Review: MSI MegaPC

Unfortunately we were not supplied with the optional TV card or Home Theatre software and are therefore unable to comment on those potentially useful features.

We did install DivX 5 and WinDVD and were able to test movie playback. Using the on board graphics we found playback on the computer monitor to be excellent. We did not experience any ghosting and the audio maintained perfect synchronisation. The standard machine does not have a TV out facility, so I'm afraid we can not comment.

We have seen the Realtek ALC650 AC97 6 Channel audio setup many times before. It is a very solid performer and produces excellent sound quality. We tested playback using the 3.5mm Jack plugs and the Optical SP-DIF Out connection. It is wonderful to find that MSI have positioned the Optical connectors correctly, with input located at the front and output at the back of the case.

Both configurations produced very good sound, but as ever, the optical setup is so much better.

MSI provided a radio program to utilise the built in AM/FM receiver. This is the only time that the MegaPC uses the front LCD display when in PC mode, which is a real shame as having temperatures or fan speeds displayed would have been wonderful.