AMD adds new flagship Athlon 64 X2 processors 5400+, 5600+

The new Athlon 64 X2 processors from AMD, the 5400+ and 5600+, bring an increase of clock speed and are strategically aimed at Intel's Core 2 Duo processors. "What makes these two processors interesting is not the fact that AMD was able squeeze more clock speed out of Toledo - at 89 watts, which remains level with the 90 nm 5200+ and 5000+ - but the fact that these are strategically important CPUs for AMD. If you were to spend about $500 for a new processor, and you were open to any processor available today, then Intel's Core 2 Duo 6700 was the obvious choice. While we do not have the performance numbers of the X2s yet, AMD feels confident enough to price the 5400+ and 5600+ right against the E6700. Intel's fastest mainstream processor currently lists for a tray-price of $530 (retail: $525), while AMD charges $485 for the 5400+ and $505 for the 5600+. At least from that perspective, AMD is able to place itself again in the very lucrative segment of $400+ mainstream CPUs."