Like Mesh's Matrix II, the RL Supplies Modula AX2-920 is a quad-core system based on the AMD Phenom II 920 processor. Such systems struggle to keep up with Intel's Core 2 Duo E8600 for common single-threaded tasks, but come into their own when multitasking or running multithreaded applications.
Unsurprisingly, then, the RL Supplies Modula AX2-920 scored more poorly in our WorldBench 6 speed test than the dual-core systems higher up the chart. Indeed, with 109 points the Modula was beaten by the quad-core Mesh as well.
Whereas Mesh has gone for a do-it-all system with full-HD support and surround sound, the RL Supplies Modula AX2-920 offers a more modest specification - albeit with a considerably larger, 750GB hard drive.
The RL Supplies Modula AX2-920's standard 22in monitor doesn't offer the 1,080 resolution you get with the Mesh's Iiyama display. On the plus side, elements such as icons and text appear somewhat larger and you may find them easier to read.
The RL Supplies Modula AX2-920's nVidia GeForce 9600 GT graphics card delivers slightly better gaming performance than the CyberPower's HD 4670, but it's still considerably weaker than that achieved by the HD 4850.
We aren't keen on the RL Supplies Modula AX2-920's power supply. It has no PCI Express connectors and so requires an adaptor cable to power the graphics card. While the GeForce 9600 GT doesn't drain a lot of power, this isn't a recommended solution and could cause difficulties later if you upgrade the graphics.
Chart ranking: budget desktop PCs (June 09 issue)
- Arbico CD 8850 XL
- Chillblast Fusion Isis
- Mesh Matrix II 920
- CyberPower Gamer Infinity 850
- RL Supplies Modula AX2-920
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