Final AM2 upgrade - need cpu advice

[TheAdvocate]

As AM2 CPU's are beginning to disappear, it's probably time for my final cpu upgrade for my aging Shuttle SN27P2 box.

It's an everything box - HTPC, surfing, gaming (will be using it for BF1943 & SC2), etc.

Right now, I've pushed the RAM to 4GB DDR2 which is a bit wasted with my XP install, and I'm running a 9800 GT which is about the max I think the 400W SilentX PSU can handle.

My current CPU is an X2 4200+ 65W - which I think makes it a Brisbane core.

I haven't kept up with this stuff at all.

Question: Am I better off with something like a 125W X2 6000+ which is the old 90nm Windsor core (and therefore larger L2 cache), or should I get something like a Brisbane X2 5600+ 65W but smaller L2 cache (and a clock improvement from 2.2GHz to 2.9Ghz)? Or is the performance boost of either not worth the effort?

I'm not going to toss out the Shuttle box - so Im stuck with the AM2 and PSU limitations.

Thanks in advance for help.

 

[veri745]

Isn't 125W a bit much for a shuttle case? What kind of cooling can you muster in that thing?

This is about best case for the performance improvement you're going to see with a 5600+ Brisbane: http://www.anandtech.com/bench/default.aspx?p=30&p2=38
It's decent, and it will only set you back about $60. How much can you OC your 4200+?

BTW, it really sucks that you can't stick one of the new Athlon II X2 or Phenom II X2 chips in it.

 

[just4U]

It might be possible to throw a 7850 in there no? I mean sure .. the board can't handle PII's but it might take those.. yes / no?

Aside from that I'd say the 5600 would be your best bet. Altho there is a 6000+ out that is lower wattage but mmm it's a bit pricey.