Apple Power Mac G5 1.6GHz

Apple has redesigned just about every aspect of its Power Mac computers to come up with the most powerful consumer computer it's ever released.

The starting point has to be the new G5 processor, designed by IBM. This is an amazingly fast chip, even in the 'low-end' 1.6GHz system reviewed here. It's hard to compare G5 and Intel Pentium processors, but, put simply, a 1.6GHz G5 can give a 3GHz Pentium a run for its money.

There are other models with a 1.8GHz processor (£1,850) and the top-of-the-range version offers dual 2GHz processors (£2,300), which can outperform just about any Windows PC. Other features here include 256Mb of memory and an 80Gb hard disk. There's a SuperDrive for recording both CDs and DVDs, two FireWire ports for connecting high-speed devices such as an iPod or digital camcorder, and three USB 2 ports for other peripherals.

The only minor criticism is that the GeForce FX 5200 Ultra graphics card isn't a top-notch performer but the power of the G5 processor makes up for that. The only other warning note is that the package doesn't include a monitor. Most Power Mac customers tend to be professional users who already have a good monitor, so they don't need to buy a new one. Besides, Apple doesn't sell 'ordinary' monitors - it only sells big, expensive models, starting at about £500.

Let's face it though, the Power Mac G5 isn't intended as a low-cost home computer. It's designed for creative applications such as video editing or audio recording; for those purposes the G5 is a very worthwhile investment. Apple fans looking for something more reasonably priced should consider the all-in-one iMac or eMac.

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