You just know that a new processor is in the works when the price of an incumbent drops by at least 10 per cent.

We're talking about the AMD Phenom II 940 Black Edition, clocked in at 3.0GHz and run off an AM2+ form-factor.

Priced at around £240 at launch in January, quickly dropping to £190 a few weeks later, the highest-frequency Phenom II X4 has had another snip.

Available for £165, including VAT and delivery from Ebuyer, the retail-boxed chip makes a compelling case as the engine for a mid-range build. 4GB of quality DDR2 should set you back less than £40, and a 790GX motherboard a further £75.

AMD's a company that stresses value, and the Phenom II X4 940 BE is certainly that. Your move, Intel.

Ebuyer link @ £165.21 (£196 currently - 12:45 20/0409)

Update 12:45 - ebuyer's pricing has reverted back to pre-cut levels, at around £195.

Scan.co.uk has picked up on the cut that's confirmed by AMD UK marketing boss, Andrew Buxton, to HEXUS.channel.

Scan link at £167.89.