More information for quad-core shoppers

Quad-core processor shopping? There's a saying among automotive enthusiasts that goes something like, “How fast do you want to go? Well, how much do you want to spend?” I don't think anyone would argue that it applies to high-end computers as well.

When it comes to configuring a multi-thousand-dollar, high-end desktop, which will undoubtedly have some kind of quad-core processor configuration, there are now several more choices available. Dell has now added Intel’s Core 2 Quad QC6600 processor as an option on all but the most basic configuration of its XPS 710 game desktop. Alienware has also adopted the processor. The Dell 710 starts at $2,639, based on the most basic configuration I could configure on Dell’s site, but will cost much more if you add extra RAM, hard drive, graphics and a monitor. Alienware is asking $2,999 its Area-51 7500 SLI desktop with the quad-core chip installed. Gateway's FX530 is also in the mix. (As an aside, these prices have me wondering how many users will simply build their own or wait until quad-core chips become more mainstream.)

Still wondering why someone would or possibly should pony up the extra $800 upgrade for Intel's Core 2 Quad versus its Core 2 Duo, aside from saving $200 or so over Intel's Core 2 Extreme QX6700? The Tech Report has published a 13-page evaluation of five different quad-core platforms, including the Core 2 Quad, the QX6700 extreme chip and AMD’s Quad FX platform. (Link: Here.) The article, published today, offers insights into areas where the processors perform well and other areas where they don't. It then puts it all in perspective by concluding that, while dual-cores processors work well for most, right now, “There's something to be said for quad-core rigs, if you know you'll put those cores to good use.”