SONY PCG-NV290 VAIO(R) Notebook

Rating:
Summary: NV series sets an example for all over VAIO notebooks
Review: The NV290 has some very redeeming features despite its weight, which is closer to 10 pounds not 14. All of the NV series notebooks that use the Intel processors are QUIET. I purchased a 2.6 GHz VAIO notebook and it was so noisy I decided to stay with the NV290.

-The compact woofer module delivers a full sound that is more like a boombox than a notebook (The 2.6GHz GRX680 model sounded like a pair of loud headphones.) I think every VAIO notebook needs a compact woofer for movies and music.

-Another small but overlooked feature on the NV290 is a rotary volume knob on the side! (Another feature that should be standard and was lacking on the GRX680.)

-I love the 8X DVD read speed on the Toshiba DVD drive for ripping movies (the noisy GRX I bought had only 5X)

-The NV290 offers an AV OUT jack (mini) for connecting the notebook to a TV or DV camera via composite video. If you reduce the resolution on that output closer to that of the analog TV you get a decent picture on almost any TV!

-Finally, the unit feels solid and durable. (The GRX touchpad was chinsy and felt hollow.) This rare notebook series is one of a kind and I lament the day I have to "upgrade" :)