CPU recommendation

[jim1976]

I did a search but I couldn't find something similar so I'm asking this

I have a P4 2.8c (on msi neo fis2r) with 1Gb pc3200 and a 6800GT.
I realized that I'm seriously cpu limited so I'm looking for a new cpu

My options are:

1. Stay with this mobo and take 3.2(Northwood)
2. Change to AMD (cpu+mobo) and take A64 3200+
3. The same with option 2 and take 3400+

Basically I ask this.
Will P4 3.2 will be a good option(that way I won't have to change the mobo too) or should I go for an A64?
And if I do this does the 3400+ worth the extra cash over a 3200+ (same speed with 1mb l2 cache)?
I'm not talkin for small differences but noticeable ones. Otherwise I can stay with my 2.8c and o/c it, but I want stability.

It's strictly for gaming purposes. Thankz

 

[HardcoreRobot]

IMO your rig is still pretty sweet and I wouldnt waste any money upgrading. In my experience, the gains from just boosting clock speed without changing the underlying bus / memory speeds has been disappointing. It may not be helpful or entirely correct, but its my 2c nonetheless...

 

[NeonFlak]

A64s are the best for gaming. But in your case, unless you have the money just burning a hole in your pocket I'd see how far your 2.8c will overclock.

 

[Kenazo]

I'd recommend overclocking. I'm sure you'd be able to hit 3.2ghz with your setup anyway. Then, in another year you can consider upgrading.

 

[CraigRT]

I also don't recommend upgrading just yet. if maybe you had a 2.4 or less, but a 2.8C is a fine CPU.. perhaps try OCing and shoot for 3.2?
you might be surprised

 

[jim1976]

What I must say is that I do care for cpu limited res 1024x768 with AA/AF very much.
While my system does pretty well on 12x10 or 16x12 I'm dissapointed with perf at 10x7.
The fact is that I've consider o/c as an option. But due to poor mem (Kingston pc3200 cl3) I have to ran at 5:4 to see a good o/c boost. Otherwise at 1:1, I will be at 3.1ghz max.
I don't consider 300MHz a nice boost for o/c. Will 5:4 timings and say a 600MHz boost be better than 1:1 and 200-300MHz boost?

 

[Kenazo]

Originally posted by: jim1976
What I must say is that I do care for cpu limited res 1024x768 with AA/AF very much.
While my system does pretty well on 12x10 or 16x12 I'm dissapointed with perf at 10x7.
The fact is that I've consider o/c as an option. But due to poor mem (Kingston pc3200 cl3) I have to ran at 5:4 to see a good o/c boost. Otherwise at 1:1, I will be at 3.1ghz max.
I don't consider 300MHz a nice boost for o/c. Will 5:4 timings and say a 600MHz boost be better than 1:1 and 200-300MHz boost?

yes

 

[jim1976]

Originally posted by: Kenazo

Originally posted by: jim1976
What I must say is that I do care for cpu limited res 1024x768 with AA/AF very much.
While my system does pretty well on 12x10 or 16x12 I'm dissapointed with perf at 10x7.
The fact is that I've consider o/c as an option. But due to poor mem (Kingston pc3200 cl3) I have to ran at 5:4 to see a good o/c boost. Otherwise at 1:1, I will be at 3.1ghz max.
I don't consider 300MHz a nice boost for o/c. Will 5:4 timings and say a 600MHz boost be better than 1:1 and 200-300MHz boost?

yes

Thankz for the help ppl. I do consider if that's true, o/c as an option

Money is an issue but stability is another. Keep it comin

 

[jpeyton]

my recommendations here:

http://forums.anandtech.com/messageview.cfm?catid=27&threadid=1371717&enterthread=y

 

[jim1976]

Originally posted by: jpeyton
my recommendations here:

http://forums.anandtech.com/messageview.cfm?catid=27&threadid=1371717&enterthread=y

That's a very nice thread. Congrats for the research man

But it would be good if someone can help me with my questions

 

[SneakyStuff]

Just oc it, upgrading would be a waste, and I doubt you'd notice it much.

 

[Trey22]

Here's another vote to attempt a good overclock on that 2.8c.

 

[jim1976]

Ok the most probable thing is that I'll o/c, as most of you said and you're right.
But if I decide to proceed with a purchase, what's your opinion?