Intel Core 2 Quad Q6600 / 2.4 GHz processor

If you want to get a good fast processor for a PC, this is it. You will want to take advantage of the 64-bit architecture, but it will still run 32-bit windows. I am running 64-bit XP (vista is still dog food) with 8GB of dual channel DDR2 ram, and I am amazed at how awesome this processor is.

Keep it cool, and you should be able to do some over clocking. I turned my ASUS auto overclocking off since I really dont need to over clock (& void the warranty).

I'm not going to dock any points for the cooler, since a better one is only really needed if your planning to overclock.

My dad got a Dell Inspiron 530 with the Intel Core 2 Quad Q6600 processor (Intel jingle!) back in 2007. The Desktop got very good marks in proccessing power but stunk in graphics. I just learned htis particular model has 129 minor bugs, but I haven't yet noticed.

Updated on Apr 13, 2009

Oops! I meant to say Tower of Power not Power of Tower

Updated on Oct 13, 2009

I have a Dell Dimension 4600 with a 2.4 GHz Pentium 4 w/512 KB L2 cahce and a 533 MHz FSB (the core is Northwood), but this Core 2 Quad (using the Kentsfield core) kills it in any application.