[SPUDLEY1977]

FLYBY,
Was reading some other analysis earlier, sorry don't recall the link. They took an i7 920 2.66 Ghzee ($300 US) and compared in effect single, dual, triple, quad core processors impact on FPS. They disabled enough cores with each benchmark run in order to be using four, three, two, one cores. Kinda simple and sweet analysis.

Seemingly across the board they saw significant gains from single to dual. From dual to triple, they observed insignificant gains. From three to four cores there was no incremental increase in output.

Interestingly you can purchase a E8200 for $150 US. I don't recall the diff in FSB or onboard cache betweeen the two chipsets. Let's assume that the E8200 is equilavent to running the i7 on two cores. Consider that the i7 costs 2x that of the E8200. Now add to this premium the fact that i7 compatible mobos will run approx $100 premium. Let's leave ram out of the picture for the moment.

So what do you get for that additional $250? Right now from the third party analysis I have read....no "significant " performance differences that you can touch/feel. You are on the next generation of chipset pin configuration which may or may not have any real value. You are buying the current cutting edge of CPU configuration which always costs a hefty premium for those who value the bragging rights. These rights are of value to some so this is not meant as a pejorative. Might this be why AMD came out with their triple cores instead of four?

The choice one might take would depend on the specs of current system: is it inadequate?, is it just time for something new?, do I need to burn some cash?, can I wait six months to see what my options are to upgrade?, if I choose to wait a bit will I be happy to buy the i7 920 (currently $300) or Q9400 (currently $290) for half it's current premium price - equivalent to what a E8200 costs now (currently $160)?

Consider waiting another few months, and whilst you wait read all the comparisons that more informed brains write up. And member to throw the costs into the mix as well as the other variables that you feel of value. The longer you wait the more you will save on the specific components and the more comfortable you will be with your decision. << Good sleep insurance<< Once you buy, do it, build it up, post up pics of the creation, and don't look at the prices till the next time the upgrade bug bites.

Oh but by all means give us an objective in-depth write up whatever choice you make.

PEACE