Is there any real difference between a64 and a64fx chips? (besides gigahertz rating)

[gamer1000k]

I'm thinking about getting a 3700+ (cheapest cpu with san diego core). Is there any advantage to having an FX processor, or is that just used to maket the high-end a64s?

 

[SynthDude2001]

Functionally, the only big difference (other than the obvious differences in clock frequency between the models, as you noted) is unlocked multipliers... If you're looking at a San Diego core, those already have the 1MB L2 cache that the FX chips have.

 

[theMan]

the difference is, that your multi will be locked at 11, but you can go below that, just not above.. on the fx, the multi will go higher than you will ever want.

 

[gamer1000k]

does this make a difference when overclocking?

 

[MDE]

Not really, as long as you use a good motherboard. Save the cash from an FX and buy a better video card, PSU, or RAM.

 

[gamer1000k]

does the asus a8n-sli deluxe overclock well enough to get the 3700+ to at least 2.5 ghz?

 

[MDE]

I don't see why it wouldn't. You would only have to hit a 230HTT speed for 2.5GHz, and 230 is almost expected from any A64 board.

 

[boran]

in general it's better to OC with lowering the MP and increasing the FSB so I dont see how a top-level locked multiplier can harm much. unless offcourse your FSB hits a wall.