Is sqlippool fast enough in 2.1.3

I have had a number of problems with 1.1.7 and sqlippool that its simply not able to process more than 10-20 connections at any one time. I will upgrade to 2.1.3 if its capable of handing 50-80 connections at one time? Does any one know? My server is a p4 dual core 3.0ghz and its also handing some load of emails for about 200 accounts. I tried to optimize my mysql installation, etc num_server but I could never get it fast enough. Anyone know of tricks, or if 2.1.3 freeradius is any better? or should I be looking at some other way to hand out IPs? I really like the sqlippool way of doing things. Thanks!