Does a better motherboard really effect your system performance? I know that certain mobos are necessasary for certain cpus, but would it really matter if i just got a new mobo and nothing else?
Yes it does make a difference, a newer one may have the ability to hold more ram and have a better chipset. In your case, it really isn't needed if all you want to do is a get a new mobo.
Usually with motherboards it's about compatibility, features, and brand names.
They aren't really like processors or video cards where they are a major factor in performance. It's mainly the components that are in them that make the difference.
firstly you have to see the Northbridge chipsets, then the manufacturers. as 2 different manufactured boards on same chipset does have difference in performance.