hi-Fi series has seen several different iterations since its launch so very long ago, and today, I think it provides a good alternative for those on a budget who aren't as feature-focused as some enthusiasts like myself can be.

The Biostar Hi-Fi A88W 3D features support for AMD's FM2 and FM2+ APUs, so it can still be paired with some of the older chips out there to provide a decent base for a lightweight desktop build that is also easy on your wallet.

Specifications

AMD FM2+ Chipset

AMD launched many new chipsets to go along with their new APUs, if for no other reason than to support the fancy new AM2+ socket. Featuring a refined power delivery layout and better video output capabilities because of the new GPU's abilities, the new FM2+ chipsets from AMD offer the same basic features as past APU platforms, including integrated USB 3.0 control and support for SATA 6 Gb/s to all provided SATA ports.


The AMD A88X supports eight SATA 6 Gb/s ports with FIS-based switching in total and adds CrossfireX support. Targeting gamers and enthusiasts as well as those who like to keep up with the latest and greatest in technology, AMD intends you to pair this chipset up with AMD A10 and AMD A8 APUs and their "K"-level, "unlocked" APUs.

Each chipset, or Fusion Controller Hub (FCH for short), has a specific purpose and, thereby, a specific target market. Those who don't need as much can pick a chipset that doesn't give them as much functionality while saving money through features that chipset lacks. It looks as though you might get exactly what you pay for. It will be interesting to see how AMD's board partners assess AMD's FM2+ APUs and what products they design for them. Biostar has sent me their "Puro Audio" FM2+ offering with the Biostar Hi-Fi A88W 3D. The Hi-Fi A88W 3D is a ATX-sized board capable of both AMD Dual Graphics and straight-up Crossfire:

Packaging

The box the Biostar Hi-Fi A88W 3D comes in is nearly the same as the box of the Hi-Fi A85W I covered a little while ago. I love the way the package is stylized as it gets the point that the Biostar Hi-Fi A88W 3D is all about the audio across quite clearly. With logos and technology descriptions abounding everywhere, the rear of the box is pretty standard .


Opening the box, I found the accessories on top. The board was beneath those accessories and a layer of cardboard.