- Strong Software Package
- Integrates with 200 Disc Changer
- Lacks Analog Tuner
- Older Pentium D Processor
- Intel Pentium D 920 Dual Core Processor
- 1GB PC2-4200 DDR2 Memory
- Two 160GB 7200rpm SATA Hard Drives
- 200 Disc Changer with Dual Layer DVD Burner
- NVIDIA GeForce 6600 Graphics with 128MB Memory and HDMI Output
- Intel HDA 7.1 Audio
- Gigabit Ethernet and 802.11b/g Wireless
- ATSC Digital Tuner
- Four USB 2.0, Three iLink (FireWire) and 4-in-1 Card Reader
- Windows XP MCE, VAIO Suite, MS Works, Photoshop Elements, WinDVD, Digital Media SE
12/4/06 – Sony's VAIO VGX-XL2 is an upgrade from the initial XL1 model. The system uses the Intel Pentium D 920 dual core processor, but this is a fairly low end processor in today's market. It would be nice to see Sony upgrade the system to the newer Core 2 Duo processors for better performance and efficiency. The gigabyte of DDR2 memory provides the system with enough for most tasks but it can get bogged down in certain video processing tasks such as creating DVDs.
Storage is critical to home theater systems and Sony does provide a decent amount of space. The 320GB of total storage space is equal to what is found in many desktop PCs, but it is done through the use of two 160GB hard drives. This should provide adequate space for recording video, but with the digital HD tuner included it is actually a bit small. A setup of a single large drive or two slightly larger drives would provide better overall storage.
One of the unique features of the VGX-XL2 system is the 200-disc changer unit that is external to the main system. This unit allows users to load in their large library or music and video discs into the unit for permanent storage. The external unit also has the ability to daisy chain four additional units together for a total storage capacity of 1000 discs. This makes it great as a media storage library, but the extra units would quickly drive up the price.
Graphics are key to home theater PCs and the VGX-XL2 uses the NVIDIA GeForce 6600LE graphics card with integrated HDMI. This allows the system to be connected into a compatible HDTV or an LCD monitor with a HDMI to DVI adapter. Performance is decent for 3D but not overwhelming.
