compare Media Center Computer Product

We looked at media center computers with high-end components and DVR capability. A good media center is suitable for everything your desktop PC can do and more. HD Video on the HD TV in the living room? Gaming? Keeping in touch on MySpace? Check, check and check. A media center does it all. Media Centers start at around $1000 and can run as high as $4000.

Media centers perform best with multi-core processors, high–end 256MB+ graphics cards, and 4GB or more of RAM. A massive hard drive is also critical. If you plan on digitizing your multimedia library, you’ll want 300GB, 500GB or a TB (terabyte) hard drive.

Below are the criteria TopTenREVIEWS used to evaluate Media Center PCs:

• Processor: Top–rated media centers have dual and quad-core processors. Multiple core processing ensures that multitasking doesn’t slow your computer down. Feel like recording TV and playing World of Warcraft at the same time? With a fast multi-core processor, your computer won’t even flinch.
• Memory: Media Centers require a hard drive large enough to store large amounts of audio and video files. We suggest at least 300GB of storage. In terms of RAM, 2GB will run most applications smoothly, but to really maximize your HD experience, 4GB should be considered a minimum.
• Video/ Audio: A high–quality graphics card is imperative for playing Blu-rays, DVDs, TV, digital video or games. Generally, you should look for a dedicated 256MB video card and 5.1 to 7.1 surround sound ability.
• I/O Devices: Media centers should provide all ports or connections necessary to connect to TVs, cable television, stereos and peripherals such as video cameras. Most provide several types of audio and video options. They should also come with a wireless keyboard/ mouse combo and a remote control.
• Price/ Value: This criterion compares the suggested retail price to the included features. A good system with a low price rates better than an average PC with a higher base price.
• Support/ Warranty: The first–class manufacturers provide quality help and support through email, phone and online chat. They also provide up to three-year warranties at no additional cost.