[Affe]

Which would be faster on average?

I am thinking about getting a refurbished 2.0GHz Core Duo or a 1.83GHz Core 2 Duo, but I am not sure which too choose. I plan on upgrading the RAM myself to 2GB. The CD is $50 cheaper then the C2D and it also has a Superdrive, but I don't really plan on burning any DVDs, but it would be nice to know I am able to.

[j03]

Well as far as CPUs go,

Go with the 2.0. It is a big performance boost.

[mduell]

The CPU performance will be nearly identical; maybe a slight nod to the C2D for SIMD heavy code.
I'd go with the C2D, less issues all around.

[mfbernstein]

Definitely go with C2D. As mduell said, performance difference will be negligible: the 2.0GHZ will be at best 8% faster in very special situations, but in most situations the 1.83GHZ will actually be faster. The C2D runs cooler, and C2D machines have a far lower incidence of Random Sudden Shutdown syndrome and processor whine, both of which were relatively common with the original Core Duo model.

[Affe]

Ok, I was leaning towards the C2D from the start and now if I do get one, I will most likely get the C2D, but I am not sure if I should wait.

When should the next generation on the MacBook come out? Are there any speculated specs?

[mduell]

Originally Posted by Affe 

When should the next generation on the MacBook come out? Are there any speculated specs?

Intel's new mobile platform (Santa Rosa) will be released on May 8. Faster FSB, flash memory acceleration, probably some CPU price drops, etc. I expect Apple will pick it up very quickly for the MBP, but they may not adopt it in the MB for a month or two.

[liquidsilver6840]

You can find refurbished Intel Core 2 Duo MacBooks on Apple's website.. No need to get a CD...