Core i7 is a fundamental revision in architecture for intel. No longer based on the FSB or front side bus system the i7 makes the jump to an onboard memory controller that AMD made a few years ago. This will lead to significantly reduced memory latency as well as increased computinig power due to that decrease. The i7 additionally has some power saving features over the older Conroe/Penryn processors.
In essence you could expect about a 10-15% jump in performance. If you already have a Q9550 processor and accompanying DDR3 rig I wouldn't suggest the change unless you just like spending cash. A better investment might be a raid setup or better video card. In terms of video card i would also suggest you hold off on that front as well until after the new year. Nvidia's annoouncement of the GTX 295 should drop prices on existing cards including the 4870.
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