Strengths:Core 2 Duo 64 bit processing.
2 GB RAM standard on SE models.
New Santa Rosa architecture and X3100 graphics.
Excellent screen quality.
Good battery life relative to processing power.
Weaknesses:Integrated webcam has only VGA resolution.
Glossy screen is a bit reflective.
Posted Oct 3, 2007 - The HP DV-6500 series offers great value with near state of the are features and specifications. My unit is a Special Edition variation of the 6500 packaged for Best Buy. This model features the Intel Core 2 Duo T5250, an exception 15.4 widescreen display, 2 GB RAM, a 200 GB Hard drive, remote control and a distinctive off-white glossy case design. Like all current HP models, it also features integrated Quickplay operation for accessing the multimedia aspects of the machine.
The SE edition is based around Intel's newer Santa Rosa architecture with increased bus speed and improved X3100 integrated graphics. Its a solid multimedia machine, and as such, already incorporates the 2 GB RAM necessary for running Vista in combination with CPU intensive applications. The SE edition is built to a very favorable price point with few compromises.
One concern I had prior to purchasing was the use of the Intel T5250 Core 2 Duo which only runs at 1.5 ghz and is the entry point of the Santa Rosa processors. Most Santa Rosa based machines use the T7xxx series which run closer to or above 2 ghz. I imagine use of the T5250 was a way for HP to offer a lower price point. In practice, the T5250 is a good performer, and working in concert with 2GB RAM and the X3100 graphics, is not at all limiting. In fact, the 1.5 ghz operation may be contributing to the excellent 4 hour plus battery life I am experiencing. The SE model also includes the higher capacity 12 cell battery. Though including 2 GB of RAM, the Santa Rosa architecture accepts a total of 4 GB for future expansion.
In terms of features, it lacks for little. Included are 3 USB ports, one Firewire port, infrared remote capability, two audio out jacks with one being havin digital S/PDIF output, a 5-in-1 card reader and DVD burner with Lightscribe labelling.
The machine is a pleasure to use. The screen is outstanding though some may not like the reflectivity of the glossy screen. The build quality is solid and comparable to the best units. The keyboard is well made, but a bit springy. The touchpad feature an integrated scrolling strip which works well. The unit runs way cooler and quieter than the Compaq AMD based machine this is replacing. Audio quality seems to also be on par with the better notebooks.
Its too soon to make predications about reliability, but given my previous experience with a previous Compaq moel and all I have read, I expect reliability to be good. Again, the apparent build quality is high.
My standard for comparison in computing quality remains with Apple. I own a three year old iBook and prefer Mac OS to Windows XP or Vista. However, some programs I run only have Windows versions so I need to keep a PC on hand. That said, it seems that HP has taken a page out of Apple's book in designing these new machines. Screen quality is on par or better than on the Macbooks and certainly bigger than the 13.3 size that Apple only offers. The HP included remote and Quickplay combination works similar to Apple's Front Row feature. While the Apple's come with no additional bloatware installed, HP kept this to a minimum. The HP specific software, including an electronic update feature, is actually useful. Given that Vista also seems to borrow from MAC OS X, the overall HP computing experience is not far off in performance and build quality from what Apple offers, at a price point lower by $300 or so.
Overall, even as an admitted Apple guy, the HP 6500 series is impressive, enjoyable to use, and an excellent value. The Special Edition models come especially recommended.
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