Media Server Reviews

Features
Supported Audio Formats: MP3, WMA
Memory Cards Slots: Compact Flash Types I and II, IBM
MicroDrive, Smart Media, MultiMedia, Secure Digital,
Memory Stick, Memory Stick Pro, xD-Picture Card
Hard-drive capacity: 250 gigabytes (more hard drive space is available)
Dimensions (H x W x D, inches): 6 x 17 x 18.1
Weight (pounds): 26
Price: $2,848

Connections
Inputs:
Video: S-video (1), composite (1 each on the video ATI breakout box)
Audio: analog stereo mini-jack (1)
Outputs:
Video: DVI (1), S-video (1), composite (1)
Audio: digital coaxial (1), digital optical (1), 5.1-channel analog (1 set, via three stereo mini-jacks)
Additional:
VGA (1), Ethernet port (1), phone jack (1), USB 2.0 (6), FireWire (2), Com1 Serial (1), mic in (2)

Ratings

Alienware DHS-321 PC

Build Quality: 90
A substantial aluminum chassis that is both stackable and pleasing to the touch

Value: 86
Do-it-yourselfers could assemble similar components for less money, but where else would they acquire this sweet black domicile?

Features: 87
Burns all of the Rs, RWs, and even RAM
Plays DVDs, MP3s, and even PC games, but not DVD-Audio or SACD

Performance: 84
Response tends to be slower than traditional living-room CE devices
DVDs looked good but not eye-popping

Ergonomics: 89
Ample front-panel ports and the inspired LCD earn big points, but the less-than-perfect OS and a hit-and-miss remote take their toll

Overall Rating: 86
A well-built, cleverly designed, and powerful PC that offers all of the options that both home theater and computing buffs would expect, although some rough edges might not yet make this pricey, sexy box an ideal fit for the living room.

General Information
DHS-321 PC, $2,848
Alienware
(800) 254-3692
www.alienware.com