WHAT'S HOT: A digital-imaging dream machine, the 7000Z packs 256MB of SDRAM, a huge 60GB hard drive, a 16X DVD-ROM drive, a 12X/4X/32X CD-RW drive, an IEEE 1394 port, and a network adapter into a midsize tower case. Its 1200-MHz Athlon processor and 266-MHz frontside bus (the bus that passes information from the CPU to the main memory) delivered a scorching PC WorldBench 2000 score of 176. With a 19-inch monitor, this Presario makes a decidedly attractive package.

The Compaq MV940 monitor displayed rich color saturation and high refresh rates at resolutions up to 1600 by 1200, while text at 1280 by 1024 was clearly legible as well. From the outset, you'll appreciate the Presario 7000Z's thoughtful design. A front portion of the tower pops out to reveal a storage area for up to five CDs. Above this area sits an IEEE 1394 and two USB ports for connecting peripherals, such as digital cameras, more easily. To get inside the tool-less case, we simply held down a latch and pulled open the side plate. Inside the case, you'll see a drive door lock, which provides access to a series of tool-less drive bays, which should make upgrades or servicing that much easier (only the hard-drive bay is not tool-less).

WHAT'S NOT: In PC World's annual reader-based Reliability and Service survey, Compaq received a rating of Poor for reliability and Fair for customer service. The one-year parts and labor warranty is relatively short, compared with those provided by other vendors.

WHAT ELSE: Compaq's sturdy multimedia keyboard has LEDs that light up to indicate, among other information, that new e-mail has arrived or that the PC has gone to sleep, plus oversize arrow keys and audio and Internet controls. A set of detachable JBL Platinum speakers flanks the Compaq MV940 monitor and features connections for headphones or a portable audio device; the sound from these speakers has good depth and clarity. The software bundle includes the basics: Microsoft Word 2000, Adaptec Easy CD Creator, Quicken TurboTax, and Pinnacle Studio DV (a video-editing package).

BEST USE: Newcomers to the digital-imaging realm should take a serious look at this well-priced, well-stocked, and easy-to-set-up system.

SUMMARY

Compaq Presario 7000Z PC WorldBench 2000 score of 176, Athlon-1200 CPU, 256MB of DDR SDRAM, 256KB L2 cache, Windows Me, 60GB hard drive, 16X DVD-ROM drive, 12X/4X/32X CD-RW drive, Creative Labs 3D Annihilator 2 Ultra graphics card with 32MB of SGRAM, 19-inch Compaq MV940 monitor, Creative Labs Sound Blaster Live CT4830 sound board, JBL Platinum Series speakers, V.90 modem, IEEE 1394 adapter, network adapter, midsize tower case, Microsoft Word 2000, Microsoft Money 2001, Adaptec Easy CD Creator, Quicken TurboTax. One-year parts and labor warranty; unlimited 24-hour toll-free tech support. $1935 800/345-1518 www.compaq.com