AMD took the opportunity to launch its new enthusiast platform 4×4 while we were busy at DreamHack. Two processors with two cores each (=4) and the possibility to run up to 4 graphics cards at the same time. 4×4 is suppose to be AMD’s answer to Intel’s Kentsfield, which both have been accused of mainly being two big PR stunts. Kentsfield has been released though and has been able to deliver good performance, which means that now it’s time for AMD’s quad-version to show what it can do. Unfortunately it turns out that 4×4 can’t measure up to Kentsfield.
“In other words, AMD Quad FX will most likely appeal only to the most dedicated AMD fans. For everyone else this platform will most likely be none other but a unique desktop system prototype showing the possibility (or maybe even uselessness) of introducing AMD’s server technologies into the desktop sector. Although we cannot deny that the upcoming AMD processors based on promising K8L micro-architecture will give new meaning to the exciting Quad FX concept.” – Xbit labs
The more you dig the closer you get to the fact that AMD has to have something more coming because 4×4 isn’t even close to being any kind of enthusiast platform for anyone but the extreme AMD fanboys, which is a real shame, I have to say. No one wants a single dominating actor, especially when AMD used to be the enthusiast’s choice.
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