My understanding of the AMD vs Intel bit is this: AMD is a great value processor with very competitive benchmarks at lower core voltages.....it's a great gaming proc. Intel however is generally the more expensive cpu....and is geared mostly to computational functions. Intel has released a 533Mhz FSB not sure about AMD yet......but if your a home user and cannot afford a RISC processor it's the next best thing. If you use Maya exclusively....I would go Intel If you use Maya and Game etc....go AMD I am an AMD advocate....partly because I can get the same performance for a cheaper price.