I know that this question may seem strange, but it's hard to find a clear answer anywhere.
I currently have the following configuration
Core i5 2500k (Sandy Bridge) 16GB DDR3 RAM 2 x Radeon HD 6970 Graphic Cards (in Crossfire) ASUS Sabertooth Z77 Motherboard
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813131821
From what I understand, when using Crossfire, the two PCIE3.0 slots will only run at 8x. However, shouldn't that mean that the PCIE2.0 Cards should still run at 16x since essentially PCIE3.0 = 2x PCIE2.0's bandwidth?
I know that there is some limitations with the actual processor that I'm using. I've ordered an Ivy Bridge Core i7 and should arrive tomorrow. Once I upgrade the processor, will I still be in the same boat or will both Radeon HD 6970 cards be used to their full potentials?
If my goal is to run both cards at 16x, did I simply get the wrong motherboard? Gut told me to go with dual 16x/16x, but I wasn't sure if it was going to be an economically sound move.