6/26/08 - Sony's Vaio TP20E/B offers some strong features for those looking to integrated it into a Sony based home theater setup. The TP20 can connect via a cable to the Bravia to allow for a single remote to control both units. Definitely an excellent feature but limited to just Sony brand products.

In terms of its home theater features, the TP20 is a definite step up from previous versions thanks to the inclusion of a DVD burner that also has the ability to play back Sony's Blu-ray high definition movie format. The only way that could be improved is the ability to also burn to Blu-ray drives, but for this price range, it is still an excellent feature. The digital tuner also allows it to record and playback high definition TV over the air.

There are some issues though with its home theater features. First, the hard drive is on the small side compared to many other HTPC systems. The 500GB will limit the amount of video that can be stored on the system, particularly if it is recorded in high definition. The other problem is that the system does not have any means to support CableCard. This prevents it from being used with cable or satellite systems directly, two of the most common methods for receiving high definition TV.

In terms of computing power, the VAIO TP20 is a bit underpowered compared to other systems. This is because Sony relies on using mobile parts typically found in laptop PCs. This does help the overall power consumption of the system and it greatly reduces the amount of heat and noise generated by the TP20, both of which can benefit a PC in a home theater setup. It just can't power through tasks like transcoding video like a standard desktop based HTPC can.