E8600 or Q9550

[ridley76]

Hello,
I currently have Windows 7 32bit, GTX 470, 3.2GB ram, Intel E7600 CPU and Nvidia 3d vision. I play games and occasionally edit HD Avchd onto Blu-ray discs. Should I go for a Core 2 duo E8600 or a Core 2 quad Q9550.
Someone told me that a Quad core CPU needs a 64bit OS as it needs more ram.However someone recently said that it isn't necessary.However I don't know whether the E8600 is a big enough leap from my E7600 to justify the price. Can someone help. Thanks.

 

[geekapproved]

Definitely the Q9550.

No you don't need 64bit OS but why someone would buy Win7 in 32bit is a mystery to me.
Someone was telling you to take advantage of all your ram you need 64bit os, 32bit only sees 3.2gb.

 

[ridley76]

Hello,
Thanks for your help. I've looked at the link provided and agree that the Q9550 is the better option. I brought genuine Windows 7 with both 32 and 64 bit disc in the case but chose 32 bit as I have hardware installed that doesn't have 64 bit drivers.
Thanks

 

[cadder]

I use 2 computers daily- one a quad core and one a dual core. I like the quad core better although the dual core is faster in some apps. For you- in some games and some video processing the quad core is definitely an advantage.

Either processor will run the 32 bit OS or the 64 bit OS, the OS version is up to you, and mainly depends on how much ram your apps need.

But as has been mentioned, unless you can get the Q9550 for real cheap, you would be better off to spend more and get the latest i7.

 

[jsc]

No ...
Save your money and upgrade to i5-2500K.