The number of dual-channel DDR platforms continues to increase, and has really created a subset of the memory market. The "matched pair" format is becoming increasingly popular, as these DDR module kits are perfectly suited for the requirements of high-end dual-channel DDR operation, and are a much safer buy than purchasing one module now and hoping to match it up later. The most popular configurations are the 2x256-MB and 2x512-MB kits, and with few exceptions, vendors offer the same basic speeds in matched pair DDR kits, as with their single module DDR.
The high-end matched pair DDR price list managed to outpace the single module chart once again, but not by much. Price cuts have really slowed down in this area, and it's looking like we may have hit a baseline, at least compared to the significant drops of the past few months. Prices are still decreasing in many areas, with double digit cuts hitting Mushkin PC4000 2x512-MB (-$22), Crucial Ballistix PC3200 2x512-MB (-$16), and Kingston HyperX PC4000 2x512-MB (-$15). Some matched pair DDR increased in price, such as OCZ PC4200 EL 2x256-MB jumping $20 and Geil Ultra Platinum PC4200 2x256-MB rising by $15. Overall, it's another tough week for dual-channel DDR kit buyers, but there are still deals to be had if you buy in the right place.