Editorial Review

Whether you're looking for a desktop for business or home, hobby, and family use, the Sony Vaio PCV-RX540 holds a lot of appeal. Its price is lower than average for desktops as a whole and among similarly rated products. The product includes a 1.2 GHz Celeron CPU, 256 MB of memory (expandable to 512 MB), 60 GB hard disk, and dual 40x (read), 16x (write), 10x (read) CD-RW and 16x DVD-ROM drives, as well as an Intel 815E internal AGP graphics card, 56K modem, and 10/100 Mbps Ethernet network card. The installed operating system is Windows XP Home Edition, which combines the stability of Windows 2000 with better support for peripherals and games plus a new user interface. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

Sony desktops are good too!
I've had my Sony PCV-RX540 for over three years now, which is about 75 years old when translated into human years!I paid $750 for it brand new and it has proved itself to be the best investment I have made thus far in my life.With most PC's at least one component of the hardware would have failed within that period of time, but (knock on wood) she still runs almost like I just bought her yesterday.The only modifications I have made were the addition of 256 more MB of ram, bringing it to 512, which is sufficient to run AutoCAD, Photoshop, several browser windows, and a few other applications with ease, even with the 1.2GHz processor.I somehow managed to almost fill up the 60 GB hard drive, but it's only because I've backed up my entire CD collection at very high quality bit rates (196 Kbps!).In the 3 years I have owned it, I have never seen the "blue screen of death," and the only reason it froze on me at times were due to software issues, specifically with how PC-Cillin (anti-virus software) interacts with Windows XP's "built-in" file zipping service, which was easiliy remedied by disabling it.I have dealt with a lot of PC hardware, and usually build my own PC's but decided to be lazy this time around.Sony has designed an amazing case which is *very* sturdy and opens up easily, with frequently upgraded/replaced components such as the hard drive and memory in easily-accessible areas.Beware of reviews of computers that complain about compatibility issues, etc. - those reviews are off-topic since we are reviewing the computer itself, not Windows!If you are thinking of buying this PC used, GO FOR IT, unless it looks like it was kicked around or smashed with a hammer!

The best computer I have ever had
I am a PC fanatic and I love to build them and I must admit that this Sony computer is the best for the buck. I purchased my computer in November 2001 and I have no problems what so ever. I have already installed a second 40 GB hard drive, a 32MB AGP video card with TV out ( the onboard video card only has 4MB ), an optical intellimouse, additional 256MB memory to max out at 512MB, Sound Blaster Live sound card, and I still stayed under my...budget limit for a new computer. Needless to say I have a very impressive unit and it hums right along. The included software is pretty much useless, so I installed AOL 7.0, Microsft Works 2002, Easy CD Creator 5.1, and a host of games which placed my total cost for everything at 1,200. I must say, for all that I placed into this computer, if I purchased the same thing anywhere else, with everything included, I would have spent at least 3,000. I am very impressed with Sony and very pleased with my PCV-RX540. Software loads easily, drivers for anything are a breeze (ensure you have Windows XP compatible drivers), and CD burning and watching DVD's is simply amazing. I have made two home videos with the VCD software included with Easy CD Creator 5.1 which I have veiwed on my DVD player. A simply great computer! Get it while it is hot. Very easy to upgrade! I know my money was well spent!

Great machine for the money
I really like my Sony Vaio.It is very quiet and extremely fast.My only problem with is is the pittiful software that came with the computer.This machine is in the digital series but I did expect a little more productivity software. I would have given it a 5 if it came with better software.I compared Dell, Gateway and HP and couldn't find a computer comparable. Sony offers a lot for the money with this computer (...). ... Read more

Editorial Review

As one of the more affordable models in Sony's wide-ranging "Digital Studio" line of PCs, the VAIO PCV-RZ32G Desktop offers high-end performance and exceptional multimedia capabilities at a considerably more palatable price point than that of power-packed siblings such as the VAIO PCV-RX34G. Capable yet relatively economical, the VAIO PCV-RZ34G could be just the ticket for those who use their computer for entertainment as well as productivity.Read more

Reviews (1)

GREAT
I love the performance for the price yes there is a 3.0 ghz with hyper-threadingbut much more expenive.I love all the software that comes with it very good i think about 700 dollars worth. 1 thing is taht the case is quite small and hard to put more memory in. ... Read more

Editorial Review

The Sony Vaio PCV-RZ54G is a full-fledged desktop PC--but it's also a television, a DVD player, an FM and Internet radio, and a personal video recorder. It's powered by the Microsoft Windows XP Media Center Edition 2004 operating system (compatible with cable, digital cable, satellite TV, and antenna), and it features a 3.2 GHz Pentium 4 processor (with Hyper Threading technology), extra-large 200 GB hard drive, and 512 MB of installed memory. For an even more powerful Media Center, you can step up to the Sony Vaio PCV-RZ56G with a 3.4 GHz Pentium 4 processor, a 250 GB hard drive, and 1 GB of installed RAM. Read more

Reviews (7)

Frustration and disappointment
We bought our rz54g in June 2004. It was grossly overpriced but we believed in Sony quality. Since than we experienced 4 major technical problems. 1 month after purchase there was a problem with motherboard and compter had to be serviced in authorized Sony service. Than Hard drive failed twice (replacement from Sony had only 90 days warranty) which was probably caused by poor ventilation (only 1 fan).
If you ever hope to upgrade, don't buy a Sony
I bought this system on sale, so at least I didn't lose as much as many people who got taken by Sony.I still paid far too much, however.I immediately discovered that both the keyboard and mouse were very poorly designed.The mouse was so poorly shaped that I immediately began suffering the effects of carpal tunnel.The cord on the keyboard was so short, I could not pull out the keyboard drawer on my computer desk.I actually had to type with the keyboard halfway under the desk.My old Gateway had plenty of cord to pull it out as far as I wanted.So, I had to replace both the keyboard and mouse after paying nearly $3000 for the system.
Watch out for this one!
My husband and I purchased one of these to do dv recording and to convert to and edit mpeg2 files.Each time we tried to play a video in mpeg2 format - and we tried with multiple files - it REBOOTED THE MACHINE! (XP was set to reboot after a fatal error - but even when this was turned off, we still got a fatal error).After we spent hours and hours on the phone with tech support, trying multiple solutions, they concluded it had a faulty video chipset.Needless to say, we returned the pc immediately and got our $$ back.Doesn't Sony do QA testing on a common format like mpeg2???All I can say is, I hope not many of these machines came out of the box like this one! ... Read more

Editorial Review

As the entry-level model in Sony's "RS" series of Digital Studio Desktops, the Sony VAIO PCV-RS120 Desktop delivers everything a multimedia fan could want, including CD and DVD burning capabilities and adequate speed for most tasks.Read more

Features

• Intel® Pentium® 4 Processor 2.66 GHz
• Microsoft® Windows® XP Home Edition
• 256MB PC-2100 266MHz DDR
• 120GB 7200 RPM Ultra ATA/100 Hard Drive
• DVD ± RW / CD-RW Multi Format Drive

Reviews (4)

Suits my Photoshop and Video needs just fine!
It's fast, quiet and the DVD burner is quick. I have no problem working with huge photo files in Photoshop CS, nor making home DVDs from my miniDV camera. The hard drive is HUGE! I did upgrade the memory to 1 Gig though...My ONLY complaint is the dinky speakers (and sound card) it came with.

NOT a happy camper...
I expected a whole lot more from Sony than what I received on this model (especially since it wasn't cheap)! I bought this computer brand new 6 months ago. The first thing I really didn't like about it was the very weird dying cat sound it makes about every five minutes. The reason for the 1 star on this review though is the fact that it started crashing a month ago. It will crash up to 10 times UPON startup, crash during programs or internet browsing. It will crash whenever it feels like it. This is not due to a virus or a program but a defective processor. I have done a full system recovery on this machine twice which did not fix the problem (and also proves that it is a physical problem, not program related). When I called Sony's customer support they absolutely did not want to believe it was defective, rather it was something caused by a program. Now I am left to PROVE to them that it's defective and broken so I can get repairs done under warranty. What a pain! I am not a computer wiz, but it's a good thing I am not totally ignorant on computers or I would be up the creek without a paddle. This isn't over yet, wish me luck.

Great mid-range computer
A very good mid-range computer.Sony puts a lot into quality and stability.It's a great entertainment computer, with a nice big HDD and a fast CPU.If you want to play 3D games you might want something with more graphics memory (or throw in a new graphics card for fifty bucks and you are set). ... Read more

Editorial Review

As the high-end model in Sony’s "RS" series of Digital Studio Desktops, the Sony VAIO PCV-RS430G delivers everything a multimedia fan could want, including CD and DVD burning capabilities, television recording, and enough power for virtually any application. Gamers playing the most recent and most demanding 3-D titles may want to upgrade the graphics card, but most users should find the VAIO PCV-RS420 more than satisfactory. Read more

Reviews (6)

A Long Term Review
It seems as if there are a lot of over zealous reviews coming in from brand new users.Indeed, my experience with this computer was quite good when I first purchased it 2 years ago, but it is starting to wear a little thin now.It just seems outdated in terms of design, and slightly underpowered in comparison to other computers.Rather good, though, for basic ( I mean basic too!) multimedia needs, and should be accessorized with good Adobe software (Photoshop, etc.)

Great RS430G
Great Computer. Extreme Disappointment
If you buy Sony Giga Pocket hoping to back up your "home video tapes" like the advertizing suggests, then you are in for an unpleasant surprise.This WILL NOT record anything that has copyright protection!So even if you own your VHS tapes, you are out of luck and may have wasted over a grand on the Sony computer.Sony doesn't make this clear, and they don't have the courtesy of acknowledging problems or comments on their help site.I have to be careful about the strength of my comments, or AMAZON will censure them!But this is a waste of money and much time! ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Great product
i have owned this product since april of 2002, and i am more than satisfied. Performance is great and i have never had a problem with this machine. Highly Reccomended

Great machine
I did read the many reviews on this site about how slow the hard drive is and how the video card was no good. Unfortunately I read it all AFTER I bought the machine. Read more

Editorial Review

The Sony Vaio PCV-RS630G proves that PCs aren't just for spreadsheets any more. A multimedia powerhouse, the RS620G comes complete with a DVD+/-RW drive and a variety of Sony digital media software that makes it easy to burn your home movies and digital audio collections to disc. It also comes preloaded with Sony's GigaPocket software, which enables you to watch and record TV programs right on your PC. Other features include a massive 250 GB hard drive, 512 MB of installed RAM, and a hyper-threaded 3.20E GHz hyper-threaded Pentium 4 processor. Read more

Reviews (7)

very good
Very good
Well-built system
I bought this system from Circuitcity(because I thought I might need some extended service plan) with Samsung SyncMaster 912N 19" LCD monitor. System looked and worked good so far. (I personally like the blue "VAIO" power indicator.) Portable media slots for memory stick and compact flash came in very handy, since I use Sony F717 and Canon Powershot S50. On the keyboard, there are volume controls, mute, and hibernation function keys; keyboard is very simple and quiet, unlike some keyboards with practically-useless features. System is also very quiet.
Like the VAIO desktop (RS613GX, smilar product)
Through my own miscues, I managed to screw up the confiuration of my new Sony VAIO desktop within four hours of taking it out of the box (slightly different product, which included a 2.8gHz P4, 1gb RAM, 160gb hard disk, and virtually the same configuration described in the first review above.The only difference is that my purchase included a delicious 17" LCD display.)I installed a Symantec Antivirus Corporate Edition product without first uninstalling the unbeknownst-to-me complimentary antivirus and Norton firewall.The computer -- rightfully -- slowed to a crawl.
Read more

Editorial Review

The Sony Vaio PCV-RS610 proves that PCs aren't just for spreadsheets any more. A multimedia powerhouse, the RS610 comes complete with a DVD+/-RW drive and a variety of Sony digital media software that makes it easy to burn your home movies and digital audio collections to disc. It also offers a huge 160 GB hard drive, 512 MB of installed RAM, and a hyper-threaded 2.8 GHz hyper-threaded Pentium 4 processor. Read more

Features

• Intel Pentium 4 2.8GHz Processor with HyperThreading Technology
• Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition
• 512MB DDR RAM Memory
• 160GB Hard Disk Drive
• DVD+/-RW Optical Drive

Editorial Review

The Sony VAIO PCV-RS520 offers everything you need to wrangle your multimedia collection, as well as tremendous power for high-end multimedia software and PC games. Featuring a fast Hyper-Threaded 3.0 GHz Pentium 4 processor, the PCV-RS520 also offers a built-in DVD+/-RW writer, 512 MB installed RAM, a very generous 160 GB hard drive, and a wealth of digital audio, photo, and video software. With Click to DVD, you can import your camcorder's digital video and burn directly to DVD. For a step up in price, the Sony Vaio PCV-RS530G offers a PVR function that you can hook up to your TV to record programs. Read more

Reviews (8)

Excellent machine
I've been using this machine for over a year and consider it to be the best machine I have ever used. I am a professional programmer and spend a great deal of time on the computer. Simply no complaints. The machine is quiet, fast, and has yet to cause me any problems. The components are quality; this is not an emachines computer where all the parts burn out within the first eleven months. My model shipped with a Seagate hard drive and a 128 MB Radeon graphics card. Great job Sony.

I will never buy a PC from Sony again
It seemed like a good deal at at first.4 months in the motherboard fried.I took it to a Sony repair shop and at first they said the motherboards were back ordered for 6-8 weeks.I told them that was unreasonable and eventually they scrounged one up from someplace.
Some comments on Sony RS520
I purchased this computer one week ago. It works well so far. I have the following supplemental comments to previous reviews:Read more

Editorial Review

Whether you’re into movies, graphics, 3-D animation, DVD video recording, the latest computer games, or all of the above, Sony’s ultrapowerful Vaio PCV-RZ16G desktop has you covered, with plenty of room to spare.Read more

Features

• 60GB Ultra ATA/66 Hard Drive
• 4.8x DVD-ROM / 4x4x24 CD-RW Combo Drive
• Built-in Harmon Kardon speakers in the LCD display
• 56k v.90 data/fax modem
• 10Base-T/100Base-TX Ethernet port

Reviews (1)

A great gift for art students
The flat screen that folds down for drawing on is a great tool for computer artists.Drawing pads have been around for years, but adding it to the screen is more second nature to the artist's hand, which has been trained in tradional techniques using paper and pen. ... Read more

Editorial Review

As the new crowning jewel of Sony's "Digital Studio" line of PCs, the VAIO PCV-RZ46G Media Center Desktop is one of the fastest and most versatile pre-configured computers currently on the market. Powerful enough for any business environment but perhaps better suited to an upscale home setting where its wealth of entertainment-related amenities may be fully exploited, Sony's top-of-the-line multimedia PC and most luxurious Digital Studio to date is ready for years of upgrade-free computing.Read more

Reviews (5)

Down market speakers and noisy disk drive detract
I'm shocked no one seems to care that the 200GB hard drive that comes standard with this model whistles like a tea kettle. I called in the problem and the Sony authorized representative replaced the drive with another identical one. That one whistles, too. There simply isn't enough sound insulation. This is a problem when you are NOT watching loud DVDs obviously. I'm thinking of replacing the drive with something quieter--on my own nickel, of course. Everything you could want
Bought mine on a pre-order in November. It's very fast, multi-tasking is a non-issue; the built-in TIVO is a great toy. Once you read email and watch TV at the same time, you'll never go back. Click to DVD is very easy to use. Comes w/ a multitude of video, photo and jukebox software so you can pick your favorite. I was skeptical, but Sony came through!
Initially, I was worried about going with Sony for a computer as they aren't one of the traditional brands that I have owned in the past (Dell, IBM, and Compaq).This computer is awesome!It rips through all of my design and multi-media work and I couldn't be happier.I kept my 21" CRT monitor though...was a tough choice. ... Read more

Editorial Review

The Sony Vaio PCV-RS620G proves that PCs aren't just for spreadsheets any more. A multimedia powerhouse, the RS620G comes complete with a DVD+/-RW drive and a variety of Sony digital media software that makes it easy to burn your home movies and digital audio collections to disc. It also comes preloaded with Sony's GigaPocket software, which enables you to watch and record TV programs right on your PC. Other features include a huge 160 GB hard drive, 512 MB of installed RAM, and a hyper-threaded 3E GHz hyper-threaded Pentium 4 processor. Read more

Reviews (1)

Great Machine
I purchased this computer earlier this week and I have been impressed every time that I have used it.The remote is awesome when you are watching TV. ... Read more

Editorial Review

For those who require the ultimate in power and speed or anyone who simply enjoys being on the cutting edge of computer technology, the Sony Vaio PCV-RX752 desktop computer is built to please. With a furiously fast processor, massive hard drive, and support for both CD playback and DVD recording, the Vaio PCV-RX752 will handle practically any business, multimedia, or entertainment application with plenty of room to spare. You'll pay a little more for this level of performance, and even then you'll have to furnish your own monitor, but very few pre-assembled computers on the market today are this well endowed.Read more

Reviews (1)

Good balance of price, performance, and features
This is a fair price for a system this feature rich and powerful, but I would suggest looking at the cheaper 750 if you value price a little more than performance. If you are a major performance nut then Sony is probably not your brand.It is more a balance of performance, price and lots of cool extras.Dell or Gateway are better values for performance junkies but they don't have the extras that Sony does so well at.Read more

Features

• Intel Pentium 4 processor
• 2.4GHz, 256MB RAM, 60GB
• DVD, CD-RW, NIC, XPP