Processor decisions

[gwhea38411]

First, let me thank 14u2c for introducing me 2 this forum.

Looking for feedback on my processor decision. It will be the A64 X2, either the 4400+ or the 4200+. Besides the 4400+ having a bigger L2 cache and importantly, costing about $150.00 more, are there any other reasons to pick the 4400 over the 4200?

Thanks to 14u2c, the following are my specs (**** 1st build):

Asus A8N32-SLI
A64 X2 4400+/recommened, yea I'm trying to skimp w/the 4200+ dual
Western Digital 320GB/16MB WD3200KS
2GB OCZ Gold XTC PC4000
NEC 3550a DL DVD/CD Burner
Geforce 7800GT (x2)
Thermaltake 600w purepower
Thermaltake Armor/aluminum finish
Windows XP Pro

All suggestions appreciated

[killswitch83]

Well personally, have double the cache and cores that are practically made for great OC's for 150 more is a blessing, lol. the 4400+ is really a good chip, not to say the 4200+ Manchester isn't, but it really depends if money is a BIG issue or not. If that amount isn't that big an issue, I would go with the 4400+, I think you would be happy with it considering your choice of mobo and memory. And hey, after you get it built, post some numbers, would be interested in seeing some numbers from our members :D

[Capper]

Personally, I'd recommend the 3800+ or the 165 Opteron....... quite a bit cheaper and the performance is about the same with a little overclock

[fps justin]

i'd choose the 4400+ cause of the cache difference.

[Capper]

You'd honestly be surprised how little difference cache makes. All things considered, the end difference between the 3800+, Opty 165, and 4400+ are little....except the price

[killswitch83]

hmmmmm, I thought Opty's use cream-of-the-crop cores in their manufacture? That would be a buy point for me, though the price is steep for em right now.

[Capper]

They are a bit overpriced, but still cheaper than the X2 in that performance class.

[killswitch83]

so so true.....couple that with the overclockability of the Opty, I would be primed to buy that over the 4400+.....guess I had a momentary brain fart, lol :P

[One4yu2c]

Originally Posted by Capper

You'd honestly be surprised how little difference cache makes.

I like to link GamePC's roundup to demonstrate the above. the extra cache just doesn't equate to a significant performance boost ---> LINK

That being said, if you have the budget for it, then why not? If looking for bang/buck though, I agree in looking at the 3800+ X2. If overclocking is an option (and it should be, given the RAM choice), that's an even stronger case for the 3800+ X2, and a very compelling one for the Opty 165 in my opinion. I'd probably lean towards the Opty, just to have the additional cache without paying a big premium for it.

[gwhea38411]

Well, i guess thats it then. The Opty I will go. Been reading some reviews since you'all pointed out the Opty 165. Cant find any serious cons to consider besides resellers jacking the price. Appears to be one fine CPU since I'll be trying my hand at OC'n.

Hey!!!!!, I just noticed below my name it says Hardware virgin!-You Dogs! LOL, made me laugh. And by the way, I am a virgin to "hardware" but an experienced sumgun when it comes to "software"LOL.