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macrumors 6502a
Original poster
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.
 
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)
 
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.
 
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. 🙂
 
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😉
 
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.
 
thanks for all the advice. so i guess i'm sticking with this until the next upgrade. 😀
 
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.
 
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