Here is the problem Meso. It is in the way the motherboard handles memory.
MSI uses a rare option: the X48C Platinum motherboard contains slots for both types of memory DDR2 and DDR3 (that's a relatively usual situation for a transition period, when such a technology is supported by a chipset) and a circuit to switch between the operating modes of the chipset memory controller. Unfortunately, it's not a very good solution, because a user has to install two stubs into memory slots of the unused type. These cards can be flipped to fit a slot type. To make up for the bulky solution, these stubs are equipped with LEDs that indicate the current memory type and help diagnose startup problems (if they don't light up, you have a problem).
As I said earlier, it has a complicated BIOS more for guys like me instead of guys like you that are not technically oriented. In other words, though very powerful it is a real B**ch to setup. It is even harder to flash the BIOS. If there is anyway to trade that motherboard for an easier to build Gigabyte or ASUS I would do it if I were you. That $69.00 Gigabyte G31M motherboard that Harley uses is almost as powerful as what you have and very overclockable. It would be worth it to make the switch and sell the MSI. If you need help doing it all you have to do is ask. I can walk you through it on the phone if you need that.
By the way Meso this is not meant as an insult in any way. This really is a very complex motherboad.
Ted