Date: December 24th, 2004
Article by: Nathan Glentworth (Owner, Head Editor & Hardware Reviewer)
Product Submitted by: ATI
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PRODUCT COMPOSITION (cont'd)

The input block is much more simple with the only connections being for the S-Video and composite video and audio. Missing was any sort of digital sound input in case your particular motherboard doesn't have a digital audio connections. This could be an option they might introduce in the next product cycle seeing more and more multimedia devices are supporting native high definition audio.

Both blocks connect to the main dongle and are keyed to only go in a certain way on the appropriate connection. Do not force the connector in. If it is aligned properly, it will slide in with minimal effort. Speaking of blocks, I just have to point out the following.

Instead of the one input block and separate output dongle on the older All in Wonders, the two new blocks can be mounted separately or can be attached together to make a multimedia hub to place on your desk. Now the kicker is they didn't include anyway to attach it somewhere on your desk without slipping off and falling onto the floor. With a little work you can go to your local hardware store, pick up some Velcro and attach it to your desk for easy access and removal.

Now some people will be wondering where the Remote Wonder is? Well, this model seems to not come equipped whereas the older model did. Although a little disappointing, there is a 50% off coupon when you buy the Remote Wonder through ATI.com.

I still think it should be included. Hell, the old AIW 7500 came with it, why shoud the new PCI Express version not have it.

PRODUCT VALUE FOR THE MONEY

Now a lot of people are saying that laying down US$299 bucks for a videocard is a little tough. But, when you add everything that comes with the package, it's actually quite a steal.

Take these prices for example (USD):

Serious Magic's Visual Communicator: US$99
Pinnacle Studio SE: US$99
Matchware Mediator 7: US$69
GemStar's GuidePlus+: US$249 Lifetime Subscription (which is included with this card)
Muvee AutoProducer DVD Edition: US$49.95

Add those up: ~US$565.95 + the actual value of the videocard!

Now you see, for US$220 , you get nearly US$566 worth of value and that is not even taking in the videocard into the equation!


These All in Wonder Cards bring hands down the best bang for the buck on the market. The software alone is worth more than the actual whole pricetag.