Buy a new computer now, or wait?

[CrimsonChaos]

Hello, I'm new to posting to this forum, though I've been reading the threads for quite some time. I was considering buying a new computer - something along the lines of an AMD FX-55 with SLI 6600 GT's. My question is:

With the new dual-core technologies allegedly coming out soon, does it make sense to buy a new computer now, or should I wait until the dual-core is offered?

I guess what I'm asking is, will these dual-core processors really present enough of an improvement over single-core chips to warrant the extra cost and waiting time?

Also, I know they are close to releasing the 64-bit version of Windows -- will they need to make another dual-core Windows version, or will the OS automatically be able to take advantage of the new dual-core technology?

Thanks for any advice you can offer!

 

[penceman]

fast enough without dual core

 

[DaveSimmons]

Buying dual-core won't make sense for most desktop users for at least 6 months - 1 year after it's introduced.

Right now, the main reason most people want a fast CPU is for games, but no existing games get much benefit from dual processors or a dual-core processor. Few if any games being developed now include any dual-processor optimizations that make a real difference.

Since each of the cores will likely be clocked slower than the fastest single-core CPUs, they will actually be slower for games.

 

[Dacalo]

Originally posted by: DaveSimmons

Since each of the cores will likely be clocked slower than the fastest single-core CPUs, they will actually be slower for games.

Listen to this man.

I am waiting for San Diego from AMD myself, supposed to be released early this April. I have had my rig for almost 3 years now, but I saw very little progress. It will be a while until dual core becomes practical for gamers.

 

[YOyoYOhowsDAjello]

Welcome to the forums.

I just wanted to ask you to please read this article with its benchmarks before you buy a $900 processor.

 

[Fern]

Might be worth waiting a little bit for the newest version of the (single core) AMD 64 chip. IIRC its code named Venice. New SOI is supposed to result in better/faster chips.

SLI with 2 6600GTs?. I suggest you consider 1 6800GT, which leaves you an upgrade path by purchasing a 2cd 6800GT down the road (to go along with the 1st). Of course, you'll still need the SLI mobo now.

 

[YOyoYOhowsDAjello]

Originally posted by: Fern
Might be worth waiting a little bit for the newest version of the (single core) AMD 64 chip. IIRC its code named Venice. New SOI is supposed to result in better/faster chips.

SLI with 2 6600GTs?. I suggest you consider 1 6800GT, which leaves you an upgrade path by purchasing a 2cd 6800GT down the road (to go along with the 1st). Of course, you'll still need the SLI mobo now.

Oh wow, I thought he said 2 6800gts.

A single X800XL or 6800gt is a better buy (and faster) than spending money on an SLI motherboard and two 6600gts.

If this is for intense gaming, cut your CPU back a lot (A64 3500+ for example) and spend a lot more on the videocards.

If you cut down the cpu, get an X850XT or SLI with 6800gts or something.

 

[CrimsonChaos]

Yes, my computer will be used mostly for gaming and web-site development. It's important to note that I don't like upgrading my computer constantly. So IF I do buy a new computer, I want something that will be powerful enough for the next 2 or 3 years or so. (Maybe with only 1 video card upgrade)

My thought has always been that many of the benchmarks we see today are a result of software not being optimized to use the new technology (or bottlenecks elsewhere). So while many of the benchmarks do not show marked improvement, once games/software are developed to use them, we should see a larger increase in performance. Right?

But yes, you guys are correct -- two 6800GT's.... NOT 6600GT's. And I thought Athlon-FX55 already was using SOI technology? I would get the Athlon 3800 for "value" purposes, if I couldn't afford the FX-55.

I guess what I'm really saying is... I agree that current games will not perform much better on the newest technologies (and may performance worse in some cases). But do you think the performance of future OPTIMIZED games will be a lot more impressive with dual-core chips? Enough to warrant waiting to buy a new computer? Or is the dual-core chip still simply just not worth the wait.....

Thanks again.

 

[ribbon13]

Unreal Engine 3 iss going to be highly SMP Optimized. The next slew of BioWare's RPGs are going to be using it. My contacts in a LOT of development firms I've worked at are all preparing for widespread SMP. Next-gen consoles will also push this.

 

[CrimsonChaos]

Thanks for the reply. I presume you think it's worth waiting for the dual-core processors then, ribbon13?

 

[aatf510]

Get the FX-55 or a 3500+ instead of a 3800+.

 

[tata]

let's came back to the beginning. For what purpose do you want to build a new computer?

 

[CrimsonChaos]

Tata, mostly gaming. Some web design (i.e. Flash).

 

[andy nowotny]

There is no need to use dual core cpu, for you have no chance to use its funtion

Now the memory is lower, you can buy a new computer

 

[SNM]

Originally posted by: YOyoYOhowsDAjello
Welcome to the forums.

I just wanted to ask you to please read this article with its benchmarks before you buy a $900 processor.

Or even this one from AMD.
Though I warn you it's a large PDF.