Sony Takes Vaio PCs to Core 2 Quad

Electronics giant Sony is the first to embrace Intel's Core 2 Quad processor, packing the CPU into its high-end VAIO R Master desktop system.

For the time being it’s only going to be available in Japan, but electronics giant Sony has taken the lead in adopting Intel’s new Core 2 Quad processors by offering the new chip as an option is its high-end Vaio R Master desktop media PCs (Japanese).

The Vaio R Master sports Sony’s oddball “split” form factor, which tries to reduce the bulk of a typical PC casing by separating the most frequently-used inputs and output into a smaller slab which can be separated from the main unit by a tether carrying USB and PCI data. The theory is that users can then pack the main CPU out of sight while maintaining a svelte on-desk form factor.

The new Vaio R Master will offer an option for a Core 2 Quad Q6600 processor running at 2.4 GHz, along with a Blu-ray burner, support for up to 3 G of RAM, up to 3 TB of SATA hard disk storage, and and Nvidia Quadro FX 1500 graphics controller, all adding up to a very quick system for enjoying high-definition content or (dare we say it) even creating some of your own, since it comes with a bunch of video editing and content-capture software, along with Adobe Premiere Pro 2.0. The New Vaio R Masters are set to launch in Japan with Vista Home Premium in early February—but be prepared to pay. With display, storage, and the Core 2 Quad, these units will run upward of ¥990,000 (or over USD $8,200)