I'm thinking of upgrading the CPU in an OEM machine from a Socket 754 Sempron to a Socket 754 Athlon 64. I don't plan on overclocking but I have a question/concern. The clocking/multiplier settings in the BIOS are locked (thank you Compaq.) So while the current Sempron operates at a stock 1.8 GHz, the Athlon 64 runs at stock 2.2 GHz. Will the BIOS keep the current multiplier settings and UNDERclock the Athlon 64 to 1.8 GHz or will it adjust to the stock speed of the Athlon 64 (2.2 GHz)?

"Will the BIOS keep the current multiplier settings and UNDERclock the Athlon 64 to 1.8 GHz"

Nope. The Athlon will run at its full 2.2GHz.

Encoded:
24 Laserdiscs (480p AVC @ 2.0Mbps, Dolby 2.0 @ 224Kbps)
134 DVDs (480p AVC @ 2.5Mbps, DTS 5.1 @ 768Kbps)
48 Blu-Ray (1080p AVC @ 12.5Mbps, DTS 5.1 @ 1.5Mbps)
32 HD-DVD (same as BR

Geeks.com has the S754 A64 3200+ Venice for about $27. Use this coupon code to get 10% off: TECHBARGAINS

Alright, thanks jackbomb!

@jam:
Yeah, I had been searching Socket 754 Athlon 64's and came across that site. Geeks.com only has a 7-day return policy, however, the standard shipping is $13 AND since I live in California they were going to charge me sales tax. It was going to be over $40, if I bought from them.

I went on Amazon and it was basically the same situation. Around $30 for the CPU + $8-10 for shipping. So, I went on eBay instead and found a new 3200+ Venice core for $19 and $9.99 shipping. With a 10% off coupon, I only ended up paying $27.09 total. No tax since it ships from Ohio. DEAL! I put the money I saved towards thermal compound and a 1 GB stick of RAM from Newegg. I'm happy.