Dell Studio Desktop

Media-ready machine has some limitations

DELL'S $1,129 STUDIO DESKTOP LOOKS and behaves exactly like what it is: an uneasy blend of midrange and home-theater components that results in a less-than-
cohesive machine.

Glossy black on the top and front panels and gunmetal gray on the side, the system's looks lean toward sedate. But its size definitely makes an impression; don't expect to easily fit this computer into your entertainment center. (A version using Dell's slimmer case style is also available.)

Still, the Studio Desktop offers some healthy connectivity, including a 15-in-1 card reader, two FireWire ports, six USB ports, seven-channel audio, and an
external 802.11n wireless adapter. The 2.33GHz Intel Core 2 Quad Q8200 processor makes it a potent performer, in large part because its 64 bit version of Windows Vista Home Premium can take advantage of every bit of its 4GB of DDR2 RAM. A 256MB ATI Radeon HD 3650 graphics and packs a modest punch, and the 640GB hard drive is a decent size for use with Vista's Media Center software and the included Hauppauge HVR1250 TV tuner.

Unfortunately, although our test system's motherboard had an HDMI-out port, it was equipped with just a standard DVD burner and no Blu-ray drive; you can add one, but you'll need to shell out at least $200 more. Expansion potential is also limited: There's only one free PC1 slot, and the cramped case layout makes
installing a second hard drive in the sole available internal bay difficult.



On our benchmark tests, the Studio Desktop proved mostly adept at everyday media chores and could even handle basic 3D gaming at reasonable frame rates. For heavy 3D tasks, the Studio Desktop isn't the best, but it remains a solid choice for a starter home theater PC.-M.M.

www.dell.com
Computer Shopper January 2009