Joined on 01/21/03
Bang for the Buck

Pros: For pennies, simply can't ask for more. It gets the job done. Successfully dual boots Ubuntu and XP sp2 and runs smoothly. Ran slingbox and firefox same time with no hickups (though at times the CPU load was around 80%). Now the kids have a ITX machine which I don't have to worry about all for under $200. Came with a PCI riser and adapter for a slimline drive!
Cons: Not the strongest video, documentation kinda lame (needed to do a little research), and lacks firewire hookup. At this price, didn't expect SATA, DVI etc. This is just a plain board.
Overall Review: It runs my OS's fine. Can't wait to explore the possibilities like shoving this small build under the car seat, hooking it up to the car's LCD (strictly for the kids in the back seat, I don't recommend driving and surfing).
Ain't so happy with this one

Pros: Solid, well built, and pulls in a great FM signal. You can pick just about any station.
Cons: Bulky, (and I mean large), need to make sure it doesn't bump up against the gearshift while plugged in. Great value (if it works for you). Unfortunately, I'm trying to return it because my MP3 player just doesn't play loud enough. I have to turn both the car stereo and MP3 on maximum volume and when I accidently switch back to the car's CD player it's at a deafening volume
Overall Review: I wonder if this is really only meant for an iPxx. I have two non-iPxx MP3 players and neither can broadcast loud enough to make this thing worthwhile. I've put the volume to maximium on either player and it's still a quiet broadcast and by then it's to distorted to enjoy. My cheap $xx battery operated FM transmitter has only 4 stations but it transmits at 3 times the volume. I can't seem to find the perfect combo of a transmitter that can keep a strong FM signal but also broadcast loud enough volume. Am I alone here?
Update - Bang for the buck

Pros: see prior
Cons: see prior
Overall Review: Sorry error on earlier review, did not come with accessories, that was included in the bag for my case. The board simply came in plastic bubble wrap, nothing else.
Best Ever

Pros: I didn't think it would be this good, but it is! I just absolutely love typing on this keyboard. Connection is great and hasn't failed. The signal is immediately picked up and responds instantaneously. I would agree with all the other reviews, great construction, quality of materials, and the touchpad works well. No other keyboard compares for a basic HTPC accessory
Cons: Not a gaming keyboard, collects fingerprints and dust (but who cares)
Overall Review: I never would've spent the money simply for a keyboard but I'm happy I did. What else is out there that has a touchpad built into the keyboard? And volume slider to boot. They are not only convenient, but they work fine for occassional use.
ASUS is A- OK

Pros: Small, well built and sharp looking. Easy to build. Booted up without a problem. Surprisingly heavier than it looks. Graphics good enough for basic multimedia (DVDs, TV, Slingbox). Looked at the Antec HTPC cases but this one's smaller. Quieter than my shuttle and for those who don't think this is quiet, check to make sure it's not your harddrive. Changed a WD Raptor HDD to a Seagate now it's almost silent
Cons: Runs a bit hot with the "cool-quiet" option (46c). It's definitely quiet as a whisper but I'm more comfortable running the fans at higher speeds. Power button and faceplates seem somewhat fragile but we'll see.
Overall Review: Hat's off to the other reviewers. Definitely read all below before building. Such as disable USB so HDD reads first as C: Mine also came with latest Bios and so no problems with sleep or DVI connections. Use SATA!! otherwise use round IDE cables or it will block the fan. X2 4000+, 2 Gb DDR2/800, 250 Gb SATA 3.0, and SATA DVD burner
absolutely beautiful!

Pros: Quality and reliability are unsurpassed, great value, and simply a stunning looking notebook. The screen's great for movies and I have run into no problems whatsoever after a year plus of ownership
Cons: Thought the weight would be an issue since I'm used to notebooks under 5 lbs, but this thing's a breeze to lug around in my messenger bag
Overall Review: I have owned my current W3V series (same as above but with single core) for approx 1 1/2 years and it looks and works as it did on day 1. The aluminum brushed top looks beautiful and there's not a scratch or dead pixel despite frequent airport travel. People still marvel at how beautiful the screen is...and frankly, no loose screws, chipped corners or nothing after a year...that's quality!! I usually get the itch to upgrade to a new laptop after a year, but with this ASUS, I have no desire. Next laptop will be an ASUS, however.