is the C2D worth it?

[interlaced]

I'm currently rockin the 2.16ghz Core Duo MBP. I'm wondering if it's worth it to get the C2D Macbook Pro? Let's say I can take advantage of a discount where it'll only end up costing me a few hundred more for the "upgrade".

I'd be using it for my typical Mail, Safari/Firefox, Adium, iCal in addition to Photoshop, Illlustrator, FCP and DVD Studio Pro. Also for schoolwork with Office and iWork.

I want a computer that will last a while. I could definitely use the DL Superdrive and the FW800, for sure.

I'd love any thoughts.

 

[gr8tfly]

I have a friend in the same boat. He's on waiting list for 17" MBP C2D. Although he does like having the latest and greatest, I think the processor upgrade, DL drive and FW-800 are enough. I'm sure you've seen some of the benchmarks of CD vs. C2D. It's 10% minimum, and quite a bit more on some of the more intensive apps. I suppose it depends on how much encoding/rendering you do, as to whether the C2D will payoff.

I'm going from a PBG4 17" 1.67, so I'm really moving up. I've been holding off for the new chip, but it's been hard, especially starting to do a bunch of video. I've persoanlly measured 4x speed difference on video encode between the G4 and 2.16 CD (ffmpeg), so I've been chomping at the bit. But, if I already had a CD, I probably would wait a bit, since I generally don't upgrade but every couple years. (I've had the PBG4 since March 2005)

 

[interlaced]

Yeah, I'd probably gain a lil bit when encoding and stuff. The processor upgrade, FW800, and DL drive sound like they'd be worth it if I want this to last a few more years. Yeah I don't usually upgrade for a few years but those couple of extras seem like they should be worth it.

 

[dmw007]

A MacBook Pro C2D would last you for quite some time, but so will your current MBP.


Not sure it is worth the cost to upgrade for you unless you can get a good selling price for your current notebook.

 

[slackersonly]

if it will only cost you a couple hundred and you have that money available for this, i would do it.

 

[Hunts121]

I would say its not worth it (based on your current system) until the santa rosa chipset comes out. Which will include a faster FSB among other things. Also its likely the graphics chip will be upgraded then as well.

just my 2 cents

 

[bodeh6]

I would think it is not worth it right now. Once Santa Rosa laptops come out next spring or some time around that time, those should provide a better upgrade then the C2D.

 

[interlaced]

thanks for all the advice. so i guess i'm sticking with this until the next upgrade.

 

[gadgetgirl85]

thanks for all the advice. so i guess i'm sticking with this until the next upgrade.

Good plan Next upgrade should be good

 

[arbitrarycode]

Don't have a MBP CD, but

Never owned the CD, but I just go the MBP C2D today and must say it runs COOL! It is cooler than my iBook G4 and a Sony Vaio Pentium M. It gives off a barely perceptible warmth (through jeans), even after 4 hours of constant use.

Something to consider if you have heat issues.