Panamax AMAX Max64 3200+

In our graphics tests, the ATI Radeon 9800 Pro graphics card with 128MB of DDR SDRAM helped the system hit high frame rates in our Unreal Tournament 2003 tests at high resolutions, though below the rates we've seen from a few gaming systems (like the Falcon Northwest Ultra 5950).

We did find some weak spots, however. The 19-inch Impression 9LSP LCD that arrived with our review unit delivered inconsistent image quality. In each of our image quality tests, we had to adjust (and readjust) the screen's color. Colors on a test photo appeared too dark and skin tones looked unnatural at default settings, even after we used the auto-adjust function. After fiddling with menu controls and separate RGB controls, we eventually obtained acceptable image quality. The monitor's text quality was far better, with crisp lettering, though again we had to make adjustments to achieve results we liked.

The audio subsystem is second-rate for a power PC, consisting of an integrated sound chip teamed with a set of Creative Inspire 2.1 2500 speakers. The two satellites and lightweight subwoofer were easy to set up, but when we cranked up the volume, bass notes sounded hollow and echoey while trebles were thin and twangy.

Upshot: Amax's entry into the 64-bit fray offers nice speed for the price, but the monitor and sound system could stand upgrading.

Mick Lockey