AMD has just launched a new consumer orientated Phenom II CPU with a hefty 6 cores. My early impressions of the chip have been extremely positive. Not only does it add an extra two new cores to the already fantastic Phenom II CPU, but at it also runs noticeably cooler than the 4 core Phenom IIs we have played with. <\/p>\n
It is shaping up to be a very powerful overclocker, and its new “Turbo Core” technology allows it to switch seamlessly between 3 and 6 cores, depending on CPU load. <\/p>\n
The new Phenom II 6X CPUs will work on existing AM3 and AM2+ motherboards (with proper bios support), which makes upgrading fairly easy for anyone that has bought a motherboard in the last year or so. <\/p>\n
In conjunction with these 6 core beasts, AMD has launched its new 8-series motherboards. <\/p>\n
Local pricing and availability<\/strong><\/p>\n The first batch of Phenom II X6 CPUs have already shipped, and should be available at most retailers already, and if not then in the next week or so. Initial availability will be scarce, but AMD SA expects this to improve with subsequent shipments. <\/p>\n The recommended prices are as follows<\/p>\n Phenom II X6 1090T 3.2GHz Black Edition – R3299 (Prophecy lists it for R3007, pending availability)<\/p>\n Phenom II X6 1055T 2.8 GHz – R2299 (Prophecy lists it for R2069, pending availability)<\/p>\n Our full review of the CPU is on its way, watch this space. <\/p>\n