After focusing exclusively on laptops since 2001, Toshiba has launched its first desktop PC for the U.S. market in 10 years. Already on sale in Japan since last summer as the Dynabook Qosmio DX, the company's first all-in-one PC for the U.S. market will be known as the DX1215 when it goes on sale next month. Designed as an all-purpose entertainment hub, the unit features a 21.5-inch 1920 x 1080 resolution touchscreen display, HDMI in port, and premium speakers that can be used even when the PC is off thanks to Toshiba's Sleep & Music mode.
The DX1215 offers a choice of 2nd generation Intel Core i5 or i7 processors and comes with 4GM of RAM, a 1TB 7200 rpm HDD and built-in DVD SuperMulti Drive. The HDMI in port allows the LED backlit display to be hooked up to other HDMI-equipped devices, such as a games console or Blu-ray player. Other connectivity features include a multi-card reader and USB ports aplenty - four USB 2.0 ports on the back and two USB 3.0 ports on the side. Users can also charge most devices via USB when the PC is off using Toshiba's Sleep & Charge function.
The unit's premium audio system includes downward facing Onkyo stereo speakers featuring Waves MaxxAudio processors that reflect the sound off the desktop to provide a wider soundscape. While the speakers can be used to listen to music when the DX1215 is off with Toshiba's Sleep & Music, the company warns that volume and sound quality will suffer in this mode.
To keep desktop clutter to a minimum, the DX1215 comes with a pre-paired Bluetooth keyboard that includes a number pad and media buttons, along with a wireless mouse.
Toshiba will also offer the option of a built-in TV tuner, which will be able to take advantage of Toshiba's Resolution+ video upconversion technology that adjusts the color, brightness and contrast of standard-definition video and DVDs in real time to give a "more high-def look and feel."
In the U.S., the DX1215 will be available exclusively through Best Buy from July 3, 2011, with prices starting at US$929.99. Toshiba hasn't revealed if or when it will make the device available in other markets as yet.