Intel has been enjoying a rather successful few years. After the launch of their first generation Core processors Intel managed to slide neatly by AMD who had been running rings around the Pentium 4 CPU. Things did not stop there though, Intel continued to build on their success working to improve their caching model and the when they were finally ready they dropped the Second Generation of the Core Processor on the Market; this time with an Internal Memory Controller to go with their improved caching. This extended the gap between Intel and AMD a few more feet and lead on to other new products including Lynnfield and then Sandy Bridge with its own GPU built right into the processor die. With the success of these new processors Intel could have just sat back and waited until AMD caught up. Instead they are continuing to move forward and are now brining a new Flagship CPU to the Core i7 lineup. The official name will be the Core i7 3960X and also comes with a new chipset, memory standard, and socket. So let’s take a look at this new chuck of silicone and see if it deserves its place at the top of the heap.
Test System and CommentsComments -Our testing was all performed on Intel’s reference X79SI motherboard. We also used a Beta BIOS that was supplied by Intel for this launch. Normally we do not like to test with a BIOS that is not a general release as it is not what the consumer will see when they buy the product. However, as this is a CPU review and not a review of the motherboard (that is another article) we will look past that for now.
We also did not use the same cooling that we have used with other CPU reviews. Typically we like to stick with the stock coolers that you would get in the retail box. This time, Intel supplied their new high-performance water cooling setup (which is made by Asetek). This cooling rig seemed pretty effective even when we were overclocking (although I am not sure it would take overclocking on a 24/7 basis). We are happy that Intel is considering offering this with the new Core i7 3960X as it shows they know what this will be used for (and that they know it can generate some heat). One final comment before we head into the testing results; you will notice that there is not an AMD FX (Bulldozer) CPU present. This is because AMD chose not to send one out during or after the launch if their newest CPU. We also have not had the chance to pick one up ourselves. However, we are working getting one so that we can include these performance numbers for you. We have left the Phenom II x6 numbers in place so you can see the differences there.
