Maingear Prelude 2 - the complete gaming system?

by Parm Mann on 20 February 2009, 12:13

Tags: Prelude 2, Maingear

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We're yet to be convinced by 3D technology, but with many in the industry pushing three-dimensional visuals forward, Maingear seems to think now's the right time to launch a 3D-gaming system.

Hence the Prelude 2, pictured below. Here's a high-end system - complete with Intel Core i7 processor - that's bundled with a 3D-ready 22in Samsung display and NVIDIA's GeForce 3D Vision, all for a $1,999 price tag.

The real draw, of course, is NVIDIA's stereoscopic 3D technology. Maingear CEO Wallace Santos claims the system offers gamers "the complete package to fully immerse themselves in the gaming arena of their choice", and adds that "NVIDIA GeForce 3D Vision offers an unrivalled, unique gaming experience".

The problem, we feel, is that the Prelude 2 resorts to trimming down key components in order to retain a sub-$2000 starting price. Despite the inclusion of 3D vision and Samsung's 3D-capable display, the system itself features a GeForce 9800 GT graphics card - which, albeit capable, may not be the first choice of high-end gamers. There are, of course, ample upgrade options, but the asking price quickly beings to skyrocket with each addition.

Still, if you're itching to get your hands on a completely 3D-ready gaming rig, Maingear's Prelude 2 looks a decent enough option. Personally, we'd hold fire on investing in 3D equipment and opt for a Core i7 system with a better-equipped GPU, instead.



HEXUS Forums :: 5 Comments

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Is that one of the LAN Cool case's

'cos it doesn't look as nice as Lian Li's normal stuff :(

edit: hmmm the PC-7F, just seems ‘tacky’ compared to their other offerings or is that just me?
Forgive my complete ignorance on this topic, but does 3D Vision put any extra strain on the GPU compared to ordinary rendering? Just a wonderingment…
as the monitor is 1680x1050 tops, the gfx card seems ample for games at that resolution
i agree and would not call the 9800 lacklustre. especially for this system. you make it sound like its a pos.
Aard
i agree and would not call the 9800 lacklustre. … you make it sound like its a pos.
The article doesn't call it “lacklustre” either, it says it is
The Article
capable, (but) may not be the first choice of high-end gamers.
At 1680 x 1050 the 9800GT hovers in the acceptable-but-not-spectacular 50 - 60 fps range, making it “adequate” rather than “ample” (IMNSHO ;) ) - particularly compared to the HD4870 housed in today's other previewed gaming PC. It's definitely a compromise solution aimed at hitting a target price-point, leaving the system with little headroom for future, more resource-intensive, games. Ask most gamers and I suspect they'd rather have at least a 9800GTX+, which really wouldn't have cut into their margins that much (the difference in retail price is only about £30…).