Mac Pro/8-Core Xeon 2.26GHz
The first update to Apple's high-end desktop in more than a year features a new system architecture along with Nehalem versions of Intel's Xeon processors. Nehalem is the code-name Intel has given a new micro-processor architecture that features on-chip power management and a memory controller that's integrated on the processor for faster access to data stored in memory. This system features a pair of quad-core 2.26GHz processors, though upgrade options abound.
| Reviewed | Full Review |
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The new Mac Pros, with their cutting-edge Nehalem processor technology, are able to execute more tasks at a faster clip, despite lower processor speeds. And their new internal design makes adding hard drives, memory cards, and PCI Express 2.0 cards easier than ever. That said, this model was out-performed by the 2.66GHz quad-core Mac Pro, which costs $300 less.
Pros: New Nehalem microprocessor; easier to upgrade internal components; lower price.
Cons: Most routine apps perform better with fewer, faster processors.
Basics
Reviewed Price: $3,299
Processor: 2 2.26GHz Quad-Core Intel Xeon 5500 processors
Lab Tests
| Speedmark 6 Score | 206 |
|---|---|
| Cinema 4D XL XL 10.5 | 0:13 |
| iMovie HD 6 | 0:34 |
| iTunes 7.5 | 0:47 |
| Photoshop CS3 | 0:36 |
| Compressor | 0:57 |
| Quake 4 | 70.8fps |
| Tested Configuration | Mac OS X 10.5.6 with 6GB of RAM |
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