Hi-Grade DMS II 3400

Connecting the system to your home network is simple - either use the wired LAN or integrated 802.11g Wi-Fi. It's the same Intel PRO/2200BG mini-PCI card used in most Centrino notebooks, and the aerial is integrated into the chassis for extra neatness.

Comparing the specifications and performance results, the DMS II 3400 is better equipped than the Artisan LX and even more powerful. On the downside, it costs more because of this, and still uses the original DMS infrared keyboard/trackball combo, which needs line-of-sight to operate. Plus, there's a two-year, collect-and-return warranty with the DMS II - a year less than that offered by Elonex.

It's also worth bearing in mind that the DMS 3000 (see issue 125, p108) is still available, and has dropped in price by £100 to £899. But the real choice is still between the Elonex Artisan and the DMS II 3400. Both have eight-channel audio, high-speed DVD writers and dual tuners, although the Elonex costs £149 less (but you can buy the DMS II with 512MB of RAM for £935). While personal taste comes into play, the DMS II is better designed, both internally and externally. It runs cooler, theoretically leading to longer component life and, of more everyday use, even displays more information on the front panel. As such, it takes a place on the A List as our Media Center PC of choice.

Author: Jim Martin