i5-2500k and 2400Mhz ram; Should I underclock or send back?

[simonh]

I just bought a new set of ram (2x8gb Kingston hyperx beast 2400mhz cl11), but just learned they're not compatible with my 2500k sandy bridge. What's the best option?

I've got a msi mpower z77 motherboard if that's of any relevance.

Hope you guys have some suggestions, and thanks in advance!

[Bad2049]

You only have two options. 

 

1 - Upgrade CPU

2 - Downgrade RAM

 

I'd say go with #1.

 

 

Edit: Added #3 - Underclock RAM

 

Go with #3.

[simonh]

I should be able to lower the timings if I underclock, right? If so, what am I aiming for?

[ProKoN]

why would you say they are not compatible?

 

to be honest very few processors are actually rated with memory speeds above 1600MHz.

 

just remember you will most likely need 1.71V-1.72V to have this memory run at 2400MHz, not 1.65V like XMP suggests

 

I have faith in the z77 mpower and 2500k running this ram at its rated speeds.

 

the second xmp profile is set @ 2133 cl 11.

 

you wont get cl10 unless you drop back to 1866