It seems as if Intel has no plans to let AMD catch a breath as they've introduced the Core 2 Quad Q8400 running at 2.66GHz. This CPU comes with 4MB of L2 cache and a 1333MHz FSB, so you can consider it a Q9400 with 1MB less cache per die and no virtualization support.

Despite the fact that Phenom II X4 940 and the Q9400 are waging a tough performance battle, it’s the pricing that sets them apart as the aforementioned Phenom goes for about $190 whereas the Q9400 is at about $220.

A cost down version of Q9400 would certainly make sense and since it goes for about $184 it might make AMD drop the pricing even further, as the Q8400 offers similar performance for less money.