950 is cheaper than 930?? Need advice ASAP!

[m1ddy]

Guys,

My new rig should of arrived today but just been told they are out of stock of the 930 D0's. I have the option of getting a 950 instead...which for some reason is slightly cheaper.....?

Is this because of the stepping?

The two parts are:

Intel Core i7 950 Bloomfield 45nm, 3.06 GHz, QPI 4.8GT/s, 8MB Cache, 23x Ratio, 130W, Retail - £216.40

instead of

Intel Core i7 930 D0 SLBKP Bloomfield 45nm, 2.8 GHz, QPI 4.8GT/s, 8MB Cache, 20x Ratio, 130W, Retail £218.75

I can only assume its due to the stepping, which would only matter if I plan to overclock?

Can someone let me know ASAP so I can get them to ship it ASAP.

Thanks Guys

 

[4745454b]

I'd take it. Better is better and if you aren't planning on OCing this is great for you.

 

[m1ddy]

Cool thanks. If I do plan to OC in the future, will the fact its not D0 stepping hinder me in anyway?

 

[4745454b]

It will drop you a few 100 MHz on avg. For example (if I remember correctly) the B3 stepping of the Q6600 would good to about 3.4-3.6, while the G0 was good to 3.8-4.0. The other down side is you'll need more voltage to get that high. Or with the newer stepping less voltage for the same speed.

 

[m1ddy]

If I do OC I wont be going must past 3.6 anyway so I guess thats great. Just very strange that the stepping can make such a difference in price as it makes the 950 cheaper! Scan.co.uk dont seem to sell the 950 D0 anyway

 

[4745454b]

If you OC, a better steeping is worth some money, but the 950 is better due to the higher multiplier. I personally wouldn't pay much for the better stepping. Its not like your going to OC a 1GHz higher.

 

[m1ddy]

Thanks..Ive changed my order and it should be with me tomorrow morning

i7 950
6GB Corsair 7-7-7-2
Geforce 470
Corsair 650w PSU
ASUS P6X58D-E MoBo
Coolermaster Sniper case