While the idea of Microsoft's Media Center is appealing, many of these systems are pricey given their overall performance. PC World is hoping to address this with the Advent MC3040 - a complete system for just £799.

It's clear that some corners have been cut to reach this price, but this isn't immediately obvious. The Advent's vertical slimline case is more attractive than most. That said, due to a cooling vent on the side, stacking it horizontally or under the TV may end up cooking the components. Vertical operation also makes the tray-loading DVD writer awkward and unsightly.

The inside is based around an Intel Pentium 4 with 512MB of DDR Ram and a Geforce 5200 with 128MB provides the graphics. The 160GB hard disk is also small for a machine designed to record TV and store your photo and music collection.

PC World has included an analogue TV tuner and Philips 5.1 speakers for surround sound. A 17in Philips TFT completes the picture.

A wireless keyboard and mouse help keep lead clutter down, but the receiver is a chunky external box and steals a USB port, as does the sensor for the remote control.

As expected, the system put in an unremarkable performance, and isn't suited for gaming fans. However, it covers all the other bases and will let you exploit Windows Media Center Edition.

Contact:
PC World 08705 464 464
www.pcworld.co.uk

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