GeForce 9600GSO, actually a 8800GS, uses G92 GPU, that has 96 stream processors and three out of four memory controllers for 192-bit memory bandwidth. Working clocks are 550 MHz for GPU, 1375 MHz for shaders and 800 MHz (1600 MHz) for memory. It is planned that 9600GSO comes with 384 MB of memory, but models with 768 MB can be found.
The card class is positioned below model GeForce 9600GT, and they together challenge Radeon HD 3850. However, this card performances do not ''drop off'' as it is expected, so there are situations when this card is equally fast as 9600GT, while in others it is significantly slower than expected. That is happening because of significantly different characteristics: while GeForce 9600GT has 64 stream processors, 9600GSO has 96. GSO also has more memory on its side, because 9600GT standardly comes with 256 MB. On the contrary, 9600GT has advantage in form of memory bandwidth (256 bits is ''wider'' than 192 bits), and working frequencies of this card (650/1625/1800 MHz) are higher than 9600GSO (550/1375/1600 MHz) frequencies.
The tested card was Bliss 9600GSO 768MB Golden Sample. It is one of the better 9600GSO models. In the first place, because it has 768 MB of memory, and then because its core clock isn't ''default''. Gaiward boosted GPU speed G92 at 600 MHz and stream processors at 1500 MHz, while 768 MB memory is increased at 1800 MHz. Everything is covered with dual slot cooler, which is not needed, but it is more efficient and looks more attractive this way. Package, except card, does not include anything worth mentioning-standard cables, discs and instructions.
In some situations GeForce 9600GSO came close to 9600Gt model but in many others was considerably behind. Nvidia determined the price for this card very well, obviously, at least considering their other model, GeForce 9600GT. We assume it is predicted that this card would be bought conditionally, depending on test or game which user specifically demands. If the test ''corresponds'' with new card, user can easily save the money and for less price get performances that are suited for GeForce 9600GT. However, if the judgement is wrong, you can easily get 40% slower card for 20% lower price, which is not good purchase at all.
Considering tested card, Gainward Bliss 9600GSO 768MB Golden Sample is 10% faster and 10% more expensive than standard model. It has better cooling and better performances, and comes with great overclocking possibilities which are standard for all Golden Sample models. If you require a little exclusivity and fun from hardware, and you like ForceWare drivers, than this Gainward model will be the right thing for you.

XGCDB team