Mesh Matrix XP 1800 Value PC

The Mesh Matrix XP 1800+SB is something of a rare gem, as it's a high-quality computer at a bargain price. The processor is an AMD Athlon 1800+, which together with 256MB PC2100 DDR SD-Ram is fitted to an Asus A7V333 motherboard. The choice of motherboard makes this system reasonably future proof as it is compatible with PC2700 memory; a worthy investment as and when it reaches a reasonable price. Sysmark performance in this configuration is pretty impressive, giving an overall score of 167.

The motherboard features four standard USB 1 ports as well as two USB 2 ports; an optional bracket for another two USB 2 ports is also available.

The motherboard's C-Media chip delivers six-channel audio as standard. This is an inevitable and yet still disappointing sacrifice, although sound quality is better than we were expecting. This sound is channelled through a set of Creative FPS1600s; maybe not the optimal choice considering the 5.1 sound chip, but still a reasonable set of speakers. All storage and optical drives are high quality, the Teac 40-speed CDRW deserving particular mention.

The only real fault with the Matrix XP 1800+SB is the monitor. The NEC MultiSync 75F is limited to a maximum resolution of 1152x864 at 75Hz and hence could not run our graphics tests at the desired resolution. Picture quality is quite poor too, but if you bear in mind the cost of this system it could've been a lot worse.

Graphics comes from a Leadtek card, based on the Nvidia Geforce4 MX440 chipset. Performance is reasonable, despite the attached monitor. Running under a virtual desktop, the Matrix XP 1800+SB mustered a perfectly respectable 4211 in 3DMark 2001 and 69 frames per second in Quake III.

Overall this is a good buy if you want an upgradeable computer for under £700ex VAT, and Mesh's standard 3 year warranty makes it a more secure purchase.