Mostly like 3950x's where already highly binned CPU's and there wasn't enough better binned models to make this viable. XT is simply just the process maturing and getting slightly better parts in general. The middle of the road CPU's on the other hand are probably maturing better (since they weren't as high binned parts to begin with).So long as there is no delay in Zen 3 / 4000 series chips (I'd like to see Ryzen in Sept/Oct and TR by November if possible), I don't see any problem with the XT versions. It seems like they're simply replacing the previous versions with XT variants for the same cost, so thats a nice benefit ; the only concern is that sales on these may not go as deeply as they did without this revamp. I do have to admit I wonder why they couldn't have offered a 3950XT, with some additional performance - especially considering its price, most threads + highest clock rates, it seems like it would really benefit from being able to add higher base and boost clocks. The only conclusion I can draw is that perhaps there's no room on the 3950X , even with the XT process enhancements? Still, would have been nice to see a 3950XT w/ 4.8 -5.0 all core turbo under sufficient cooling.