Duel Core processors

[Deano777]

Hi all

I am looking to replace my base unit for a new one, a couple of years ago I used to be clued right up on everything PC related, but since my subscription to Computer Shopper lapsed, and I spent less & less time browsing about PCs my knowledge has somewhat wained.
So in light of me wanting a new base unit can someone recommend what is the middle of the road Duel core processor? I have seen 1.8GHz on the market etc, but I am currently running an AMD 3000XP which I think runs at about 2.1GHz?

I am looking at a Core 2 Duo E4600, any good?

Some advice would be great

D777

[cats_five]

PC Pro magazine had a big test of processors in the last edition. Their website always lags, but it should be there soon.

www.pcpro.co.uk (http://www.pcpro.co.uk)

[Bushfiva]

Core 2 Duo E4600, any good?

Yup, fine. One of the E6xxx would be a tad finer. In my neck of the woods an E6600 costs about 40% more than an E4600 for a system maybe 10% faster in normal use, so I'd go with the E4600. Since you're moving from 3000XP either would provide a good speed bump. If you're a gamer, definitely the slower CPU and spend the difference on a better graphics card. If you're not a gamer, well, still the E4600 :-)

[Deano777]

Thanks guys, appreciated.

Bushfiva

I am looking at a Dell Inspiron 530, I have customised it to the following spec, (upgraded processor to the one below from what I first stated)

Processor - Intel® Core™ 2 Duo E8200 processor (2.66GHz, 1333MHz, 6MB cache)
Memory - 3072MB 667MHz Dual Channel DDR2 SDRAM [2x1024+2x512]
HDD - 500GB (7200rpm) SATA Hard Drive
Graphics Card - 256MB ATI® Radeon™ HD 2600 XT graphics card

I do play 2 games, one is Counter Strike, the other being Flight Sim (When I'm not sick of my job), does this spec seem ok?

Thanks for your time

Dean

[Saab Dastard]

Dual processors are what intel and AMD make.

Processor Duel is what intel and and AMD engage in.

:)

SD

[Bushfiva]

Sorry, I don't know anything about Counter Strike performance with ATI. But the spec seems fine.