Feed: Computer Processor Comparison - AggScore: 50.1

ASUS A8N-SLI Premium - Motherboard - ATX - nForce4 SLI - Socket 939 - 2 x Gigabit Ethernet - FireWire - 8-channel audio Review

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Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This motherboard comes with twice the cables that you will need to set up a computer, so you will always have a handy replacement box full of parts in case something goes wrong (not very often) or you decide to upgrade. The northbridge has a passive cooler, which greatly reduces the noise of the computer. BIOS settings are decent and if you know what you are doing, you should have no problem with it. It also offers a program that will automatically overclock your rig. I haven't tried it, I could never bring myself to trust a program to play god with my $500 processor, but for those of you with regular Athlon 64s, set it and go.
My computer:
this mobo
Athlon 64 X2 4400+
WD SE16 250GB SATA HDD
XFX 7800GT
Zalman cooling
Antec TruePower 2.0 550W PSU (HUGE cables, BTW)

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Asus (A8N-SLIPREMIUM) ATX nforce4 SLI 939 Dual Chann

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JVC GRDVL120U MiniDV Digital CyberCam Video Camera with 2.5" LCD & B/W Viewfinder Review

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Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)After researching the least expensive MiniDV camcorder models on the market, I finally decided the JVC GR-DVL120 packed the most punch for the price. My review does focus on some of the negatives, but in general, I am satisfied with my camcorder.
The Amazon.com editor's review mentions that the camera has a 16x optical zoom. Unless their are sub-models of the DVL120, this claim is false. The optical zoom is 10x. Regardless, the 10x optical zoom seems suitable.
JVC lets you know that the camera can perform a 700x digital, but this is essentially zoom overkill. There is a setting to stop the digital zoom at 40x, which is plenty zoomed-in. Of course, the farther you zoom in the more shaky the picture. The camera has a digital stabilizer, but the effects are not noticeable. I have no other experience with digital image stabilizers, so I do not know what to expect. Overall, the camera picture is relatively stable for a handheld camcorder. So far, the Night Alive feature has proved very ineffective. It appears that this feature mimics the strobe feature of the camera. I was hoping for more of a "green" view when the low-light feature was turned on, but that may exist only in more expensive camcorders. If you're looking for low-light or fantastically stable images, then this camera may not be for you.
The camera does include numerous other features such as b/w mode, old time movie mode, sepia, strobe, slow and a few others.
The camera does have an automatic mode and a manual mode. The automatic mode is a quick-start way of recording video -- the only options that you really need to deal with in automatic mode are the zoom and record on/off buttons. In the manual mode, you have the ability to adjust the white balance (I have not tried this yet), shutter speed and manual focus. The manual focus is a nice option to have, but I found that it somewhat challenging to use and not as versatile in its manual range as I'd hoped. Not a big disappointment though because again, this is a value camcorder and the fact that it does have a manual focus at all is a plus. The camera has a still shot button, which I find more of a nuisance than an added bonus because it is near the zoom feature, so it is sometimes accidentally punched. There is no memory card for data, so the still photo is saved to the MiniDV tape. Do not buy this camcorder if you want both a camcorder and a digital camera combination!
Other features included are editing functions such as wipes and faders. I do not use these because I typically add effects on the back end with my computer. This brings me to one of the coolest features of MiniDV -- the ability to connect your camcorder to your computer. The camera does not include the FireWire cable needed to connect to your computer, but they are relatively inexpensive and well worth it if your computer has a FireWire port. I use a program that came with my Dell to control my camcorder from my computer and record video through the FireWire to my computer. All video-to-computer transfers are made in real-time. The digital transfer keeps video quality as good as when you recorded it. The camcorder does include the necessary RCA cables needed to hook up to a television or VCR (with RCA inputs).
The AC adaptor plugs directly into the camera, so you do not need a separate bulky adaptor. The battery only lasts approximately one hour when using the color view-screen (1.25 hours with the small b/w viewfinder), which isn't that long, but is probably suitable for most consumers. Of course, extra batteries are available.
For someone looking to buy a low-priced MiniDV camcorder for general uses, the GR-DVL120 is a great value.

Click Here to see more reviews about: JVC GRDVL120U MiniDV Digital CyberCam Video Camera with 2.5" LCD & B/W Viewfinder

The GR-DVL120 boasts a 680,000-pixel CCD super high-band processor for 520 lines of horizontal resolution. The maximum user friendliness is achieved with Night Alive (for low-light recording), high-resolution 2.5" Amorphous Silicon LCD color monitor, 700X super digital zoom with spline interpolation, picture stabilizer and long-time recording capability.

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Casio Cassiopeia EM-500 Color Pocket PC (Slate Blue) Review

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Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I rate this product with 4 stars. Nothing receives 5 stars, that would imply perfection, and no room for improvement.
It's hard to compare this with a Palm Pilot, because they're so fundementally different, but that is exactly what the target is. I have a Palm IIIxe, which may not be the top-of-the-line Palm, but is functional, and use this as a comparison to the Cassiopeia EM-500.
Cost: the Palm IIIxe is half the price of the Cassiopeia, but if you compare the Palm IIIc, then the price range narrows where it's no longer an arguement.
Size: the size is similar enough that any arguement of which is smaller/bigger is a lot of hot-air. The Cassiopeia is substationally heavier than the Palm.
Processor: people make a big fuss over processor speed. The Cassiopeia has a 150MHz MIPS processor. The Palm has an unknown speed 68k-based processor.
Screen: The screen is bigger than a Palm, and needless to say, it's color. It's very sharp and easy to read.
Sound: The Palm has no functional sound to speak of. It's capable of emitting beeps reminiscint of the Apple II.
Battery: The Palm here wins flatout. Lifetime on the Palm far exceeds the Cassiopeia. The Palm uses AAA batteries, and the Cassiopeia uses rechargable batteries.
Memory: The Palm again wins here. The IIIxe has 8mb of RAM, and the operating system is extremely efficent with memory allocation. The Cassiopeia has 16mb, and I've already started to run out of memory. I have a full KJV Bible installed on my Palm, as well as several other apps, and still have over 5mb of free memory. I installed a single 7mb MP3 on the Cassiopeia, and have no room left. Memory management for the Cassiopeia is bizzare - you select, via a slider, how much memory to allocate to storages vs. programs. I
Expansion: The only Palm-type product to offer reasonable expansion is the Handspring Visor. The Cassiopeia EM-500 does not use Compact Flash cards, but rather something called "MMC". The CF-style handhelds offer a wider range of expansion - such as modems, network cards, physical drives, and so forth. The MMC seems to limit me to multimedia storage expansion only.
Syncronization: Microsoft's ActiveSync is much better than HotSync. When you plug the Cassiopeia into the sync cable, the machine stays synced during the entire process. Also, the interface is nicer. If you want to install files/programs, you use an already familiar Explorer-like window to drag items into and out of the Cassiopeia. Updates occur async, so you can continue to use the Cassiopeia while syncs are happening.
Operating System: The Palm wins here. PocketPC Windows is very confusing, and the screen is incredibly cluttered. I would like if there were alternative OS's available for PocketPC, such as NetBSD.
Handwriting: this is hard to compare. Both products offer handwriting recognition systems, and also offer on-screen "soft" keyboards. The Cassiopeia was sometimes too fast to recognize my characters before I was done with them. I like the ability to see the on-screen results of my handwriting on the Cassiopeia. You can add several hacks to the Palm to do simiar, but it's not a base feature.
Third-party software: forget about it. The Palm has an enormous base of software applications.
Applications: The apps are similar across platforms, but I find the Palm versions of the apps easier to use. Everything is readily available at the touch of a single button. You may need to wrangle a few menus on the Cassiopeia to find what you really want.
Bottom line: this is a fine computer product. If you're interested in a personal organizer, I would stay towards the Palm Pilot. If you're interested in an alternative to laptops, with all the bells and whistles, the Cassiopeia is a good choice.

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The slim EM-500 is a mobile multimedia tool that targets both the younger market and professionals. Designed to highlight Casio's new faster processor and available in 5 different colors, the EM-500 is stylishly designed and engineered to take advantage of the new and emerging digital content that is available on the Internet. The EM-500 is the first Pocket PC to feature the new MMC (multimedia card memory system) featuring postage stamp size memory cards with up to 64MB of storage.

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JVC GR-D295U Hi-Band MiniDV Camcorder w/25x Optical Zoom Review

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Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Nice camcorder for price. The audio sounds fine to me. Zoom is excellent. I connected the camera using firewire to my DVD recorder and it works great, very simple. I am able to easily make copies to DVD of what we created. The onscreen guide is farily easy to navigate through to find what you are looking for. If you want to be able to film and then transfer to DVD, I highly recommend this camera along with buying a DVD recorder, much easier than using a PC. Prices on DVD recorders are now very affordable.

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Slim & Compact MiniDV Digital Camcorder with Live Slow and 25x Optical Zoom / 800x Digital Zoom

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Canon VIXIA HF R11 Full HD Camcorder w/32GB Flash Memory Review

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Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I just bought this camera from Costco for around $460. I'm a professional filmmaker [...] and I've used all kinds of equipment. I'd love to take the time to write up a detailed review, but I'm on a tight production deadline as I type. And after seeing only one person give this camera a review-- a 1-star review, primarily frustrated, it seems, with the editing software that comes with the camera--I just had to say: "Wait! This is a super camera for the price! Consider it, folks!"
The best I can give you is a link to a ZDNet review. They gave it a 7.9 rating out of 10. That's pretty doggone good. Check it out at: [...]
Have fun!
Bob

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The VIXIA HF R11 allows you to record up to 12 hours of video to a 32GB internal flash drive or to a removable SD memory card. With Relay Recording, the camcorder automatically switches video recording from the internal drive to the SD memory card when the memory becomes full. There's no need to worry about running out of recording time during a thrilling, once-in-a-lifetime shot. You'll also have the flexibility of copying video from your VIXIA HF R11's internal drive to the removable SD memory card. That makes it easy to insert the card into your computer or HDTV's card reader and view your recorded footage immediately. The advantages of flash memory go beyond the added recording time. You'll also appreciate the quick response time, because there are no moving parts. In addition, when you review, you'll have quick access to your footage. Another plus is the VIXIA HF R11's low power consumption rate, allowing your battery to last longer. And if your HF R11 happens to slip, or you accidentally knock it against something, you'll be happy to know that flash memory makes your camcorder more shock-resistant than other recording storage systems. It also minimizes the chance of data loss if there is damage to your recording media or to the moving parts found in other camcorders.Genuine Canon 20x HD Video Lens delivers excellent image quality, while the Canon Exclusive 2.39MP HD CMOS Image Sensor captures video at 1920 x 1080 resolution and photos with astonishing detail, while the Canon Exclusive DIGIC DV III Image Processor provides impressive color and imaging performance, with enhanced reproduction of difficult to capture purple and blue tones

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Intel DP35DP Media Series P35 ATX DDR2 800 PCIe x161333MHz FSB LGA775 Desktop Board - Retail Review

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Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This motherboard is a great buy for casual users who are not thinking of overclocking or don't mind that only 1.8v memory seems to be the only way to max out your memory, the mother board does work as advertized.
Works great with Core 2 Quad and 4 gig of memory, sound is acceptable.
I found no problem with it, once I upgraded the bios, but I did have some problems with heat and bios malfunctions, once I downloaded and upgraged the bios all the problems where gone.
There is a lot to like about this motherboard, just make sure you use 1.8v memory or you will have plenty of headaches.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Intel DP35DP Media Series P35 ATX DDR2 800 PCIe x161333MHz FSB LGA775 Desktop Board - Retail

With the growing popularity of user-generated media, peer-to-peer sharing and the uploading and viewing of streaming video, photos and more, it's no secret that the creation and sharing of digital entertainment is on the rise. From tech-savvy hobbyists to professional designers, today's users need hardware that can run the advanced multimedia tools needed to create and enjoy audio, video and more.
Intel® Media Series Desktop Boards Product Highlight Incredibly versatile, Intel® Media Series Desktop Boards are designed to support high-bandwidth interfaces and are ideal for running demanding entertainment, education, and gaming applications. Big, unwieldy media files can quickly overcome mainstream desktop PCs. Intel Media Series Desktop Boards allow users to experience HD videos in surround sound, design school projects or presentations, or upload vacation videos right out of the box, and with superior speed and efficiency. Onboard Audio Utilizing the Intel® High Definition audio chipset, the Intel® Media series delivers rich, realistic 360° Dolby Home Theater audio up to 8-channel, 7.1 surround sound. Included Dolby Control Center software allows you to tweak and adjust your audio experience to meet your exacting requirements. Immerse yourself in sound as you enjoy the latest film in high definition or simply relax with some favorite tunes. Whatever you do, enjoy every decibel coming at you in all directions. Quad-Core Compatibility With support for Intel's latest quad-core processors, Intel® Desktop Media Series Boards deliver highly efficient performance for the most demanding entertainment applications. With multiple computing "brains", new multi-core processing systems can run resource intensive games and multimedia applications with phenomenal ease and superior responsiveness. Advanced Technical Specifications

Supported CPU
CPU Socket Type: LGA775
CPU Type: Intel® Core™2 Quad / Intel® Core™2 Duo / Intel® Pentium® Dual-Core / Intel® Celeron® Dual-Core / Intel® Celeron®

Chipsets
North Bridge: Intel® P35 Express Chipset

Memory
Memory Slots: 4x240-pin
Memory Standard: DDR2 667/800 MHz
Maximum Supported Memory: 8 GB

Expansion Slots
PCI Express x16 connectors: 1
PCI Express x1 connections: 3
PCI bus connectors: 3

Storage Devices
PATA: 1
SATA 3Gb/s: 6
eSATA: 1

Onboard Audio
Audio Chipset: Intel® High Definition Audio
Audio Channels: 8-channel (7.1) Dolby Home Theater
S/PDIF Out: 2 digital audio outputs
Audio Ports: 5 analog audio outputs

Onboard LAN
Max LAN Speed: 10/100/1000 Mbits/sec

Onboard USB
Onboard USB: 12 USB 2.0 ports

Onboard IEEE 1394
Onboard IEEE 1394: 2 IEEE1394a ports (1 back panel connector, 1 header)

Physical Spec
Form Factor: ATX
Dimensions: 12 inches x 9.6 inches (304.80 mm x 243.84 mm)

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Sony Bravia V-Series KDL-46V2500 46-Inch 1080p LCD HDTV Review

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Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I've been considering the 46V2500 for some time now. After reading the extensive forum thread on AVS as well as checking the monitor out for myself in stores, I was convinced this was the monitor for me. For those of you who are considering the XBR2/XBR3 sets, the only MAJOR differences include the glass bezel and a few additional internal settings and features (some that you probably won't even utilize much less care about). The V2500 series uses the same exact LCD panel as the XBR series. Justifying the price hike between the V 2500 and the XBR units is a matter of personal preference aesthetically. Performance-wise, the units are nearly identical.
Out of the box performance as excellent, but the monitor really shined after a few image tweaks. Fyi for anyone who has this monitor, custom tune your color settings to NOT use the "Vivid" enhancement. The image becomes way blown out and the contrast is much too high. After toning it down to standard with "neutral" color setting (along with a few other tweaks in the various sliders) I was able to get a superb picture.
I currently have an XBOX 360 connected to it through component at 1080i. I have also had a chance to check out a Blu-Ray movie on a PS3 I borrowed...which was absolutely jaw-dropping at 1080p. I also tested Ridge Racer 7 (PS3) which runs natively on 1080p and as far as resolution and clarity are concerned that's as good as it gets. I can't wait until future PS3 titles support native 1080p...people with capable sets are in for a treat. After getting a taste of true 1080p with HD content, it's hard for me to go back to anything else haha. I guess I spoiled myself a little to early.
The OSD and menus are intuitive and very easy to use. I didn't find myself going to through uneccessary menus to get to my final destination. I especially liked the feature of being able to rename my video inputs (1 through 8) with either custom tags or with a selection from a pre-determined list (DVD, GAME, SAT, etc..).
I was skeptical about the sound quality from the speakers at first, but I was pleasantly surprised by the fidelity and clarity of sound they outputted. Who knew TV speakers could sound good? I live in an apartment so I was happy that I didn't have to add a complex surround sound setup.
Shipping was safe and secure. Amazon uses Eagle Freight shipping services for this unit and they were very efficient, although tracking is updated less frequently than other carriers. Not really a downside though.

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Sony KDL-46V2500 46" V-Series 1080p LCD HDTV

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XFX PVT88PYDF4 GeForce 8800GT 512MB GDDR3 PCI Express x16 SLI Ready Video Card (Dual DVI/S-Video) Review

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Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)First things first: This is the XFX Alpha Dog edition. The PVT it gives says it is the stock XFX but the one I got in the mail was the Alpha Dog.
I have a Dell Inspiron 530 computer with the Q6600 and the 8600GT graphics. I bought this as an "upgrade." First things first, I had to upgrade my power supply from the stock 350watts to a 500watt PSU. This graphics card has a power supply plug on the end of it. The card is INCREDIBLY LONG ... So much so you better make sure you have space for it if you have a small box. For the Dell Inspiron 530 - had to take out a hard drive to get it in the case.
Now for the actual review. I'm an Eve-Online player. I went from 170FPS (8600GT) to 410 FPS (8800GT) in station with Eve Classic. I went from low 50 FPS (8600GT) to 210 FPS (8800GT) with Eve Premium. Yeah, there is a HUGE difference... The graphics are so much better than the 8600GT as well.
The downsides (reason for 4 stars): This card runs INCREDIBLY hot - so hot I can't even touch it for a second. The card is upside down in my case so it blows hot air to the bottom and just recirculates it. I had to install a case fan and leave a PCI slot open to blow the hot air out. I HAVE NOT had the card freeze but if you don't have good case ventilation that might be an issue for you.

Click Here to see more reviews about: XFX PVT88PYDF4 GeForce 8800GT 512MB GDDR3 PCI Express x16 SLI Ready Video Card (Dual DVI/S-Video)

NVIDIA GeForce 8 series graphics processing units (GPUs) redefine the PC gaming experience. With a revolutionary unified architecture and full support for Microsoft DirectX 10 games, GeForce 8 series GPUs deliver unprecedented performance, extraordinarily detailed environments, and film quality game effects.
GeForce 8800GT Product Highlight The 8800 GT delivers award-winning color clarity with true high definition video. Featuring a unique thermal fansink design that enables XFX to punch up the core clock from the industry standard 625 MHz to 640MHZ, the 8800 GT 512 MB card also stays up to eight degrees cooler in 3-D applications. It also features enhanced fan speed and improved airflow.

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Gigabyte GA-P55M - UD2 Ultra Durable 3 Motherboard Review

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Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This motherboard is great. I just put an I5-750 cpu and 4 gigs G.Skill DDR3 1600 ram, a Nvidia GTX 275 vid card.I'm very surprized at the overall speed increase over my seciondary system which has an Intel Core 2 Duo E8500 duel core in it which is also very fast.This board is packed with high quality parts and a high level of construction. Awesome Overclocking board as well.I was blown away by the low price of this board.This board has been rated by several testing websites as one of the top boards out there for performance and quality.I'm a 18 year pc hardware tech and I build highend gameing pc's and play many pc games both online and off. I would highly recomend this board to anyone that doesn't feel they need a full size board for extra addin PCI boards.This is a Micro board and if you will be putting in a large 2 slot video card you will only have 1 pci slot that is not covered by that card to install any addistional PCI cards you may need.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Gigabyte GA-P55M - UD2 Ultra Durable 3 Motherboard

Gigabyte GA-P55M-UD2 Intel Core i7 / i5/ LGA1156/ 4DDR3-2000/ CrossFire/ GbE/ Raid/ 1394 Micro ATX Motherboard

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Sony Bravia S-Series KDL-46S3000 46-Inch 720p LCD HDTV Review

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Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I bought this Bravia for my dad as gift.
I found stores that has less price than Amazon, but with so many things that can go wrong with flat TV, I decide to stick with largest (more trustworthy??) internet resaler. Overall, I am happy with decent price, no shipping charge, no tax. This TV would have cost me at least 400 more on my local Best Buy or Circuit City.
My dad has strong brand preference to Sony, so I just went with it.
Because of Sony name, this (even though it is lowest priced Sony LCD TV) model probably cost few hundred dollar more expensive than competition.
Generally, this is good TV.
I was debating on getting larger size Plasma or smller size LCD (Sony don't make Plasma anymore)...
I picked LCD even though I sometime feel Plasma is better solution for many reasons.
Size is decent... somewhat small if you view it from more than 10 feet away. Consider your viewing distance before you buy any flat TV. Your TV will last more than 6 years and you might consider buying maximum size you can afford.
This TV is HD, but not full HD. My dad is not technology guy and he is not going to spend money on BlueRay or High Def DVD player...so this fits.
Amazingly, my dad's retirement community doesn't even carry HD on their cable system until next year, so I had to settle for watching regular quality programs.
Here, I don't see any wow's...but everything seems good.
No problem with banding, colors, nor bad pixel...
Lighting sensor is good feature. It really does adjust according to brightness and it makes my eyes more comfortable...although it does become little darker than I would have liked.
Design is good. Not in a sense of modern piece but more in the function. It is very simple and very conservative. But outside frame is thin and it is not reflective (My brother's Samsung has reflective frame and it is sometimes gets in the way of viewing). It is somewhat classic...
Delivery with Amazon via Eagle was great. It came after 6 working days. They unpacked it, put on top of TV stand which I bought from Circuit city, and connected cable to see TV work.
My dad was quite happy with whole process.
One mistake: Eagle didn't know my phone number (I don't know why Amazon didn't provide my number) so I had to call them up to set up delivery date.
Overall, I am quite happy with my purchase, happy with TV, and Amazon buying experience.

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BRAVIA Engine¿ Full Digital Video Processor --- BRAVIA¿ S-Series LCD televisions use Sony's BRAVIA Engine¿ full digital video processor for crisp and clear images. Several special picture enhancement technologies are integrated into the processor to create better gradations and details, enhance contrast, and dynamically improve color. HDMI¿ and PC Connectivity --- Designed for maximum versatility, Sony's BRAVIA S-Series Digital LCD TV line is equipped with a comprehensive range of input interfaces. The HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) is the first industry-supported, uncompressed, all-digital audio/video interface. HDMI technology supports enhanced or High Definition video, together with multi-channel digital audio to provide matchless image and sound reproduction. The PC input (HD-15-pin) offers easy connection to your PC, allowing you to use your high resolution BRAVIA S-Series Digital TV as a computer monitor.

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XITEL HiFi-Link For PC and Mac Review

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Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)So you've digitized your CD collection or listen to internet radio, but are tired with the tinny sound of your computer speakers. "Why can't I use my stereo that's located just 15' away," you ask yourself? Having bought a DVD/CD player that can read .mp3 disks was a reasonable stopgap, but what about internet radio?
If this sounds like you, the HiFi-Link is a must have.
There are three items in the box: (1) a USB cable for your computer to the HiFi Link, (2) the HiFi Link, and (3) a 30' long RCA cable for between the HiFi Link and your stereo. Hookup was reasonably simple (I did get a message that a certain file was not found during installation, but the HiFi-Link still worked). The HiFi Link is small - about the size of fat candybar - so you can stuff it anywhere easily out of sight. The sound quality is great.
On the downside, using the HiFi Link requires you to change your multimedia default sound output to "USB device" instead of your soundcard; this means that everything will play through your stereo (computer games etc) unless you toggle the sound output back to your sound card. A minor inconvenience for the overall utility of digital music on your home stereo.

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As simple as it is affordable, Xitel's HiFi-Link audio processor aims to do but one thing, and well: deliver digital audio from PC and Macintosh computers to otherwise inaccessible home stereo equipment, whether serious "separates" to simple compact stereos. With the HiFi-Link, MP3 files, streaming audio, and Internet radio need no longer be the sole province of your computer, your study, or your--let's face it--substandard computer amplifier and speaker setups.HiFi-Link plugs into any USB port on a computer and into the analog RCA jacks of any stereo system or component. Using its integrated precision DAC (digital-to-analog converter), the HiFi-Link processes digital audio bitstreams directly from the USB connection with no signal degradation. The HiFi-Link bypasses your sound card altogether, turning your computer itself into a powerful hi-fi source. Xitel makes a range of PC-to-MiniDisc interfaces for Sony, so it's no stranger to digital signal flow, product reliability, and proven compatibility. Setup is nearly instantaneous--you don't need to pry panels off your system, modify your hardware, install software, or download drivers. It requires no training or complicated user manuals. Just plug the link into your stereo and your PC, open your media player of choice, and click "play." The HiFi-Link runs with all Windows- and Macintosh-compatible media players, including Windows Media Player, Winamp, RealAudio Player, LiquidAudio Player, MusicMatch Jukebox, iTunes, and many others. What's in the Box DAC/processor, USB cable, a 30-foot studio-quality audio interconnect with gold-plated connectors (minijack to RCA), and a user's manual.

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Asus M2N-SLI Deluxe Green nVIDIA Socket Am2 ATX Motherboard Review

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Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Everything went together and powered up the first time without a hitch. The diagnostic tool is very easy to use and the monitor watches CPU, memory and motherboard temp as well as fan(s) speed and isn't at all buggy like the Epoch board I was using. I've never tried overclocking but it looks like there's a lot that can be done with the BIOS in that regard. I'm really glad I picked this board!!

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The Asus M2N-SLI Deluxe NVIDIA nForce 570 SLI MCP comes from the AI Lifestyles Series line of motherboards that is designed to bring lifestyle and personal computing together. This motherboard provides better system performance for graphics-intensive applications, such as 3D games, and delivers cutting edge audio features that dramatically enhances the quality of voice signal. Thoughtful design further allows quick and easy setup, and to create a peaceful environment, several innovations are included to reduce noise and temperature.
The Power of NVIDIA nForce For high-performance gaming, the M2N-SLI is built with the NVIDIA nForce 570 SLI MCP (media and communication processors). This MCP features AMD Socket AM2 processor support, 1 GHz HyperTransport link, and revolutionary NVIDIA SLI (Scalable Link Interface). Together with six Serial ATA ports--enabled through the SATA 3 Gbps RAID controller, Dual Gigabit LAN controllers, and High Definition Audio Interface--the NVIDIA MCP delivers exceptional performance and satisfies all your gaming graphic's demands. SLI takes advantage of the increased bandwidth of the PCI Express bus architecture, and features intelligent hardware and software that allows two GPUs (Graphics Processor Units) to efficiently work together to deliver earth-shattering, scalable performance. For some applications you'll get nearly double the performance.
Performance, Noise, and Cooling Features To balance both system performance and quietness, this motherboard features AI Gear that allows you to choose from profiles to adjust CPU frequency and CPU core voltage to minimize system noise and power consumption. You can even change the mode in real-time under your operating system to suit your needs. The motherboard is also built with AI Nap that instantly snoozes the PC without terminating the tasks. The system will continue operating at minimum power and noise whenever you're temporarily away. However, it keeps downloading files or running applications in it's quietest state possible to minimize unwanted noise and distractions. Simply click the keyboard or mouse and you can swiftly wake up the system in just a few seconds.
The M2N-SLI also includes an Asus array mic. The bundled Superbeam Array Microphone only receives the sound coming from the reception cone, and ignores the sound coming from other directions. This mechanism eliminates a large number of interferences including neighboring speakers and reverberations. It also uses advanced de-reverberation techniques to reduce echo and minimize its effect on the speech engine. This feature, along with Asus's Crystal Sound, can enhance speed-centric applications, such as Skype, online gaming, video conferences, and recordings. In addition, this motherboard can detect repetitive and stationary noises, such as computer fans, air conditioners, and other background distractions, then eliminate this white noise from the incoming audio stream to deliver the best possible sound recording.
Lastly, this motherboard features a fanless design that provides a cool environment without all the noisy baggage. Cooling fans, though a popular thermal solution, also come with noise pollution and a higher malfunction likelihood. Asus has devoted special efforts to address the thermal issues across the motherboard, and, most notably, the areas where the CPU, power, VGA, and chipsets reside. The heat pipe and heat sinks were tailor made to dissipate heat in the most efficient manner.
CPU Features The M2N-SLI Deluxe supports AMD socket AM2 single core Athlon 64/Sempron and dual-care Athlon 64 X2/Athlon 64 FX processors with 2MB, 1MB, and 512KB L2 cache, which is based on 64-bit architecture. The advanced processing technology contains two physical CPU cores with individually dedicated L2 caches to satisfy the rising demand for more powerful processing capability. It features 2000/1600 MTs HyperTransport Bus, dual-channel unbuffered DDR2 800 memory support, and AMD Cool 'n' Quiet Technology. DDR2 is the next generation memory technology to replace the current DDR, and with the highest speeds clocking at up to 800 MHz, DDR2 memory provides great performance for 3D graphics and other memory demanding applications.
The Asus M2N-SLI Deluxe NVIDIA nForce 570 SLI MCP Motherboard is loaded with great features, functions, and connectivity. It is designed to maximize gaming performance, improve graphic viewing, and deliver the best possible audio quality. This motherboard is easy to install on your own, and is packed with interface features, such as dual gigabit LAN, high-definition audio, IEEE 1394a, plenty of back panel ports, and much more.
What's in the Box One SLI bridge, one ASUS Q-Connector Kit, one ASUS Array Mic, one UltraDMA 133/100/66 cable, one Floppy disk drive cable, six SATA cables, three SATA power cable for six devices, one 2-port USB 2.0 module, one IEEE1394a port module, one x I/O Shield, an InterVideo Media Launcher (OEM version only), and a user's manual.

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Sherwood Newcastle R-771 - AV receiver - 7.1 channel Review

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Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)1st off everything works as it should, inputs decoding remote room set up no quirks that I have happened into. The biggest thing is the lack of power I have it in a smallish room 150 ft2 or so and it will play as loud as you would like it but there is no extra power, no way this has a hundred watts per channel. That being said the sound is quite good and for the price I don't think you can beat it.

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Sherwood Newcastle R-771 7.1 Surround Sound Receiver - This surround sound receiver delivers the latest in home theater audio. Supporting 8 speakers for an incredibly immersive home movie experience. For advanced users, you get such goodies as XM Radio connectivity, 3 100MHz component video outputs, RS-232 control, an advanced remote control with macro commands, and much more.XM Radio ConnectivityAutomatic Format Detection192 kHz 24-bit DAC's for all channelsXover frequency selectable at 40Hz to 120Hz in 20Hz incrementsAutomatic Speaker Setup with supplied microphoneRoom EQOperating System is upgradeable via RS-232Universal Video upconverts Composite and S-Video to Component VideoA/V Synch DelayDiscrete On/Off IR Codes2 Optical & 2 Coaxial Digital InputsDigital OutputOn-Screen Display32-Bit TI Processor12 DSP ModesRoom 2 A/V Output with fixed/variable audio levelRear Center amps assignable to Room-2 feed3 HDTV-ready Component Video InputsComponent Video Output3 Rear Panel A/V Inputs2 Audio InputsFront Panel A/V InputsCinema HQDynamic Range ControlHeavy Duty Speaker Binding30 Station PresetsSleep TimerUnit Dimensions - 17 3/8 (w) x 5 (h) x 15 (d)

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Canon DC310 DVD Camcorder with 37x Optical Zoom Review

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Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)The overview states that this includes 'USB 2.0 hi-speed terminal for quick video transfer'. Read the detail section and there is no mention of a USB port, because there is none! You need to buy the DC330 to get that feature. That would not be so bad if the R- RW would work in any of our PC's or DVD players. Granted the DVD players are older modules but the PC's are less than 1 year old. Maybe if your PC writes to R- or you stick with none rewritable DVD's you would be happy with this camcorder (didn't waste any more money trying this). This module is being returned and replaced with the DC330.

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Includes Canon 2694B001 DC310 DVD Camcorder Compact Power Adapter CA-570 Battery Pack NB-2LH Stereo/Video Cable STV-250N.

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JVC RX-D205S 7.1-Channel Home Theater Receiver with USB PC Link and Game Mode, Silver Review

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Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)First off, I bought this mainly for music listening, but I will be using it for movies also.
I always had personal a problem with digital receivers...they had clarity but lacked warmth and a powerful sound. Let me tell you, this has everything I like in a sound... digital clarity, no distortion, but yet it does not sacrifice warmth and presence- better described as a powerful sound.
To be straight forward, the sound quality for this is awsome!!!
My set up with this is my computer, using FLAC files because I am an audiophile, through usb. The price is amazing for what I got! This unit sounds better than a Sony ES receiver that I listened to at a store that cost over $1000.00.
I am so glad I bought this. Furthermore, I cant believe I got a such a good deal at the price it goes for. Take it from a picky person for audio, this unit gets the job done far beyond the call of duty.
Yay JVC!
Advantages
-JVCs Hybrid Feedback technology!
-Digital Clarity
-Strong Highs
-Strong and tight base
-Sound has warmth and power to it...does not sound like a typical steriledigital source that lacks fullness.
-Price and value...what a steal for what your getting!
-USB Connection
Cons
- Wish USB was in the back.
- Wish the appearance was as fancy as it's previous model, the jvc rx f10.

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Surround speakers don't amount to much without a quality receiver, and this JVC 7.1-channel model plays the role perfectly. Equipped with a full complement of surround decoders, including Dolby Digital EX, DTS (ES, Neo:6, and 96/24), and Dolby Pro Logic (II and IIx)--the receiver breathes life into home theater audio, delivering spectacularly crisp, explosive sound for both movies and music. The decoded formats are complemented by JVC's digital audio processor (DAP), which creates dynamic audio soundstages that mimic the acoustics of the most popular live venues. Among the multichannel DAP selections are Theater, Hall, Dance Club, Live Club, and Pavilion.
Internally, the receiver is equipped with a hybrid feedback digital amplifier (version III) and a DSP digital equalizer. The amp runs at 770 watts of total power (110 watts x 7 in surround mode, 110 watts x 2 in stereo mode), which should satisfy all but the largest listening environments. To create an even wider sound field, the receiver offers a virtual surround back function that simulates the effect of a rear surround speaker even if you don't own one. And if you're not quite ready to upgrade to full surround but want to keep your options open, you can employ the receiver's 3D Phonic virtual surround function, which simulates the dynamic realism of full surround sound through your system's stereo speakers.
Busy listeners will appreciate the RX-D205S's AV Compu Link function, which facilitates simple one-touch coordination between your JVC audio and video components. Simply pop a DVD into your JVC DVD player and the RX-D205S automatically activates the receiver and TV while switching them to the proper modes. Meanwhile, people who live in large households will delight in the 3-D Headphone feature, which creates an out-of-the-box surround effect through any ordinary pair of stereo headphones (not included). The receiver even lets you stream audio directly from your computer using its USB PC link, which works with both PCs and Macs.
The RX-D205S isn't just for music and movie fans, as it also offers a Game mode that's designed to enhance the gaming experience. The game mode offers four different settings--RPG (role-playing game), sport, action, and night--each of which creates a customize sound field for the genre type.
Components connect to the unit through its comprehensive series of inputs and outputs, including three digital audio inputs (two optical, one coaxial), four analog audio inputs, and two analog audio outputs. The RX-D205S also acts as an audio/video switcher, with two component video inputs and one output, three S-video inputs and three outputs, and three composite inputs and three outputs.
The RX-D205S is backed by a two-year warranty on parts and labor.
What's in the Box Receiver, remote control, AM and FM antennas, user's manual.

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