it is rumored that the tri cores are just quad cores with a defective core. the phenoms are definitely not bad CPUs, but as the OP said, you get more for your money with intel. if you like AMD and dont mind spending the money then go for it, but if you want a good price/performance ratio with AMD, stick with the lower end dual cores.
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CPU || e8400
RAM || 2GB corsair xms2 pc6400 800mhz
HDD || 2x WD Raptor 150GB 2x WD 500GB
MBO || EVGA 680i SE
GPU || Evga 8800GT Superclocked w/ Accelero
PSU || Silverstone 750 watt
Case|| Antec p182
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