MBP core duo or core 2 duo

[SlinkyMike]

Ok, first off no sarky comments... from either side please. (actually whatever - go nuts, as long as one or two sensible replies churn up I'm happy.)

Im am looking into getting a MBP and my last experience with Mac was a Powerbook, there are a few offers on the table, my questionis this:
is a 1.83ghz core duo hugely sluggish as compared to the more recent core 2 duo for everyday tasks?

I need to run windows for work so bootcamp is a definite, maaaybe paralells but not gonna fork out tonsf cash just to run simultaneous OS's.

I am a failry light user: movies, music, internet and a bit of photoshop here and there, DVD ripping is probably the heaviest task that I will require of it.
Why go pro you ask?
...Cos i can.

So, comments? Am I going to regret the slower / older proc in a few months or will it serve?

EDIT: also: what is a reasonable price for a 1-2 year old MBP in your esteemed opinions?

 

[icyrus]

I have an original MacBook Pro 17" core duo 2.16GHz and use it for development and have never found it to be anything but extremely responsive. Even during major compiles.

If you do go with an older model try and get at least 2GBs of RAM and if possible a 7200rpm hard-drive.

Unfortunately I cannot help with pricing.

 

[StbA]

if you need it "NOW" rather go for the second hand one. The new model is coming soon.
http://capetown.gumtree.co.za/ search for Apple, you'll get an idea of the prices second hand.
One thing, I've seen a lot of MBP with failed graphics cards, personally I would rather buy one new and with a 3 years warranty. (you get that with the Vodacom deal)

 

[SlinkyMike]

if you need it "NOW" rather go for the second hand one. The new model is coming soon.
http://capetown.gumtree.co.za/ search for Apple, you'll get an idea of the prices second hand.
One thing, I've seen a lot of MBP with failed graphics cards, personally I would rather buy one new and with a 3 years warranty. (you get that with the Vodacom deal)

Thanks for the advice but that Vcom deal is idiotic if I remember correctly plus the last thing I need is MOR airtime / bandwidth whatever... you are talking about the deal thats over a grand a month * 24 right?

 

[StbA]

yep, if you know somebody going to the states you can always ask them to get one with the extended warranty for you.

 

[SlinkyMike]

Thanks... out of interest: what are the symptoms of these failed graphics cards?

 

[StbA]

Vertical lines across the screen, sometimes the back light goes. The most dependable Mac's are in order : Mac Mini's, Mac Pro's, Macbook's, iMac's and then the Macbook Pro.
No historical data available for the Macbook Air.

 

[SlinkyMike]

Vertical lines across the screen, sometimes the back light goes. The most dependable Mac's are in order : Mac Mini's, Mac Pro's, Macbook's, iMac's and then the Macbook Pro.
No historical data available for the Macbook Air.

OK, thats the 1st I have heard of this 'sliding scale of reliability' - but it seems plausible based on the type of usage, i.e.: notebook gets carried around a lot and so suffers a little more wear and tear... cant understand what makes the mini more reliable that the Pro desktop though... less rocket science maybe?

 

[VertigoZA]

I just upgraded from a 17" PowerBook (2003) to a 2.5Ghz 17" MacBook Pro... its FREAKIN' awesome! its such a huge difference its not even funny... video conversion has gone from 8-9 hours down to 7-8 minutes... its been worth every cent I spent... well every cent insurance spent!

Oh and I wouldn't buy yet... rumors of new MacBooks are coming SOON.. Pic follows in the link

http://i34.tinypic.com/142sdvk.jpg

 

[bwana]

I've got my 17" MBP C2D and my 17" Powerbook side by side in front of me. )