Hi guys. I'm upgrading in the near future, how does this sound: Asus A8N32 2x 7800GT 2GB Corsair Value Select Now my problem is whether to go dual core or not. I was thinking of buying a x2 4200+ or, more likely, a x2 3800+, but i don't know. Is dual core even worth it? With the cash spent on a DC chip i could buy a faster single core chip. What do you guys think?
Depends on what you're doing with it. Dual core is great for multithreaded applications, and it helps a lot with Windows' abysmal multitasking ability -- especially when you're running an antivirus and half-a-dozen anti-spyware programs. As for gaming, most games are single-threaded, and so would perform much better on a faster single-core than on an X2. Also note that Windows 95, 98, 98SE, ME, and XPHome will not be able to make use of SMP (symmetric multi-processing). Hope this helps. -AT
Go with a fast single core AMD CPU if you want to game, if you think you could benefit an extra core working when you are runnin multiple applications then go dual core. A dual core CPU would still be good in games though, it's just a faster single core CPU might get you a few more FPS.
Yea but a dual 3800+ or a comprable single core may not do the SLI 7800's justice. I'm not sure though, correct me if I'm wrong.
Hi From what I understand from a good freind, dual core is the new battlefield between the giants. The way he put it was: "The new 'question' will be not how fast is your CPU but how many cores it will hold". In other words the race for Ghz and nm technology is pushed aside slightly to concentrate on stuffing more cores into the die. So I suppose that if you want to embrace the new technology then yes, go for Dual-Core. To a humble, non-gamer, light using surfer like me it makes no difference at all. Probably an overkill. However, I wonder if it will do better at video manipulation..... hah:
You're right, it is overkill. However, for some (and I do include myself in this) high-end PC's for some guys are like cars or tools to others. I usually use my 800MHz laptop these days, but I like to try and stay fairly current with what I can. The other thing is, if you don't use dual-core now, you can always get one later. Prices can, and will, drop, not to mention the people with endless amounts of cash who upgrade to the latest and greatest get rid of their stuff around the 'net.
