The cores of the multicore version of the AMD Athlon X2 contain a hardware bug and frequently run out-of-sync. We were able to measure and proof the syncronisation problem on 5 from 5 tested AMD Athlon X2 models. The syncronisation problem on the AMD X2 is much more critical then the famous 'Intel Pentium FDIV bug', because it happens more frequently and has more drastic effects. It can be a very frustrating experience for the user. The hardware bug is an absolute no-go for everyone who needs a relieable computer or uses it in a more professional way.
It causes random glitches, low performance, freezes, timing problems or crashes with a large number of programs. Expecially multithreaded realtime software like computer games or audio applications like Cubase are affected by this. The problem will get worse in the future, since more and more software supports multicore CPUs.
Solutions:1) AMD provides a tool that does a workaround for the hardware bug. It's called 'AMD Dual Core Athlon 64 X2 Optimizer'.
It is available on
www.amd.com . We don't know if we can recommend it, since it does some critical low level hacks on Windows. Beside of that it's not clear if it can completely solve the problem.
2) Deactivate one core on the DIY.
3) Install an older oparating system which supports only single core processors.
Recommendations:1) You can try to submit a warranty claim to your computer trader.
2) If you want to purchase software install a free demoversion before you purchase it to make sure that it is compatible with the Athlon X2.
3) Try to avoid this processor in general. For audio applications we currently recommend the Intel Core2Quad and Intel I7 series.
Further notes:Tone2 software is and will be fully compatible with the buggy models of the Athlon X2. It is not necessary to install a fix from AMD.
