Advanced Micro Devices said Tuesday that it would cut the prices of its central processing units (CPUs) aimed at enthusiasts. The move will popularize AMD’s platforms aimed at experienced users and will also clean the way for new processors due to be introduced shortly.

According to the company, it would decrease the price of AMD Phenom II X4 940 Black Edition chip from $225 to $150 - $200 in an attempt to “tap into a significantly larger total available market”. Besides, the company also plans to reduce the price of AMD Athlon X2 7750 Black Edition central processing unit in order to “drive an outstanding product in a key market price band with a clear competitive victory”.

AMD’s the Black Edition processors have unlocked clock multiplier, which allows enthusiasts to clock the chip higher than default frequency without any hassles that are associated with overclocking. The customizable clock multiplier and auto-adjustable memory frequency of the new chip enables amateurs and value-conscious enthusiasts to maximize the performance of their desktop computers without substantial problems. Typically enthusiasts have to increase base HyperTransport bus speed from default 200MHz, which eventually causes not only CPU clock-speed boost, but also alters HT bus and memory frequency, meaning that other components apart from the microprocessor also should be able to handle increased speeds.

The Sunnyvale, California-based chipmaker plans to release new AMD Phenom II and other microprocessors with higher default clock-speeds shortly, therefore, price-cuts will clear the path for novelties.

Tags: AMD, Phenom, Athlon