Dual Core

[Joe3140]

I know this is probably a stupid question but say I buy a dual core processer that says it runs at 2.8GHz. That's like having a 5.6GHz single core right? Because my current CPU is a single 3.4GHz. I want to buy a new one and I want to know if this is actually any better.

[0=]

It depends. Most applications only utilize one core, with the exception of video and audio editing programs, and some new games. In a game that only utilizes one core it will run more slowly. Unless you have the newest games or you need to do some serious editng you don't really need to upgrade. If you want to run single core games with better graphics consider a better video card.

[Underage_Thinker]

Hypothetically if a program was utilizing both cores simultaneously you would. But as 0= (sorry can't remember your name) said very few programs take advantage of both cores. They only send one thread of data and thus only one core is used.

[0=]

Another consideration if you just need a tiny bit more processor power for those 2 extra frames per second would be purchasing a high quality sound card. It would remove all audio processing load from the CPU and increase the overall sound quality. It wouldn't help as much as a better video card, but it would be cheaper and provide sound benefits.

[Joe3140]

Yeah I have a 256Mb geforce 7300 and a soundblaster. Thanks for the info guys.