New system, can't decide on a processor

[Person]

Hello everyone!
I'm currently planning to build a new PC with my limited budget. I can't seem to decide on a processor I should pick. Not really what brand but because of what other components I will be able to pick up later. I really want to go with AMD Athlon 64, because then I can use the nForce SLI board, which is really nice for future upgradeability (because of the two cards). But then again Intel has some very nice processors too. I can't seem to decide what to buy. Should I go with AMD and SLI, or go with P4 3.4E GHz.
Two products im considering:
p4 3.40E GHz
Atholn 64 3500+
Choosing the processor will greatly affect the other components I get so I would appreciate any help :beard:.
Thanks! :beard:

 

[chrisgill369]

well if you want the computer for gaming gor fo an AMD64 if not get a P4

 

[TheMajor]

I would go for the AMD, even if its not for gaming, because its 64bit

 

[Person]

What about the cache of both those (p4 having twice as much L2)? Will that make a big difference for gaming and and some very processor intensive tasks?
Also, which core should I look for if going AMD?

 

[TheMajor]

Clawhammer 90nm, and get a mobo that supports the 90nm version, or just get the 130nm version.

The cache will make some difference, but I would get the AMD, cause it will run 64bit apps/OS in the future.

 

[Person]

All I can see from ClawHammers that is cheaper than $680 )) are socket 754 CPUs. Won't support SLI motherboards as far as I can see . What about the Newcastle core? Or Winchester?

 

[TheMajor]

Ooops..... the 90nm is Winchester

I would get the Winchester 90nm or Newcastle 130nm.
The Winchester has problems on some mobo's requiring a BIOS flash. Make sure the board supports it. Post on TF to ask. The Winchester runs cooler thean the Newastle.

The Clawhammers are only 754 or FX cpu's.

 

[Person]

Ok, .
How about this little combo?
CPU and mobo
Its a 3500+ Newcastle and ASUS SLI mobo.

 

[chrisgill369]

will a winchester core work on a ASUS A8V ... http://www.ebuyer.com/customer/prod...2hvd19wcm9kdWN0X292ZXJ2aWV3&product_uid=72725

its a socket 939 mobo so i would have thought so but just checking.

 

[TheMajor]

Ok, .
How about this little combo?
CPU and mobo
Its a 3500+ Newcastle and ASUS SLI mobo.

looks nice

chrisgill369, I don't know.. I would post a new thread