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Greetings! - Caution - Very long!!!

My system finally arrived - and on my birthday as opposed to the early b-day present that I had expected. The reason for the delay was that Hypersonic (or the company they use for painting) had switched to a new thicker, more durable clear coat for the system and this extended the curing time by four days. The system looks awesome (as well as the Logitech Elite keyboard and MX-500 mouse that was custom painted as well).

The specs for the system are as follows:

17" WXGA+ Wide-screen High Contrast Active Matrix 1440x900 display
P4 3.4 GHZ Northwood CPU
256MB ATI Radeon Mobility 9700 Video Card
1024 Ram 400DDR Dual Channel (2-512MB)
Built-in ATA Hardware Raid controller - raid not configured
60GB 7200RPM Primary Drive
80GB 5400RPM Secondary Drive
2x DVD+/-R/W Drive w/software
Internal 802.11b+g Turbo 108mbps Wireless
Internal Bluetooth
Internal Subwoofer
Integrated 10/100/1000 Gigabit Ethernet Controller
6 in 1 Flash Card Memory Reader
Intergrated Digital Video Camera
Windows XP Professional Pre-installed
3 Year 24/7 Toll-Free Tech Support Platinum Service & Lifetime Support
All custom painted omniscient red metallic (to include external keyboard and mouse)

So as promised, I wanted to review the entire process and my initial review of the system itself. I have not tried gaming on it yet as I have been on the road (business oriented), however, when I get home, I will do so.

Order Process
As stated in my initial post back in March, I selected Hypersonic for three reasons; custom paint was available, no dead pixel guarantee and the application of the artic silver to the processor. I didn't mention also the fact that they had a 72-hour burn-in. I wanted to guarantee that the system was functioning properly before it was shipped because I am in Europe (civilian working for the US Army) and my mailing is via APO - meaning huge delays unless I want to deal with duty/import fees to Germany.

The ordering process went very well and shortly after my order was placed, I was contacted by a sales rep to see if I had any questions concerning the order and to let me know what was going to happen. I am in Europe, so that was nice.

I paid by Paypal and this slowed down the processing of my order. Because of the amount, the order had to be paid via Echeck which takes 3-4 business days. My order was on a Friday/Saturday, however, the payment was not posted until almost Friday. I lost a week waiting on this. If I had to do it again, I would have just used the credit card (I didn't because I wanted to avoid the call to the bank due to this large of a payment being shipped to a PO box).

During my waiting time (from the order date until it was shipped), I received four phone calls, several emails and even had the capability to chat with the sales rep via AIM. There were delays in getting answers, but keep in mind the difference of time zone. But with AIM, it was a lot easier to check the status or receive updates.

As mentioned above, the system was delayed four days due to the paint job. Prior to the shipping date, I had been notified that it should ship out as programmed, however, a follow up call stated that it was not ready and would be finalized within a couple days.

Shipping
APO shipping is not my preferred method, however, I do not have a lot of choices. I was looking into overnight and next day, but with the costs of duty/import, it was not worth it. So I decided to go with the APO shipping. One short fall due to military posts and APO shipping. There was an anthrax-related scare here that stopped all mail from being posted for three days until the results came back - I was mad as hell. But I would rather be safe than get infected. It ended up being something else, but needless to say, a delay.

The system was shipped out from Hypersonic on 30 April and arrived for me to pickup on 10 May (my birthday). I had told my wife and kids that if it had not arrived by then, they better go searching for it.

I was not expecting the package it came in. The box was huge. When I got home, I opened the first box and it was filled with my targus backpack (312 and awesome), keyboard, packing popcorn and another box. So we pulled out the items and the second box. Opened this box up and there was another box, more popcorn and a couple of other items. The last box was the box containing the standard case and the laptop. Opening the box also told me it was painted - boy the fumes.

It had arrived!

First Impression
I have read everyone's review of the 8790 and the GX-7 from others and so I was expecting a large laptop. But this was large. My current laptop was an Inspiron 8100 and it pales in comparison to the GX7. The texture of the case was different as well. The Inspiron has a rough texture where the GX7 was smooth (and the gloss probably didn't help it). And it was definitely heavy. The paint was smooth and I didn't not see any problems standing out on the case (cracks or orange peels).

Since I had to go on a trip, I was basically just setting it up and installing basic items (games would come this weekend). I installed the benchmark (3DMark03 and 3DMark 2001), anti-virus, DVD software, MP3s and documents directory. I even customized my boot screens and login screens (one customization broke it so I had to reload from the ghost image on the accompanied DVD and started again). I also installed the latest Omega drivers for the card.

Startup
My current system was only a P3 1.13ghz system, so I noticed that this was considerably faster (even after loading my software). Programs were popping up immediately on the system. I had to do some changing of stuff around because the bootup didn't ask me for my username (defaulted to Owner) and I wasn't going to have that. So I created my account, baselined my admin account and removed the Owner account. I also noticed that the Owner name and company was not asked for either and so every program I installed was asking for this. Simple registry fix and that was no longer an issue.

Display
Simply amazing. I had never heard much about dead pixels until I came to this forum back in January, and since then, I was really afraid of what I may get. I was extremely happy with my Inspiron, but it was slowing down in today's gaming, and so it was time for a replacement. So I paid extra and either luck or the guarantee, I had no dead pixels (stuck or otherwise). I also didn't see any spots where one may have been rubbed out.

I was amzed how comfortable it was using the resolution 1440x900. Even today, most of my systems are 1024x768. However, this was easy to look at and definitely a lot of landscape to work with. Full page viewing of the main page of Ebay has too much white space. But that is good for other apps. The display was just plain awesome.

Just briefly talking about the benchmarks, the graphics quality was again amazing. My wife was watching it from her chair to the extreme left of the machine and was still able to see the graphics clearly. I hadn't even thought about this until she said something. So I had to check it out myself.

Once I installed the Omega drivers, I found out that the system is clocked at approximately 420/270 or something like that (I am not at the system right now, just on break for lunch). I am going to look at how it is running when I get home and leave it running for awhile. I may be able to up it. However, the performance right now is great.

Sound
I am a bit confused on this one. I have seen a lot of people complain about the sound, but I am impressed. Maybe this is because of what I had previously. When I first played an MP3, it sounds very canny. However, once I went into the configuration and enable the 6-channel with the subwoofer and set the environment to LIVE/POP, it was great. And, I no longer have a need for the speakers that I kept near my recliner (my laptop lives with me in the living room next to my recliner).

I was expecting a poor experience from other reviews, but I am completely happy. I will see more when I put my games on the system, but DVD and MP3 wise, it was a lot better than what I had and very clear, loud and enjoyable!

Fans
This was another concern that I had about the system. I had seen a lot of reviews talking about the noice of the system and heat. In preparation, I ordered the cooling pad recommended by usrbin and had the system on it. I have to spend more time with this as the system was very wobbly on the cooling pad (due to the fans on the bottom of the system and the fans on the cooling pad is my assumption. But I don't want someone to bump into it and then the laptop crashes to the floor.

I have one fan (not sure which one yet) that kicks on about 50 degrees and it is noticeable. It is happening every five minutes or so (maybe not that short or not that long, but seems regular). With mob meter running, I am definitely seeing it is hitting around 50 and then kicks in. I am going to read through the forums and see what others have said about this. I know something was said about BIOS, however, I am going to wait until Hypersonic has something. Not sure if I want to take a risk from another company.

Other than that, it is not that noisy.

DVD Burner
Now this is noisy. I can definitely tell when there is a CD in the drive because the spinning up and usage of the CD is loud. There is a definite vibration. I have tried both DVDs and CDs and it is the same deal. Not sure what the problem is, but I made note of it to the customer service at Hypersonic and at the end of my review, you will see the out come.

Power Brick
I must have one of the newer models on it (I don't see a fan or a vent for a fan), however, this does not get hot at all. The longest the system has been running consecutively is about five hours or so, and I can comfortably hold the brick. It is warm, but not hot. Definitely happy…… oh… this thing is freaking large as well (or atleast larger than what I had previously). But not hot.

Targus Deluxe Backpack
I have had a Targus Backpack for a couple years, but this one is amazing. Not only does it handle the beast they call a GX7, but it is very comfortable to carry as well. This back pack has cushioned padding for your back, as well as on the straps. Without the laptop, this is great for other uses and very light. However, add the laptop and the power supply and you definitely can feel the weight. But the construction of the pack and the compartments are great. I am definitely glad I ordered this with the system.

I have not tried out the wireless yet. This weekend I will, but only on a B network. I haven't purchased more than that since in the past, only my wife has been using it (I need the speed for gaming). However, I do plan on getting a turbo access point - anyone with a recommendation? I have to order off the net as the only thing here in the PX is the US Robotics 100mbps which I hear you seldom get 100mbps.

I had forgotten all about the camera until I came across the icon in the "My Computer" and when I used it, I was impressed. It doesn't take a lot to impress me as it comes to cameras, as I don't normally use them (teleconferencing wise as well). However, this was good and has the capability to take pictures for those individuals who like the way they look when they are in front of their computer. Just kidding. No complaints.

I am not sure what else to say just yet. The 3D Mark 2001 was approximately 11800 and the 3D Mark 03 was approximately 3900 (this is from memory). When I am home this weekend, I will update and include gaming responses.

I also asked Hypersonic about the upgrading of the system to the new LCD and DVD burner. I was told that it would cost me shipping of my system back, but that it would be a free upgrade. There is a catch. First, I have a custom painted system, so because of this, I would have to pay for that due to the upgrade. Second, because of the shipping via APO, I will be without the system for at least 20 days, not including the 2-3 weeks for installation, paintinig, etc. I am opting not to do the LCD due to the fact that one, I don't want to be without the system that long and two, I am really happy with the current screen. Why upgrade?

As for the DVD burner, due to the issue I discussed above, they are going to paint the upgraded one and ship to me as a replacement. So I will be getting the 4x DVD+/-R/W. That will be nice. Not really concerned with the speed, just hoping to quiet it down. I was definitely happy with the offer.

In any case, this is my first review and I am really happy with Hypersonic and definitely with the system. Feel free to ask questions and I will answer as I can. I have included some pictures so you can drool over the paint job as I do. It really is a nice looking system.

Thanks!

Awesome review ratmyr...I've been waiting for a review on the GX7 for ages ..haha..So anyways.. They're going to send u a free upgrade for ur DVD burner?.....that's some good cust. service ..haha..

"I also noticed that the Owner name and company was asked for either and so every program I installed was asking for this. Simple registry fix and that was no longer an issue."

How did you get rid of this? Just wondering..haha thanks

Anyways..I'm looking forward to see some more benchmarks..haha..

Actually, it should read "was not asked for"... too much typing.

The registered name and company information is located in the registry under WindowsNT current version. I don't recommend someone to play in the registry if they are not used to doing so, as it can mess up the system. However, this is where it was located. Now, it displays my name when programs installed, thus keeping me from having to retype it.

I plan on doing some benchmarks tonight. I just got home and just set up the machine. I noticed that the system does not have a standard monitor VGA port on the back, rather a DVI adaptor. I had not noticed this before.

Also, I wanted to state that Hypersonic being willing to do the free upgrade is no different that what Sager/PCTorque were offering, or atleast I believe they are the same. That aside, I do believe that this is awesome customer service.

The following benchmarks are for your viewing pleasure.

3DMark 2001 - 12588



3DMark 03 - 3656



I bumped the settings for the video card up ti 460/290 since this is a level that Adam thought was safe on the 8790. I am going to see how it performs, and if needed, bump it back down.

Brilliant review ratmyr.

I'm looking forward to hear how the games and other benchmarks turn out. And how DVDs look and the works.

Will keep an eye on this thread.

:L:

Great to hear it got to you finally. Curious about the power supply... Did you order a spare? If so, are they the same? As I mentioned in a different thread, I ended up with 2 different power supplies.. one smaller unit with a fan and one large unit without. Both of mine are rated same output/input, just different designs.

As for the offer to redo the screen, thats handy to know, although frankly I think I prefer the 1440/900 res of the WXGA as it is. The DPI matches my 20" desktop LCD exactly (which runs at 1600x1200) and my eyes are accustomed to it.

So far there is nothing I would change on my GX-7. For a short while I thought I had a buggered up wireless card, but it turned out that I had a piece of crap netgear wireless router that like to drop connections periodically, no fault whatsoever of the GX-7's internal. Replaced the Netgear with a Linksys and now have zero probs.

Oh, there is one small nitpick I have with the GX-7. While all in all heat does not seem to be an issue (never see temp outside the range of 45-57 deg C during hard use), the left side CTRL key gets to be a minature frying pan after a few hours of intense gaming. It is wicking away a good chunk if heat. . .

- Card

P.S. Have had zero time to do up full review, been busy at work and doing beta- WoW ....

I did not order a second power supply. This one is about 8 inches (or so) long and there are no fans on it. The system has been running for over 24 hours and is warm to hot, but nothing bad at all. Once you hold it, it is comfortable.

I haven't tried the wireless yet as I need to find a good router/access point. I have a B network right now and it works, but I want the faster speed if I plan on going cable-less.

But as you said, I wouldn't change anything as well. I am looking forward to the 4x drive in hopes that it will lessen the noise I hear with the 2x, but other than that, I am completely happy.

Loading up Unreal II now. I thought I had tournament here, but I can't find it. I guess it will be a trip to the PX tomorrow to get something newer. Warcraft was nice on it (III).

wow good review, its nice to know that hypersonic stands behind their systems so well. i wanted to be a hypersonic but they charge sales tax in ny, which will end up costing me an extra 300-400$, a little much, considering a hypersonic would be more alot more expensive than a sager already....

Sales tax does make a difference. For me, I live in Germany with a military mailing address (APO) based out of NY. Depending on the company (if they know how to deal with APOs) sometimes I am charged the sales tax for NY and other times I am not. So I have to be careful and until I went 75% through the sales process, I was not sure if Hypersonic was going to be the same way. My home state is Florida, so I would have been in a similar boat if I was there and went after the 8790 from PCTorque (even though I would love to walk into a store and see these systems instead of buying off reviews and pictures).

For those looking for more reviews, here is what I have so far:

PCMark 03


Passmark's Performance Test v.5.0


AquaMark3


Results from SiSoftware Sandra (not sure how this compares to others, but this is the score I just received):
Display on Screen
Device Type : Desktop/Notebook

CPU Arithmetic Benchmark
Combined Index : 14308 (total)
Finished Successfully : Yes

CPU Multi-Media Benchmark
Combined Index : 62008 (total)
Finished Successfully : Yes

Memory Bandwidth Benchmark
Combined Index : 8131 (total)
Finished Successfully : Yes

File System Benchmark
Combined Index : 24872 (total)
Finished Successfully : Yes

Network/LAN Bandwidth Benchmark
Combined Index : 10244 (total)
Finished Successfully : Yes

Combined Performance Index Wizard
Combined Index : 2981 (total)
Finished Successfully : Yes

Results from Crystal Mark:
CrystalMark : 62183

I have not done a benchmark test of UT yet. I have played it and boy, it is extremely enjoyable, but I have not done the test. I will post later today however (time to get some lunch).

Also, sound wise, I have been playing MP3s all morning and I can hear the sound system upstairs when I move from one floor to another. The sound can get loud and still clear. All of this with internal speakers.

Note to those who have not read this in other reviews (sometimes it is overlooked). The laptop has a DVI connector on it and if you plan on connecting it to a monitor without this interface, you will need an adaptor. I am not sure if the 8790s are coming with one, but the Hypersonic does not. So keep this in mind when picking up accessories.

Thanks.

Hey ratmyr,
I have a few questions hehe..I'm deciding on buying the gx7, but I just am wondering....Is the notebook really big? To the point of it being almost immobile? How would you rate the mobility? Because i checked out a toshiba P-20 the other day, and boy was that huge and heavy....If you know how much it weighs....would u say it is heavier or lighter than that....and overall in general...Is the weight managable to bring around?
Btw...When something new pops up after you get ur gx7, just like the dvd 4x...will they always offer free upgrades?

and lastly...do u recommend this notebook to me if I'm going off to college?
and I'm not sure if u mentioned it or not...how's battery life if say you're just browsing on the internet and working in ms word?
thanks

Just a few questions, eh? I have some "Not sure" for you.

The system is big. Is it mobile? Yes. Could it be difficult to use when you are mobile (for instance, on a plane, small table tops, etc)? Yes.

I am not sure what the Toshiba P-20 looks like (I don't see much of them around on the Germany economy where I live and the PX on post only has HPs, Sonys, etc). If you know what the 7000 series of the HP looks like, the system is slightly bigger than that (my opinion).

However, I toted it around a lot last week. I took it to a couple of meetings with me (not to use, rather to show off) and I was sporting it around in the targus backpack. I didn't have a problem carrying it around. But it is heavy (I am estimating around 9-10lbs).

As for the upgrades of the system, I do not think this is the norm. I believe what made the difference was that the system was still there in their possession the week the upgrades became available (just as current orders may have been receiving free upgrades). I really can't answer this question... maybe the individuals in Sales could.

College - another not sure. Depends on the classes you are talking about, as well as the work space you have available. What I had when I was going to college, I can't imagine this taking up the space on it. There are some owners of the 8790 that I believe are using it for college and can give you a bit more of an idea. One individual (name has slipped my memory, but posted an updated review two days ago) stated the fans was noticeable to others.

As for the battery, I have yet to test it out. I am expecting it to die out after an hour or so. But I seldom use the battery, so it isn't one of my top priorities and I don't want to drain it down and end up losing a precentage of availability (may be a rumor, however, I don't want to take a chance).

Not sure how much of help this was. But would I recommend the GX-7? Most definitely. Even being big and heavy, it can still be mobile. I have even seen reviews of individuals carrying it with their greek books. Can't be too bad. But I absolutely love playing on this.

Ratmyr,

I have a couple of questions for you...


1) How solid is the keyboard on your system? Is it really solid and quiet or is there a need to perform the stupid keyboard knocking fixes like we had to on the Sager 8890's?

2) Have you used headphones with your system yet? Some people have been complaining about hearing distortion and interference noises from spinning HDD's, fans, and such on the 8790 while listening to music through headphones. Any problems that way with your GX7?

3) I know you mentioned the fan on the GX7, but are they annoying or do they give you a headache? I ask this because the fans on the 8890 weren't what I'd call really loud, but it was so high pitched that I could only work on it for 45 minutes before getting a headache from the whine. (I'm still in the process of trying to fix that fan if possible). Anymore info about the GX7 fan would be appreciated.

4) How nice is the paint job? Nice consistency? Flawless or are there mistakes?


Thanks much in advance for your answers, and congrats on your new system!

Bump one time for ratmyr's review

pics?

So is Ratmyr MIA? I got to here from some Hypersonic owners -I jonesin' for my newly ordered GX7