Roxio versus Nero

Two of the most popular consumer level DVD authoring programs are made by Roxio and Nero.  Roxio's Easy Media Creator and Nero's Suite are both priced around $100 and provide about the same features.  The goal of these products is to bring media management and creation to the desktop for the every day person.  With these applications you can import video and pictures from your camera, edit them, and then make your own DVD's.  While both products aim for simplicity they are in many ways complicated and buggy.  In addition the bundled software take over your computer by making itself the default application for every media file type available.  Fortunately Windows Vista Home Premium now comes with Windows Movie Maker and Windows DVD Maker which should be able to meet most of the needs of the everyday person.  If you needed features beyond what Windows Vista can provide, I'd recommend going with Nero first.

iPhone Review Roundup

While it may be possible that someone has not heard the buzz surrounding Apple's release of the iPhone on June 29th here is a round up of iPhone reviews to help you determine if your $600 is worth the revolutionary new mobile phone.

• Engadget
• CNET
• PC Magazine
• Wall Street Journal
• Ars Technica
• Gizmodo

Activating your iPhone will require an update to iTunes 7.3 or higher.
Online video tutorials have been provided by Apple to get you acclimated to the revolutionary multi-touch interfaced mobile phone.

Xbox 360 Elite Review

If you've been tempted to go out an replace or get your own Xbox 360 Elite, you would be wise to first read Ars Technica's review fo the so-called "elite" console.

Here's a summary of what you'll get over the traditional Xbox 360 Premium system (in order of value):

• 120 GB Hard drive (for storing more Xbox Live Marketplace content)
• HDMI Output (one cable to support high-definition audio and video)
• Black (yes, it's black instead of white)
• Elite price tag (the Elite costs $180 more)
• Bragging rights
  

Here's a summary of what they missed:

• Wireless
• HD-DVD built-in drive
• Quieter and cooler console

Link to Xbox 360 Elite Review

Ars Technica Wii-view: A review of the Nintendo Wii

If you are shopping for a gaming console for you or a loved one this season you may want to read Ars Technica's review of the Nintendo Wii. The price is right, and the features are revolutionary.

Other reviews:
Sony Playstation 3
Microsoft Xbox 360