AMD is cheaper than Intel, for equivalent power. Some might argue that Intel chips are better, but I've used AMD pretty much exclusively for um, 12 years? and no problems.

BTW, you might want to consider hosting for your server. Check out Mossycobble or the like, $15 bucks a month will get you a decent server. It is what I did until Domo allowed my to piggyback off his dedicated server.