Updating to dual core, but which one?

[GungSeng]

I posted this earlier in the overclocking megathread, but go no answer

Hi guys

Im thinking about updating my trusty 3200+ to a dual core model 'cos of Vista coming and Half-Life 2 will get multi core support along with Episode 2.

I was thinking about Opteron 170 ( 2.0 GHz, 939 of course) since I can get it for pretty cheap (209€).

Currently my 3200+ is rock solid at 2.5 GHz (FSB:MEM - 1:1), but I would like to have the opteron at least at 2.5 GHz as well. Preferably above, of course.

You guys think this is a good idea?

Peace

[GrimReaper]

yup get the opteron 170 really good you might also need 2GB ram

[acrobuddy]

or the Opteron 165 is cheaper, unless you get a really terrible stepping it will hit 2.5ghz and even higher with good cooling, most steppings hit 2.7ghz easily.

[GungSeng]

Thanks for the info

I was thinking about 2gb ram too, but now I have to decide which one to get

[akaBruno]

Buy a 165 Opty from someone who moves a lot of chips. That way you'll get a good recent stepping, and be hitting close to 3G.

[acrobuddy]

For a 165 newegg recently dropped their prices again back to $160 with free shipping, seems to be good steppings coming from them too lately.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16819103588

[en4cer]

If I were you, I would get a Opty 165 from newegg first and then plan on getting a good 2gig set of ram shortly after. I just bought a 165 from newegg about a week ago and It does 3GHz (334x9 @ 1.52v) SP2004 stable for 24hrs. I think you will be amazed at the difference in performance

[Philly_Boy]

I posted this earlier in the overclocking megathread, but go no answer

I would absolutely recommend the Opty 170!! You can snag a used one for $150-$175 or a new one from New Egg for $185. I own one and it did 2.78ghz on air (CNPS9500) and 3.08 ghz on high end water (see sig). This CPU will give you 85%-90% of what a FX-60 will for cheap!