We just got official word from Intel that they are going to be releasing a new quad-core processor in early January.  The Core 2 Quad Q6600 will run at 2.4 GHz with a 1066 MHz FSB and 8M of cache total.  The TDP of the new CPU will be 105 watts and the default voltage is 1.325v. 

Intel® Core™2 Quad processor Q6600 (formerly codenamed Kentsfield)

  • Multimedia powerhouse for demanding entertainment
  • Ideal choice for processor intensive, highly-threaded applications
  • Enjoy gaming at a new level with the performance of quad-core
  • The new Core 2 Quad microprocessor Q6600 (2.4GHz) — available Jan 8 at $851 in 1KU quantities.  (price/date NDA til Jan 8)

·       Intel Corporation formally introduced its sixth quad-core processor, and the first to carry the Intel® Core™2 Quad processor brand name that begins the expansion of quad-core PC sales to mainstream buyers.

·       Whether it’s high definition entertainment or creating more secure data centers, compute needs are spiraling. Intel’s powerful yet power-saving multicore processors best address these growing needs.

·       Intel’s investment in manufacturing technology, chip factories and software developer programs provide a strategic advantage that is letting us deliver powerful yet energy efficient processors faster to market and in a range of prices that ensure broad adoption.

·       As well as a smoother multi-tasking experience, there are a wide range of applications that will take advantage of quad core processors.  This includes: Creativity: Adobe After Effects 7/8, Premiere Pro 2/3.0, Encore DVD 2.+, MaxonCinema 4D v10, Pinnacle Studio dv 10, Video: Sony Media SW, Sony Vegas 7.0, Music: Steinberg- Yamaha Cubase v4.5, Games: THQ/Gas Powered, Supreme Commander, THQ Supreme Commander, Remedy Alan Wake, Valve Half-Life 2: Episode 2, Epic Unreal Engine 3, Ubisoft Splinter Cell: Double Agent, Additional Creativity/DCC: Autodesk 3DSMAX 8 and 3DSMAX 9, Adobe Photoshop CS2, Quicktime Pro 7.1, XMPEG with DIVX 6.2, DVD Shrink 3.2, Pov Ray 3.7 Beta, TMPGEnc 2.524