A new 6 core processor is on the way from AMD, Q2 2010. Likely to Launch under the phenom brand.
People with am2+ or am3 motherboards will not need to upgrade(one of AMD's strong points). Few months after intel, but it will be realistically priced.

Intel should release the i9 end Q1/Beginning Q2. It is basically a 6 core I7 with stock clocks of 3.3ghz. Has been overclocked to 4.5ghz on air cooling. Will set you back a cool $999

Be nice to see what that i9 could handle under water cooling or something even more intense.

think 6-6.5 has been mentioned. They got the new i5 to 7ghz

AM2+ & AM3