Originally posted by: Concillian
Generally this means there isn't demand for the CPU. Open task manager (<CTRL> + <SHIFT> + <ESC> ) and look at CPU graphs. If the CPU isn't pegged, it will use a lower multi.
As soon as you do something that taxes the CPU, like Prime95 or whatever, the CPU usage should jump to max out one core and your speed should be whatever your normal speed.
I don't think there's anything to be alarmed about here, this is just your power savings features doing their job. The applications you listed have the capability of taxing your CPU, but they tend to do so in spurts between long idle periods. I suspect you are monitoring speed during a CPU idle period. Use a CPU program to diagnose more fully.