As further backing, I received an email from Frank @ G.SKILL:

“Reaching 2133 on an AMD platform is not new. During computex this year we displayed 2133mhz 16GB kit. We used ASUS AM3+ board and 1100T.”

Regardless, I have made a note under the AMD test-system table about AM3+, so everything should be good to go! 🙂

Hi there Redwoodz,

Actually, you are right. The highest overclocks I have seen range close to ~2060MHz on an AMD system.

However, and I should have mentioned this, I am using an AM3+ board.

Being in Canada, I buy from NCIX: https://ncix.com/products/?sku=60310

Here is the Gigabyte page for it: https://www.gigabyte.com/products/product-page.aspx?pid=3788#ov

Rev 3.0 is AM3 while Rev 3.1 is AM3+. If you notice the pictures between the two, Rev 3.0 has a white socket and Rev 3.1 has a black socket. Comparing that to the picture and description on the NCIX page, you’ll notice that the AM3+ is shown.

As far as I know, the Rev 3.1 AM3+ version of the 870A-USB3 has been announced, but not released. When I ordered, I ended up with the AM3+ version, which I believe must have been a mistake on NCIX’s part. I did a bit of research to make sure I had the right board, and sure enough it was the 3.1 AM3+. I also searched around and most people who recently bought the 870A-USB3 from NCIX had also received the AM3+ revision.

As based on the overview and specifications pages, the memory clock can easily break 2000MHz+, something that is difficult to do on AM2+/AM3.

That’s not saying that it’s the definitive reason as to why I managed to get to 2133MHz, but I honestly cannot find another clue. It has to do with the AM3+ board. I wish there were more details about AM3+ though.

Alas, you are technically right, and it is my fault for not including the motherboard revision, so I will be sure to add a note in the review.

Thanks for pointing that out! 😀