I read about some people having issues with Linux using EVGA mainboards that are based on X58 chipset.

Do you use the latest BIOS for your mainboard?

Knoppix 7.0.5 DVD provides a debug mode if you boot up your system using
Code:
debug64
instead of
Code:
knoppix64
Every time you get a prompt you have to issue 'exit' or press CTRL-D in order to continue. Maybe this will give you an answer what could be done instead of disabling the local APIC.

Board is replaceable