Which, base model, is the value model?

[Jas123]

2.93 Quad or 2.26 Octad? Assuming any additions to the "base" would be done regardless of choice.

 

[thegame46]

I think your quad. the 2.26 version I think is the worst deal, followed by the 2.66 quad when you compare to what the hardware is worth. see my post search
(shopping comparisons)

 

[aibo]

I'd say the Octo 2.26, since I don't see the value in paying $2500 for a machine limited to 8GB RAM. No future proofing there.