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General discussion

Need help in buying a media computer

Jul 14, 2005 10:26AM PDT

I am looking to buy a new computer w/LCD monitor that will handle the video/digital photo editing I do with my small home business. My budget is around $2300. My 4 1/2 year old Gateway is about ready to retire. I have had to replace the power supply/fan twice, floppy drive once and a few other minor fix-ups, but their tech support was right there to talk me through it and replace everything. (Tech Support is very important to me.) I am looking at Gateway's FX400 with Window's Media Center. Also looked at Dell's 9100 Deminsion (but not too pleased with what I read about their tech support). I could use your help with what other models/brands that would be comparable with these two. Also, give me your opinions on "Windows Media Center". Thanks!

Discussion is locked

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(NT) (NT) eMachines T6522
Jul 14, 2005 10:39AM PDT
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lets just say i love my GATEWAY :)
Jul 14, 2005 10:51AM PDT

um, when i was shopping for my computer, i started at looking at building my own shuttle xpc. scared off by some wiring thing not explained in manual made me think twice about building. it was narrowed between velocity micro and a store bought pc. i went with the store bought pc gateway 820gm media center. it didnt disapoint me! i wanted it just for gaming and i sure did pick the right pc. btx was my fav. buying point. using speed fan keeps everything below 50 degrees celcious even while gaming. i love gateways tech support chat. i asked them like 20 ?'s about my mobos upgradability, power supply, and power supply. i turned this oem pc into a gaming powerhouse.

back onto your choice lol

the FX400 has dual core, which is good for future use. the btx case is extremely quiet! 2 120mm fans will keep this pc cool and quiet. emachines, well the celeron model i have, is loud. its all the power supply but im not puting money into that.i am not saying emachine is bad because they are built solid like gateway.

you will get btx with gateway which will suite your media needs. it also COMES with a control.

konny

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Another to look at
Jul 14, 2005 12:58PM PDT

You have looked at Gateway and Dell with Dual-Core, now take a look at Hewitt-Packard Window Media Center with Dual-Core:

HP d4100e series
For AMD Athlon 64 x2 Dual-Core Processor
http://tinyurl.com/cwq6g
Customize:
http://tinyurl.com/w4rz

HP d4100y series
For Intel Pentium D Processors Dual-Core
http://tinyurl.com/92cd8
Customize:
http://tinyurl.com/w4rz


HP m7170n Dual Core
Pent D 830
At Best Buy:
http://tinyurl.com/cwmec

At Circuit City:
http://tinyurl.com/doouy

HP m7160n Dual Core
Pent D 820
At Best Buy:
http://tinyurl.com/96p3h

At Circuity City:
http://tinyurl.com/c3ygs

Can get your LCD Monitor at Newegg. Check out the Acer with low nm and low prices.

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RE:
Jul 14, 2005 1:05PM PDT

Yep, i like those hp d4100s. I have one of the older versions of those, the sa4000T. If you're going to get them, just know they're huge, and they have a junk 400watt psu and can only accomadate 1 80mm case fan i think. As for the gateway, i dk about the btx case, how much does it really help in terms of cooling? The only advantage i see is noise, which isn't much quieter than an antec p180 or sonata case.
Roger

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Thanks for the info on HP's, but.........
Jul 15, 2005 1:47AM PDT

my daughter bought a HP Pavilion 764 from Circut City 2 years ago, she has had to send it back in twice because of shut down problems. HP never did give her the installation CD's until the second time she sent it back. The computer seems to handle the all the things she needs to do, including gaming, burning cd's & dvd's & multitasking. (when it's running properly)

I would consinder HP if I knew I could receive all the installation CD's and it wouldn't have the problems my daughter has had with hers.

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Hmm..........
Jul 15, 2005 3:25AM PDT

Assume you are looking at the new dual-core processors and right now Dell, Gateway, HP/Compaq, have some fine one in the $2300 range. This is 2005 and the technology has improved. I would not hesitate in purchasing any one of the three brands. Your excuses are really weak IMO.

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RE:
Jul 15, 2005 11:10AM PDT

With a HP/Compaq, the recovery console is on the hard drive, you can get but $$$. Create your own, comes with easy to use program to create your own backup disc.

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Need help in buying a media computer
Jul 15, 2005 2:51AM PDT

Get a good PC with XP on it and add your own multi-media to it. ATIs HD wonder works good in XP has problems in MCE.
If you do but a XP MCE make sure it comes with a TV turner in it, Adding one later to MCE is not a fun thing to do as choices are VERY limited.
3 party software is better that whats in MCE.
I will admit that over all I'm under whelmed with MCE.
"I have had to replace the power supply/fan twice, floppy drive once and a few other minor fix-ups"
This not realy all that bad for 4.5 years. John

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Thanks for your replies. I made my choice and bought.....
Jul 17, 2005 12:48AM PDT

the HP m7170m media center with the Samsung 19 inch flat panel digital monitor. I ended up buying this at Best Buy and getting their 3 year "Geek Squad" warranty. I am still under the $2400. I think I will be very happy with my choice. (even though I have been a total Dell and Gateway person). Thanks again everyone.