k8 or k9

K9 was a dual core project that was cancelled long ago. I believe the existing X2s were its replacement.

AM2 is using the existing K8 architecture. The only major difference was switching out the DDR controller for a DDR2 one. AMD's next new architecture is K8L and will be a revision of K8. It will be out in 2007. A completely new design won't occur until K10 (which was delayed or cancelled a while back) or it's replacement appears in 2008.

While LC Data is correct, MSI has taken to calling thier AM2 board K9.
What most people overlook on AM2 is the decrease of latency on the HTT link, and in memory.
While the perf gain wont be huge, it will be equal to an aditional 100 to 150 mhz.
Since the HTT/ODMC limits have been holding OCing back, Amd should also gain some margin in max speed.
I wont be an early adaptor, but given 3 months to mature, I like the look of that platform.