Advice

[Lorddiagram]

I think I am about to buy the EPCdirect computer system. I have checked out many other computers and this one seems to be a good deal. What do you all think?

Celeron 400mhz
64 MB PC100 SDRAM
6.0 GB Ultra ATA
44x cd-rom
56k modem
etc..

the computer is at www.epcdirect.com

for $349 upfront and you agree to pay $21 a month for net service for one year. Looks good to me.

Questions:
1. Does any one know how expandable this computer is?
2. Can you install two full-duplex soundcards and record four tracks at once using cakewalk pro audio8? I know the inputs aren't the best, but just wondering.

Thanks,

Ld

 

[JKountz]

My advice would be to find out exactly what motherboard is in the PC and pay a visit to their website for detailed specs on it. This will tell you what if any expansion slots are available as well as a slew of other useful information about the system. Maybe some of the other more experienced folks in this list could tell you more about the feasability of two full duplex soundcards. Im not to slick on these things yet. Hope this helps!

 

[Slackmaster2K]

Umm. I'd avoid it. There is NO mention of the type of motherboard or any of the components other than the modem. Most likely this is due to the fact that they, like most really cheap OEMs, use the cheapest hardware they can find...in other words it's subject to change.

Also, Celeron systems that are this cheap typically have integrated sound and video. Integrated sound and video is NOT what you want, trust me.

Due to the fact that they do not mention ANYTHING important about the system, and that several of the links on the web page don't work right, and the following tidbit from the FAQ, I wouldn't touch this machine with a 10 foot pole. Just too risky.

Here's an interesting statement from the FAQ:

Can I return the PC?
Because your system comes bundled with 36 months of prepaid MSN Internet service, we cannot accept any returns. However, we employ an extensive, state-of-the-art technical support department with operators standing by to assist you with any unforeseeable situations regarding your computer.

State-of-the-Art technical support, eh? I bet.

Be warned. Your upgrade options are probably going to be seriously limited and it's impossible to determine how good the sound system on the motherboard is going to be. It could be Yamaha, Crystal, ESS, you never know...but it'll NEVER be top of the line on a $300 machine. And your chances of getting 2 soundcards into this sucker? I wouldn't bet on it. Actually, when you add it all up the total on the machine comes to $653 with shipping and everything. That's not exactly a great deal. If your concerned about a lump payment then try financing a machine that will work better for you. There are better ways to get a good machine at a good price than these internet machine scams. (Hell, you can get a FREE eMachines 400Mhz celeron if you just sign up for 4 years of Compuserv. What a deal!

Slackmaster 2000

 

[Emeric]

Slackmaster summed it up very nicely. The mainboard is such a critical component, I would never skimp, and I certainly don't in the systems I sell. The one with built in audio and video can be ok, but if your main purpose is for recording, get one custome built. You may be able to find a good system from a company that offers financing, but generally, I tell the customer to get the financing through a bank (lower interest) and get the machine that will do the job.

Emeric