AMD Epyc 8005 Brings 84 Cores and DDR5-6400 to SP6 Servers

AMD has introduced AMD Epyc 8005, a major update to its SP6 server processor lineup with up to 84 cores, 384 MB of L3 cache and six-channel DDR5-6400 memory support. The new series succeeds Epyc 8004 and is designed as a drop-in upgrade for compatible servers.

The processors, codenamed Sorano, move from Zen 4c to Zen 5 and bring a significantly changed chip design. While the previous Siena-based Epyc 8004 models used up to four CCDs and 64 cores, AMD Epyc 8005 uses up to 12 CCDs and reaches 84 cores.

More CCDs and More Cache

The top model includes 384 MB of L3 cache, three times the maximum 128 MB offered by the previous generation. Although 12 CCDs could theoretically allow 96 cores, AMD is initially offering the series with up to 84 cores.

The new design makes the lineup closer to a reduced Genoa-class processor than a simple update of the earlier SP6 platform. AMD says existing servers that support Epyc 8004 can support the new chips with the required platform support.

Seven Models Planned

AMD will initially offer seven AMD Epyc 8005 models ranging from 8 to 84 cores. Prices start at $529 for the entry-level model and rise to $5,799 for the flagship version.

The 64-core model is listed at $5,499, while the 48-core version is priced at $3,099. AMD also lists 32-core, 24-core and 16-core models at $2,299, $1,079 and $799, respectively.

Performance Gains Expected

AMD says the new processors deliver major performance improvements over Epyc 8004. The gains are expected to come from the move to Zen 5, the larger L3 cache, faster memory support and higher core counts within a similar TDP range.

Independent benchmark results were not included in the announcement, but the specifications point to a substantial upgrade for SP6 servers using AMD Epyc 8005 processors.