Ultimate Notebook Reviews

Apple MacBook Pro with 17" Display (Model: MA897LL/A)

If you are looking for superior processing capabilities alongside very attractive architecture, then you definitely need to take a look at the new MacBook Pro (Model: MA897LL/A) by Apple. This MacBook is run by an Intel Core2 Duo mobile processor, which is essentially two processors in one, offering great performance when working on multiple projects at once. While operating at lower temperatures, this processor is also more energy efficient than its predecessors, so you are helping to save the environment as well.

In addition to two processors in one, the MA897LL/A MacBook is complimented with 2GB of PC2-5300 DDR2 SDRAM to really prepare you for any program out there. In case you like to run a plethora of resource intensive programs at once, the MacBook can also expand to 4GB of RAM via two SoDIMM slots.

Personally, my favorite part of this new MacBook is the DVD+-RW / CD-RW drive mechanism, that can record up to 8.5GB of data or 5 hours of video using compatible DVD+R DL and DVD-R DL media. Rather than having an archaic, flimsy looking disc tray going in and out, there is slot loading drive instead. The slot loading drive is basically the same as the loading mechanism for CDs that you see built into cars, which is very slowly becoming the standard for notebook PCs.

Unfortunately, the MA897LL/A MacBook does not have S-Video out capabilities, but does allow for dual display and video mirroring capabilities through DVI and VGA outputs (DVI-to-VGA adapter included). As you would come to expect from Apple, this notebook is set and ready for the graphic artist. There's an NVIDIA GeForce 8600M GT video card with 256MB of GDDR3 SDRAM, and a large 160GB Serial ATA hard drive (5400 rpm) with a "sudden motion sensor" to help protect your data in case of an accidental fall.

Software-wise, this MacBook Pro comes preinstalled with Mac OS X 10.4 "Tiger", as well as the usual software bundles from Apple, including Spotlight, Safari, QuickTime, iTunes, iPhoto, iMovie HD, iDVD, iWeb, iChat AV, and more.

Overall, I would give the MA897LL/A MacBook Pro a 9/10 for Apple lovers.