I just set up a new machine and have it working on WCG.
The thing is this isn't what I usually go for.
It only has one socket.
It's one of the upcoming Intel Sandy Bridge systems and we all know how antsy Intel gets when people post benchmarks before they release the product so I'll just talk in generalities for now.
My interest in this was aroused when I heard that these SB chips had VERY good computational power despite the fact that they are really designed as mid level chips to replace the P55 line( i7-860,I7-870,etc)
Then I heard they "would clock to the moon and on air" and that REALLY made me want to check them out.( K models only as the non K models are locked and besides, the only one you want is the 2600K)
The rumors were true.
Now add in what is the one issue with what we do that effects every one of us? Electrical usage.
The rule has always been that if you wanted a machine with top computational power it was also a power hog.
Not any more and without showing numbers I mean WOW, I almost fell down when I looked at my kill a watt meter and wondered if it was broken.
YES, THAT good electrical efficiency.
Now price is also an issue and again, this one is a winner.
Top SB 2600k chip will be $317.00, Found a decent spec'd Gigabyte P67 UD5 board selling for $231.00, add in another $100.00 or less for 2x2 gig DDR3-1333 and for $648.00 you have your base system.
Add a top HS which is the smart move for another $50.00 and your at $700.00
This will be available the first part of January 2011 and folks, if your smart, start saving your money.
That's all I can say for now but read between the lines and think on this.
I PROMISE you won't be disappointed.
One last thing: I have no affiliation with Intel in any way and they do not provide me with any hardware.
I wish they would but thats another story.
I'm sharing this for one simple reason: It is a way to get more work done and cut down the huge electrical bills I have and many of you do also.
Thanks for reading