Evesham Axis 2400+

One look at the Evesham Axis 2400+ suggests that this is a computer built around a magnificent TFT screen.

In order to accommodate such a splendid screen, sacrifices need to be made in order to keep the price sensible. That explains the presence of the AMD Athlon XP 2400+ processor. AMD processors represent good-value performance.

There is no skimping on memory, with 512MB supplied and the 80GB hard disk should be ample for all but the greediest users.

The graphics card is a hotter version of that used in the Mesh system, being based on the superb ATI Radeon 9500 Pro graphics chip.

The Pro version of the 9500 runs faster than the regular 9500. This was demonstrated amply in our 3D tests, where it performed splendidly, showing itself as a great choice for gamers.

The general system performance tests showed the Evesham performed as expected for a computer of this specification.

As we've already said though, the first thing people notice about the Evesham is not the processor or the graphics but the 17in TFT monitor.

The large screen has a brilliant picture and even a DVI connection to connect to the graphics card. The benefit of using DVI is a better picture and not having to tinker with the screen settings to see it at its best.

If you have an old computer lying around there's a VGA connector as well. This lets you run both computers off the same screen. The only downside with the screen is the messy cabling.

Built into the stand is a USB hub, although as the PC has six USB 2 ports, including two on the front, you may not even need to use it.

Bizarrely, there are two more USB ports on the rear of the machine, but a crude 'Disabled' sticker has been stuck over them, which is confusing.

Aside from that, connectivity is excellent, with network and FireWire ports. Even the on-board sound is better than the average offering. The sound supports Dolby Digital, which is great for watching movies with the DVD-Rom drive and the provided software.

You are even in luck with the Creative Inspire 5100 speakers provided. As well as being quite stylish, they will happily pump out an impressive volume, all in Dolby Digital surround sound. All of these external peripherals don't mean the inside has been forgotten. A CD-RW drive is also included. Nero Burning Rom is pre-installed and allows you to get the most out of the drive but there is no other software.

Everything else has to be paid for when ordered, which can considerably bump up the price. Unless you are making an upgrade and already have software, you will be disappointed by this sparse PC.

Of course, if you fancy upgrading any of the components there's plenty of room inside the case, with one memory slot, two drive bays and a spare bay for another hard disk.

Opting for a standard CRT monitor could get a higher specification for the price but we think the TFT is a worthy option which lifts this PC out of the crowd.

DETAILSContact: Evesham 0870 160 9500
www.evesham.com