Mesh Matrix64

It has taken AMD longer than expected to deliver its latest processing riposte to Intel, but with the Mesh Matrix64 3700+ Pro, it seems to have spent the time wisely.

We can't report a Sysmark score, as the test did not complete, a failure we attribute to the test rather than any flaw in the PC's design. This is borne out by the PCmark rating of 4,933 and, considered alongside the 1GB of memory, we don't think you'll find anything to throw at the Matrix it won't bat back with aplomb.

The Matrix64 has everything you'd expect in a machine with a price tag just shy of £1,800. Finding room to store music and video shouldn't be a problem with a 250GB hard disk, and there are three vacant PCI slots.

Sound is well catered for by the Creative Audigy 2 ZS Platinum and its controls are mounted at the front, with Midi and optical sockets and an infra-red port. A set of 7.1 speakers boomed healthily. Separate CD and DVD drives cover most format bases.

This is the cheaper of two Athlon 3700+ computers reviewed this issue and if you're wondering why Mesh has come in £300 lighter, it's down to the graphics and display. Mesh has opted for the Radeon X800 Pro, a step below the X800 XT but the 3Dmark score of 9,905 proved it would crunch its way through demanding games. Mesh has decided to include a 19in TFT and, in our view it keeps the Matrix competitive for all but the most cutting-edge buyers.

Contact: Mesh 0870 046 4747
www.meshcomputers.com

Specifications:

• Windows XP Home
• AMD Athlon64 3700+
• 1GB of DDR Ram
• Asus K8V Deluxe motherboard
• 250GB hard disk
• Dual-format DVD-RW
• Radeon X800 Pro
• Iiyama 19in TFT
• Creative Inspire 7700 speakers
• 6 USB2; 1 Firewire
• 3yr on-site warranty (parts and labour)