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KRK's review above couldn't be more wrong. I love the TV tuner and the great HD picture. This computer works flawlessly, and Sony has the BEST support I've ever encountered. I now purchase Sony exclusively, TV's,Blueray players and computers. I had no issues with this model and Sony technical assistance, in fact when I contact support I am always helped promptly and efficiently. I would highly recommend this computer to any one out there.
Not much to say other than the product I received is exactly what I expected and exactly as advertised. You can use cable or antenna to feed unprotected content into the PC media center, so all may not be lost. But of course, that is the same for any brand (even a Mac will download updates).
The screen is clear and brilliant, Vista SP1 works fine (regardless of the bad PR Vista has), connected to the internet without issue, etc. I enjoy it, so I call it fun.Also be aware that although there is an HDMI port in, you can't watch HD TV from that port within Vista. It looks great and works great.Started up perfectly the first time with no reinstalls or other software issues.
Add to that time to transfer files/settings from the old box and you will have a night or two of work/fun ahead of you. Sleek install with only two cables (power and HDMI TV). Also, a very important aspect for me is it is very quiet.For any future buyer, keep in mind that on a Windows machine, when you first turn it on, you end up installing the OS so expect to spend some time doing that and downloading hundreds of MB of updates.
To comply with the HDCP (content protection) requirements, Sony had to keep the digital HD stream away from the PC side. Your mileage may vary.Bottom line: Highly recommended if you are looking for a PC/TV All-In-One
Is this Model made exclusively for Amazon and which limits Sony Technical Support. It is so much easier to run simultaneous window apps. First, the LV 180J comes with Vista Home Premium, not the Vista Ultimate (see Sony LV190J). My unit had defects which prevented me from establishing a wireless connection and when connected via a cable modem, another defect prevented me from uploading websites that incorporated attached windows.
In summary, this may be an isolated bad unit but my concerns broaden when I read that other members have also encountered problems out-of-the-box with this unit. Not having access to Sony Technical Support was also disturbing. The Windows Live Icon was present but the program was not installed. Finally, I recently discovered after researching the HDTV feature there are some significant restrictions on receiving HDTV programs. I also had no problem setting up this system and integrating the wireless componets.
The typical set up with the drive(s) at floor level is less "accoustically invasive." (Hope that makes sense). A buyer should also know the Sony Corporation (Sonystyle.com)does not recognize this Model, so Sony Technical Support could not help me. These restrictions are set by agencies outside the scope of Sony's control. (A model Sonystyle.com does recognize).Give some thought before purchasing this specific model.
I hope I am the only member to experience these problems but my desktop came with multiple software defects. The absent wiring gives this system a "clean" and modern look. It seems fairly quiet but because the drive is installed in the monitor, it sits at ear level on the table. These issues are too frequent for me to consider repurchasing another LV-180J. You may be purchasing a feature you can not apply.Some positive feedback: The screen resolution and color representation is impressive. I can not recommend it based on my experiences. These problems were diagnosed by a computer technition dispatched to my home after I attempted every trouble shooting procedure Amazon recommended.While I never got my unit running I'd like to elaborate further on this specific model.
Respectfully submitted, K.K. If television watching / recording programs is a primary purpose for buying this all-in-one system you should investigate this situation. I suspect monitor manufacturers will soon explore the 24 inch monitor as their standard size. Especially since the LV-180J is nearly identical to the LV-150J. Seacoast, N.H.
It clashes with other security software I prefer and it tries to get you to delete the other software. ***** UPDATE 28 January 2009 UPDATE FIVE STARS.
And it is quite a value. What you need to know is that Amazon is the only place you can now buy the LV180.
The sales rep at Amazon said they'd fix the Spec info to reflect the actual 6MB of Cache.Mine arrives Friday, so I'll post more later.Also, the computer specs for the LV180 are the same as the JS190, which only has a 20" screen and no TV.OS is "Home Premium", despit what the Sony site previously stated. Sony on-line and Sony Syle Stores now only carry the LV150 and LV190.
They are now selling the LV150 for the same price as the LV180 is available from Amazon. *****Now that I've had it for a few weeks I'm quite happy with my purchase.It looks like an adult computer compared to the iMac white frame.I can't wait for the "Windows Live One Care" to expire after the "Free 90-day trial period".
I should take the time to uninstall One Care.
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