Should I go with the 2800+ or wait for the opteron?

[IBdaMac]

I want to buy a new processor but I haven't successfully found a release date on the opteron. I don't know if I should wait for
the opteron or should I just buy the 350 dollar 2800+ now. Is there enough programs out there that are going to be able to
take advantage of the 64bit processor? What do you guys think?

 

[MrC4]

Is there enough programs out there that are going to be able to take advantage of the 64bit processor?

My best guess is that it will take a good year or two before you would see 64 bit software in significant supply. Plus, I have a hunch that an Opteron will set you back quite a bit more than $350 upon release in Q2!

 

[IBdaMac]

So I guess the 2800+ and a new 333mhz fsb board would be the way to go..

How well does the Opteron or the Athlon 64 perform on 32bit programs? I think I read that they will run at a much lower clock speed.
Who knows, it's probably not worth the wait anway.

 

[MrC4]

So I guess the 2800+ and a new 333mhz fsb board would be the way to go

It is my understanding that you need at least a KT400 or NForce2 board for the 2800+. I personally would go with a NForce2 board as they are more stable and offer higher performance than the Via KT400 chipset.

 

[MrC4]

How well does the Opteron or the Athlon 64 perform on 32bit programs?

The Opteron is going to smoke through 32 bit apps. The initial performance rating should be 3200+ for the early Opterons, but you will pay a steep price for the added performance!

 

[ErikaeanLogic]

IMHO, you should go with the Nforce2 and a $55 T-bred B chip now, and upgrade in a couple of months to a Barton. Not what you asked, I know, but I'm here to keep it fresh😛.



Good luck!

Erik

 

[Soulkeeper]

I agree with the last guy