14 DAY TRIAL // Most consumers, especially gamers and enthusiasts, have high-grade desktops at the top of their list when it comes to considering a new PC. However, there are those that are more interested in a multimedia-centric system that can stylishly fit into a living-room environment. Such systems have come to be known as HTPCs (Home Theater Personal Computers) and usually have the benefits of low/no noise output and a compact form factor. It is these benefits that Tranquil did its best to confer upon the AVA Media ixVL Media Center PC.
The ixVL Media Center is the HTPC that Tranquil is currently working on. It is constructed with a chassis with thick, black aluminum extrusions and fitted with a blue VFD on the front. Within this enclosure lies an Intel Core i3 or Core i5 central processing unit, an undisclosed amount of memory and an optical disk drive, which can be either a very slim, slot-loading DVD-WR or a Blu-ray device.
The entire product measures 240x250x100mm and uses passive cooling. This, of course, means that immersion during multimedia playback won't be threatened by cooling noise. As for actual functionality, the HTPC boasts built-in IPTV services from popular TV stations and SKY (subscription required), dual DVB-T tuners, as well as an integrated IR remote receiver and remote hand unit. Finally, connectivity to a monitor or HDTV is done via the HDMI or SPDIF outputs.
This array of components is the reason why the PC maker states that the Tranquil AVA Media ixVL “is feature packed, and ticks all the right boxes for an affordable Media Centre.” A price has not been given yet, nor is it known what type of warranty its maker will join it with. End-users need not despair, though. The official release of the product should be made before next month is out, which means that final details and new images will come out around the same time.