Maingear, a leading vendor of custom computer systems, has just announced the launch of a new high-end model, designed to meet the requirements of both gaming and HTPC users. The Axess HD Gamer has been designed on an X58 platform and supports Intel's fastest processors yet, while the exterior design makes it an ideal choice for an HTPC enthusiast. The system is also equipped with two NVIDIA graphics connected in an SLI configuration, enabling the user to take advantage of a high performance level, ready to take on any gaming or multimedia application on the market.

Maingear's latest computer system is built around Intel's highest-performance desktop platform available on the market, the Nehalem-supporting X58. It combines an Intel Core i7 processor with two NVIDIA GeForce 9800GT graphics cards, connected in SLI and enabling support for PhysX and 3D Vision. The system has support for up to 12GB of DDR3 triple channel memory and can accommodate two 3.5-inch SATA HDD or SSD drives, for a total storage capacity of up to 2TB. For both gaming and multimedia the system has an on-board HD 8-channel analog and S/PDIF.

Additional features include the front OLED display for status information, the multi-format memory card reader, DVI, VGA, HDMI, two 6-pin FireWire and eSATA connectivity, dual Gigabit Ethernet and 8 USB 2.0 ports. The entire system has been encased in the Maingear low-profile Axess chassis, which can easily be integrated into a home theater system, as it features an elegant black metal design.

As you might expect, the system doesn't come cheap, especially if you take into consideration that it's built on Intel's fastest desktop platform to date. Packed with a Windows Vista Premium 32- or 64-bit operating system, the Maingear Axess HD Gamer starts at US$1,799.