The first three models of Intel's upcoming next-gen "Sandy Bridge-E" Core i7 processors has been made available. We're still going to see an Enthusiast and Performance release, Performance including BClk multiplier-unlocked six-core chips as well as locked quad-core chips. The new series is set to include the 3000 series of processor model numbering, this means that the new processors will be part of Intel's 3rd generation Core processors, even though they're based on the Sandy Bridge architecture.

Leading the CPUs will be the Core i7-3960X Extreme Edition, six-core (12 threads with HTT) has a stock clock speed of 3.30GHz with 3.90GHz Turbo Boost, features 15MB of L3 cache. This chip is expected to have a four figure price tag. This will of course have its BClk multiplier unlocked for some insane overclocking. Next we have the Core i7-3930K which is again a 6 core, 12 threaded chip with a stock clock speed of 3.20GHz and Turbo Boost speed of 3.80GHz, inclusive of 12MB of L3 cache and features an unlocked BClk multiplier.

The most affordable LGA2011-based CPU will be the Core i7-3820 which is a quad-core, 8 threaded chip with a stock clock speed of 3.60GHz and Turbo Boost of up to 3.90GHz. With just 10MB of L3 cache, it is definitely the smaller sibling in the family. This chip has its BClk multiplier locked.

All three models sport quad-channel DDR3 memory controllers, but it is likely that lower-end models might feature lower DRAM multiplier limits. All three chips are set to have all features in common including a PCI Express 3.0 root complex that provides two x16 links to drive graphics.