Micro, as an overall theme, I'm holding on buying and even research decisions. Reasons: unclear what Kepler is going to do for folding performance as it's not being properly exploited by the current architecture, unclear on the overall points structure as they consider/test incorporating Quick Return Bonus (a la SMP) into all GPU folding.
I'm waiting for all this to sort itself out, probably all at once in the new year is my unjustified guess as to when. My feel for things is that right now a Kepler core doesn't even equal a Fermi core in the overall folding compensation structure.
That doesn't help you with your current problem of having a 550ti that won't fold. If you're moving before things shake out and become a little more clear, as always your better judgement will prevail, you're not going to go wrong buying quality and making the best value decision, another reason why the New Year beckons.
| 