4k body normal map question

[zz2tommy]

Basically, I've been trying my hand at a 4k normal map for femalebody_1_msn.dds in order to acquire the definition/detail I desire, but this presents a problem where skyrim's fps drops to virtually 1 when 5 or more females are on screen. I've never encountered this problem before using the 4k texture and I'm hoping perhaps this can be handled by saving the dds in a specific format. 

 

I've skimmed topics regarding typical formats which I've gathered to be DXT5 with 6-8 mipmaps but my issue with this is that the DXT5 setting results in blockiness which I obviously do not want. Previous to using these highres normal maps I had always saved dds in '8.8.8' format in order to not have that blockiness. 

 

Any solutions?

[Rayblue]

With the 3.1GB memory limit now a current issue among modders (and that it'll be wishful thinking that Beth might release a 64-bit version of Skyrim), I suppose that you should reduce the size to 2k or even 1k.

[ballsy]

You'll be able to leave it at 4k for sure, but not uncompressed and in the right format. Use DDSopt http://skyrim.nexusmods.com/mods/5755 and the settings from STEP http://wiki.step-project.com/Guide:DDSopt. I keep female assets 4k when possible but in turn opt for 1k on a lot of other things.