beblu Pentium M component HTPC

beblu Mk 2

A couple of months ago, we took a look at the bebu component Media Center system. Back then, we said that it was a nice looking system, with a couple of shortfalls. These were that the system was underpowered and that it lacked WiFi, as well as displaying some niggles with build quality.

Fast forward to today, and we're looking at a second revision of the modular system. This version of the beblu sports a Pentium M chip rather than the Via Epia board and chip that was fitted previously. It also has better integrated graphics and WiFi fitted as standard. Let's get on and take a look.

This version of the machine comes in a sexy black finish, rather than the matt silver that we saw previously. Which you like will depend on your personal preferences, but it's worth noting that you can tailor the system so you can pick any colour on any system. You can also buy the cases separately from beblu, if you want to build your own mini-ITX system.

As before, this system comes with a 'component' DVD drive - it connects over USB and takes its power from the main system. The idea is that extra components - such as storage or media functionality - can be added via USB to make a stackable media system akin to a Hi-Fi.

In this version of the machine, the specifications are:

• Pentium M 1.8GHz chip with 2MB cache
  
• Intel 915GM integrated graphics
  
• 512MB DDR2 RAM
  
• 200GB Seagate 7200 RPM drive
  
• AC97 audio 5.1 audio with digital out
  
• Hauppauge WinTV card with DVB-T tuner
  
• 802.11G wireless and antenna
  
• Gigabit ethernet and 10/100 ethernet
  
• 20x4 LCD with support for Media Center
  
• Media Center remote and integrated IR receiver

All of this will set you back £1,199, directly from beblu.net. You can add in a larger hard drive and more memory if you want. Let's take a closer look at the insides.