Bundle
The Platina isn't just about the laptop, there's a whole load of extras along with it. The basic base bundle first.
Reload media for restoring your OS, a driver and application CD, modem cable plus phone socket adaptor and S-Video to composite cable are the basics, we take those for granted.
USB Bluetooth adaptor and remote for the Creative Audigy 2 NX external USB soundcard aren't taken for granted at all. The Bluetooth adaptor simply adds another connectivity option to the Platina, on top of IrDa, USB2.0 and FireWire400. The Audigy 2 NX is something else entirely.
The Audigy 2 NX is basically Creative's desktop product in an aesthetically pleasing external casing, connecting to your PC via USB. That means 8-channel audio (yep, full 7.1), both coax and optical S/PDIF outputs, optical digital input, mic and line input for getting audio onto the Platina and Dolby Digital compatibility. It has a single downside, it's reliance on an external +5V DC supply, tethering you to a power point should you wish to use the Audigy 2 NX. Hrmph. You do get the little infra-red remote though, giving you not just volume and mute control over the NX, but simple control over DVD and other media player applications. It's not much, but it gives the Platina a little extra flexibility in its usage, without having to spend any extra money.
The Sennheiser cans are PC150s, a cheap set as far as Sennheisers are concerned, but a good inclusion in a laptop bundle, for added value. There's a noise cancelling microphone and a set of decent stereo drivers for good sound. Personal usage notes run to them having good bass response, not too much noise leakage at high volume and they're comfortable to wear for long periods. Hurrah, a decent pairing with the Audigy 2 NX or CMI9738S.
Fancy gaming on the move? Hate playing games on the keyboard? Time thought of you.
Wireless RF gamepad, connected to the computer via a USB transciever that draws power from the port, you get gaming on the move without too much fuss. There's a decent driver for it too, letting you get the most out of the pad's functions in your favourite games. I took the Platina to my local Starbucks (where else?), whipped out the Saitek pad, donned Sennheisers and fired up Colin McRae Rally 3 for a quick blast. I got funny looks, my legs hurt (no free tables, just the comfy chairs) by the end, but I had a blast while supping my latte.
