Dual Channel Mem - two sticks or a matched pair???

[rdrr68]

I have an older Motherboard that uses PC3200 DDR memory and likes to have dual channel, but will work (more slowly) with single channel memory.
I see some dual channel memory advertised as dual with two identical matched sticks in a single package. I also see people advertising for dual channel memory by selling two individual single sticks of the same type and telling you it will work the same as dual channel if you just plug both of them in.
The Question is - is there a difference between a SET of dual channel memory sticks and just buying TWO IDENTICAL, but SINGLE sticks?

Thanks for the help!!!

[Wizzard1]

If they are identical, there should be no problem.

In my experience, the problems arise when SIMILAR sticks, IE same specs but different mnfg/datestamp etc are todl to match... Problems arise with slight deviations.

Closer the memory, better the synch. If the synch doesnt work, you're SOL