  We compare the performances of the templates defined by three different types
of approaches: traditional post-Newtonian templates (Taylor-approximants),
``resummed'' post-Newtonian templates assuming the adiabatic approximation and
stopping before the plunge (P-approximants), and further ``resummed''
post-Newtonian templates going beyond the adiabatic approximation and
incorporating the plunge with its transition from the inspiral
(Effective-one-body approximants). The signal to noise ratio is significantly
enhanced (mainly because of the inclusion of the plunge signal) by using these
new effective-one-body templates relative to the usual post-Newtonian ones for
binary masses greater than $ 30 M_\odot$, the most likely sources for initial
laser interferometers. Independently of the question of the plunge signal, the
comparison of the various templates confirms the usefulness of using
resummation methods. The paper also summarizes the key elements of the
construction of various templates and thus can serve as a resource for those
involved in writing inspiral search software.
