Interesting System, But Has Major Drawbacks

These "all-in-ones" have began to appeal to a lot of people over the last few years, but you really need to understand what you are getting (and getting into) when you buy one of these.

First of all, Sony generally makes a high quality computer and this is no exception. The system has one major drawback as far as quality is concerned and that relates to the power supplies, which seem to have a relatively short lifespan on these models.

In any case, this review is about this specific system and these types of systems in general.

If you are looking at buying this system, you are probably doing so for the asthetics and the relatively small amount of desktop space that it takes up. Just remember that you are trading off performance (on a system of this price anyway) and upgradeability. Also remember that you could get a notebook computer in this same price range, with similar performance and have a truly portable system.

As to the performance: This system is just not as quick as you might expect based on the specifications. In my opinion, it is a serious underperformer.

Upgradeability: Minimal. Chock full of proprietary parts that cost more than they are worth to replace (the screen for instance costs over 1200.00 to replace if it gets damaged), this unit likely won't have any future motherboard upgrades at all and even the bios doesn't support all the processors within the product line. You CAN upgrade to a larger hardrive, although it would be easier to go with an USB external.

The number one thing that you should keep in mind is that you are buying a status symbol or a piece of art here more than you are buying a serious computer system that is going to be around for a while. Make sure that you get an extended warranty AND THE INSURANCE plan, because if you get this sytem damaged, it can cost more to fix than to replace. Personally, I would go with a notebook over a unit like this because you also get the added benefit of portability, although you might have a 17" screen instead of 19".

If you are really looking for a desktop system, consider something with an external monitor and more options in the upgrade department.