2005-03-22 - Personal Computer World: "The concept is a winner"
 Launched in the UK last January, the Shuttle XPC System G5 8300M is the latest entry in Shuttle's new lineup of fully-configured systems. The first Media Center PC from Shuttle, it was reviewed in the April edition of Personal Computer World (UK.) With good looks and performance to match, it's no wonder that the editors concluded their review thusly: "All in all, we [were] impressed with this well-built and stylish system. If you're looking for a Media Center PC that's perfect for the home office or living room, it's a tempting choice."
"Just as Hoover is now the universal name for vacuum cleaners, so Shuttle has become synonymous with do-it-yourself small form factor (SFF) PCs" writes Personal Computer World (UK.) "To stay one step ahead of the competition, [Shuttle] has now launched its own pre-built machines." The latest in the series, Shuttle's XPC System G5 8300M [Media Center Edition] is "perfect for people who want a space-saving system without having to built one from scratch."
Given that a media center PC is meant to make its home in the living room, "style is as important as specifications when it comes to SFF PCs. With its black aluminium cover and mirrored front panels, the G5 8300M looks the part." For its G5 8300M Shuttle also included a Versatile Front Panel Display (VFD) that "displays media information relating to the current mode… [which] adds that extra touch." In addition to the good build quality evident outside the machine, the editors also praised Shuttle's work on the inside: "The high built quality continues […] with all cables clipped out of the way." Shuttle's work in the area of thermal and noise management was also once again singled out. After turning on the system, note the editors of PCW, noise "settles down to a barely audible level."
Conclusion:
"All in all, we [were] impressed with this well-built and stylish system. If you’re looking for a Media Center PC that’s perfect for the home office or the living room, it’s a tempting choice."
Pros:
Small and stylish
Verdict:
"The XPC G5 8300M is a great start for Shuttle’s fully built range."
| Features: |
4/5 |
| Performance: |
4/5 (Sysmark 2004: 178/200) |
| Value for money: |
4/5 |
| Overall: |
4/5 |
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