Intel's new "Ivy Bridge Extreme" processor has hit the stores. The Intel Core i7-4960X processor and family will get the blood pumping for hardcore gamers, 3D artists, video geeks and anyone who uses their computer to the max. With up to six processing cores / twelve processing threads (brains that chew through your applications) and fully unlocked capabilities for PC modders and overclockers, this CPU family has the desktop enthusiast in mind first and foremost.

Another advantage for enthusiasts is that these new processors share an identical socket with Intel's previous generation LGA 2011 'Sandy Bridge' Extreme Edition product family. And PCIe Gen 3 capability means that hardcore users can geek out on two, three, and even four discrete graphics card configs.

Three new SKUs will be available next week ranging from four to six cores and from $310 to $990.