i have a epox 8kta3+ with a 1 gig t-bird and i am really pleased with it, so much it fact i am just about to build another 'puter for a friend based on one. i cant comment on the msi mobo as i have never owned one. but the epox is getting some rave reviews from the independant mobo testing sites. 9.5 out of 10 aint bad, is it.
hope this helps you