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The ASUS PRIME TRX40 Pro motherboard marks a shift in ASUS’s strategy for high-end desktop (HEDT) platforms. Instead of solely focusing on premium offerings like the ROG ZENITH EXTREME, ASUS now caters to a broader audience, including those seeking a more streamlined and less flashy alternative. The PRIME TRX40 Pro offers just that: a robust foundation for Threadripper CPUs without the gamer-centric aesthetics and features found in products like the ASUS Strix TRX40-E Gaming. This review provides an overview of the PRIME TRX40 Pro’s design, features, and overall value proposition.

ASUS PRIME TRX40 Pro Motherboard

Minimalist Design and Packaging

The PRIME TRX40 Pro’s packaging reflects its understated design philosophy. A simple black and blue box showcases the motherboard, highlighting key features like NVIDIA SLI and AMD CrossFire support. Notably, the packaging emphasizes compatibility with DTS:X Ultra, a cutting-edge object-based audio technology that rivals Dolby Atmos, hinting at the board’s potential as a powerful entertainment hub.

ASUS PRIME TRX40 Pro Motherboard Packaging

The rear of the box further details key features, including the Dual Intelligent Processor 5 (DIP5) technology. This intelligent processing unit optimizes performance, temperature, and noise levels, further reinforcing the PRIME series’ focus on ease of use and minimal user configuration, even within the typically complex HEDT segment.

ASUS PRIME TRX40 Pro Motherboard Rear Panel

A Clean Aesthetic with a Modern Touch

The PRIME TRX40 Pro itself adopts a clean, modern aesthetic with a predominantly white color scheme, aligning with current trends in PC hardware design. While lacking the backplate found on some higher-end boards, the motherboard features a robust PCB, comparable to server-grade standards, ensuring durability and stability. A Foxconn-manufactured CPU backplate protects the socket from the weight of heavy coolers.

ASUS PRIME TRX40 Pro Motherboard Overview

Feature-Rich for Productivity and Entertainment

The PRIME TRX40 Pro shares many features with its gaming-oriented counterparts, including eight RAM slots supporting DDR4 memory speeds up to 4666MHz. While lacking integrated Wi-Fi 6, the board provides an M.2 2242 slot for adding a Wi-Fi card.

ASUS PRIME TRX40 Pro Motherboard RAM Slots

A unique feature is the vertically-mounted M.2 slot, accommodating server-sized SSDs up to 22110. The board’s power delivery system, featuring 16 Infineon TDA21472 power stages with a 70A capacity and dual 8-pin CPU power connectors, ensures ample power for demanding CPUs.

ASUS PRIME TRX40 Pro Motherboard M.2 Slot

Differentiating the PRIME TRX40 Pro from its gaming siblings are onboard power and reset buttons and a debug LED display, simplifying troubleshooting and system operation, especially with open-air test benches.

ASUS PRIME TRX40 Pro Motherboard Vertical M.2 Slot

Audio Excellence with DTS:X Ultra

A highlight of the PRIME TRX40 Pro is the Realtek ALC S1220 audio codec, supporting 8-channel audio and DTS:X Ultra. This technology delivers immersive, object-based audio for both games and movies, easily rivaling Dolby Atmos setups. Users can activate DTS:X Ultra through the DTS Sound Unbound app on the Microsoft Store.

ASUS PRIME TRX40 Pro Motherboard Power Delivery

Despite its minimalist design, the PRIME TRX40 Pro still supports Aura Sync RGB lighting customization via Addressable Gen 2 headers, allowing users to add personalized lighting effects.

ASUS PRIME TRX40 Pro Motherboard Debug LED

ASUS PRIME TRX40 Pro Motherboard RGB Header

Conclusion: A Solid Foundation for Threadripper Systems

The ASUS PRIME TRX40 Pro offers a compelling alternative for users seeking a powerful yet understated TRX40 motherboard. Its minimalist design, robust feature set, and focus on ease of use make it a suitable choice for productivity, entertainment, and even gaming. The inclusion of DTS:X Ultra further enhances its value as a multimedia centerpiece. This motherboard empowers users to build a high-performance Threadripper system without unnecessary complexity or flashy aesthetics.