2005-01-17 - GigaHz: "A clear cut winner!"

GigaHz, a large computer magazine from UK tested several SFF systems. Included in the roundup were 2 systems built by Mesh and MV on the basis of Shuttle XPC Barebones.

About the Mesh Media Cubex: "With a fast, cool-running processor, a high-performance graphics card and a digital
terrestrial TV tuner all enclosed in one of Shuttle's neat mini-cubes, the Cubex64 is exceptionally good value." Another thing that impressed the editors was that the Mesh Media Cubex can make itself at home almost anywhere. "It looks beautiful beside a TV or running on its own detailed, high-precision ViewSonic monitor. This would be a good choice for anybody living in a flat or bedsit, as it takes up very little room."

Result:

GigaHz rating: 4 out of 5 stars (1st place)

"A clear cut winner, providing a true SFF PC, which is quite cool and quiet, with monitor and speakers, at a price others struggle to meet. GigaHz group test winner."

About the MV Cubik Game Pro Media: "This is another take on the Shuttle XPC Barebone cube and follows much of the same thinking as Mesh. Using the same processor, DVD rewriter, and TV-Tuner, you might wonder where the extra cost comes in - we did. There's twice as much memory and a faster graphics card[.]" But the real power shows itself off when it comes to gaming: "The main strength is its 3D performance, which knocks the socks off the other machines in the group. To play top-class games, this is a great machine."

Result:

GigaHz rating:  3 of 5 stars (3rd place)

"There's no doubt Shuttle's latest take on the barebones cube is both good-looking and well-equipped - MV has finished it of well. If games performance is your prime consideration, you won't do much better in a small form factor."