I just realized this...in their video on the website, it shows the 'processor' and explains that there are 12-core options, but they are only referring to a single-CPU Ivy Bridge chip. From what it looks like...Apple will not be offering a dual-CPU model.
12-core single chip will be the top option.
Looks like Apple dropped the ball on this one.
This is a natural progression for the new Mac Mini Pro. It certainly does have more in common with the Mini than the MP.
Given that this new machine breaks ranks, Apple may be testing the waters before releasing something even more powerful/expensive to see if they should continue the line. Apple praises itself and this single chip machines as being up to 2.5x faster than the fasted MP presently available. That is not a bad start.
If the price isn't too crazy (sigh), I may buy one to replace a Mac Mini. I have not had an MP for a long while but I do understand the concern for some professional to be able to get a faster more powerful system. I am far more concerned that when it comes out, it will have USB3 and the new USB3 will come out (much faster) as well as having to deal with Thunderbolt 2.x.