Dual Channel question!

[single entendre]

I'm looking to buy this RAM:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820231310

If I buy one stick now, and another later, will it be the same as:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820231311

Also, what exactly does dual channel mean?
Lastly, it seems like the 1600 version is only several dollars more, is it even worth it and what's the difference?

 

[o1die]

If you don't mind rebates, I found a newegg deal recently for $23.50 after rebate on some patriot 1333 gamers series for 2 x 4 gb. I got the rebate card and spent it on groceries recently. The ripjaws is good ram, I paid $50 for mine about 6 months ago; I also have some mixed with kingston 1333 on my 4 slot board. The difference in speed (1600 versus 1333) is small, so if you can wait for black friday, you may find a similar deal for 8 gb. Frys has corsair 1333 8 gb for $25 after rebate today only in stores only. Dual channel means simply that the ram works best in pairs; most boards are color coded for dual channel mode. Simply use two of the same ram in the same color slots.