AMD's fastest Phenom X4 9950 Black Edition is listed at a couple of European retailers as of this morning.

It's clocked at 2.6GHz, has 4MB of cache and a sizzling TDP rating of 140W, to go with the heatwave that has engulfed much of Europe these days. The price currently stands at €199 and it's still unavailable. For comparison, you can get an Intel Core 2 Quad Q9300 clocked at 2.5GHz for €186. The Q9300 has 2x3MB cache and a TDP of "just" 95W.

Considering the price, TDP and OC potential, trying to fight Intel's Core 2 with the fledgling Phenom still seems to be an exercise in futility. It's like trying to cut down a huge oak with a weed whacker.

You can find the listing here.