CPU Suggestions and Amount of Cores?

For starters, I'm running an MSI P7n Diamond MB, Intel, socket 775 capable of handling a cpu with 1333 fsb. Currently I'm using a very outdated Intel P4 3.0 ghz single core and and looking to upgrade. I'm interested in knowing how multi-core cpus work differently between 2 and 4 cores. For example, say there was a Dual core 3.0ghz processor that was the same price as a 2.5ghz quad core, both with the same amount of cache. Which would be better for me if all I do is game and photo editing? I'm looking to spend no more than $150 pref., but would go up to $200 for the right piece of hardware. So, what info can you guys throw my way?

Thanks in advance!

The quad core would be better, in terms of cores more = better. But, the higher the L2 and on the higher end CPU's L3 the faster it will run as it can store calculations for use later.

The way multi core works is, 1 core can focus on say video playback and another core can focus on baground tasks, in gaming all the cores work together.

Fluffy said:

in gaming all the cores work together.

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That's taking into account that the game is written for multiple cores. Many games are not.

Thanks for the replies pparks1 and fluffy. Anyone aware if WoW is capable of using multiple cores?

Also I forgot to ask in my original post, but If I use 32bit atm and go to a 64bit capable processor, do I have to reinstall my entire OS or is it simply something I can alter in my Bios or such? Thanks

I haven't played WOW, so I can't say for sure on that one, but I suspect that it would be capable. Other members should be able to confirm this one way or the other.

As for the 32-bit/64-bit OS question, you will need to install the appropriate version (obviously, you will need a 64-bit processor for a 64-bit OS).

I personally made the experience that an average quad core is no better than a faster duo core - just because of the stated argument that there are not masses of programs that support quad (including the OS). Since I have both, I got a good feel for it.
And yes, you will have to reinstall if you want to go from 32 to 64bit.

whs said:

I personally made the experience that an average quad core is no better than a faster duo core - just because of the stated argument that there are not masses of programs that support quad (including the OS). Since I have both, I got a good feel for it.
And yes, you will have to reinstall if you want to go from 32 to 64bit.

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I would agree.

However, if you find your self using a lot of applications that are capable of using all the cores, such as Video encoding, the extra cores really do make a big difference.

If you do not these types of things, or that often, you may not see that much difference.
With the exception of a few games that use up to 4 cores.

Alright, I appreciate your input guys. It has really helped me trim down my choices. Thanks!