When manufacturers try to enhance the Windows interface, it usually results in gimmicky and obtrusive software. Not so here. You pull up Sony's custom launcher application via a jog dial set below the touchpad, and once you get the hang of it, it really does make jumping to various programs a snap. You can also use it to access notebook settings and use it as a scroll wheel in apps.
Along with the typical notebook expansion ports, including a pair of USB connectors, the VAIO PCGR505DT sports a Memory Stick slot and an i.Link (IEEE 1394) port. One way Sony keeps the size down is by omitting removable media. When you need to access a CD or floppy disk, just clip on the optional SlimDock, which includes either a combo DVD/CD-RW drive (as our review unit did) or a DVD-ROM drive along with a floppy drive. DVD playback looked great on the smallish 12.1-inch TFT screen, but audio was disappointing. There's so little room for speakers that the Sony just doesn't put out a lot of volume. Audio CDs played a bit louder, but there was a lot of distortion evident at higher volumes.
The VAIO PCGR505DT's keyboard is very comfortable, a big improvement over Sony's earlier slimline notebooks. The layout's not bad overall, but dedicated page-navigation keys are missing--you'll have to use the Fn key in conjunction with the arrows.
While it doesn't offer standout performance or battery life, its slim and light package and useful software bundle makes the VAIO PCGR505DT an excellent road companion for DV and digital photography fans.
--by Denny Atkin
Sony VAIO PCGR505DT Superslim Pro
Company:Sony Australia
Ph: 1300 137 669
Price: AU$5,199
Rating:
6%
1%
