Sound & Vision has published an article looking into today’s Windows Media Center PCs and what they have to offer for home theater setups. It’s definitely true that MCE boxes and HTPC systems in general have come a long way over the last few years. Gone are the days of computer towers and loud whirring fans. Nowadays, some modern MCE systems will even resemble stereo components. Plus – Windows Media Center itself has become much more reliable and dare we say easy to use?

S&V take a look at two systems specifically – the HP z556 Digital Entertainment Center which retails for around $1500, and the Sony VGX-XL1 Digital Living System which retails for around $2300.

Here is S&V’s verdict on the HP Digital Entertainment Center:

Considering its three tuners, FM radio, superb handling of HDTV programs, and everything else this Media Center PC does, the $1,500 z556 is a great value.

The Sony system is more expensive but it also includes a crazy external 200 CD/DVD changer. Here’s S&V’s verdict:

Sony has introduced some unique features to the Media Center, including the abilities to rip CDs in bulk, readily copy a whole library of TV shows to multiple discs, and, best of all, manage a big DVD collection with ease and elegance.

[Check it out via eHomeUpgrade.com]

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