Gateway FX510XL

This midsize tower model has two 160GB hard drives configured in a striped RAID array, a multicard reader that accepts eight media formats, and one double-layer DVD burner. The front of the case provides three USB 2.0 and two FireWire ports, as well as headphone and microphone jacks. In back, the system includes an abundance of additional connections: four USB 2.0, one FireWire, two audio-in, two audio-out, one microphone, one digital audio-out, one coaxial audio, and one serial.

After you undo a big latch and remove a thumbscrew, the case opens easily. The FX510XL provides well-arranged cables and good access to the slots and bays, though reaching the memory sockets is a bit tight. This is the only machine of the group of six to offer an available and accessible PCI Express x16 slot; it also has one PCI slot, an internal drive bay, and an externally accessible drive bay open. This Windows XP Media Center-based system provides an FM antenna (but no TV tuner) and integrated 7.1-channel sound, as well. (An ATI Theater 550 Pro TV tuner with wireless remote control costs an additional $100.)

The basic, black, 19-inch Gateway FPD1965 LCD monitor has both VGA analog and DVI connections. I liked the FX510XL's keyboard and mouse best among the group: The keyboard has a padded wrist rest, and the mouse is well sized, with a nice tacky material that is easy to grip.

Gateway's FX510XL combines strong performance with top design. The PC's main drawback is its relatively high price, but with its overall attention to detail, this system is a joy.

Dan Sommer