Winbook's $999 PowerSpec MCE 410 Media Center PC

Not too long ago, if you wanted a sub-$1,000 Media Center PC, your only option was to skimp on key features like a TV tuner (and even then, there weren't a lot of choices). Now, the market is starting to open up, and Winbook is the latest to break that key psychological price barrier. The $999 (after a $200 rebate) PowerSpec MCE 410 includes most of the features you'd expect from an MCPC, including an integrated TV tuner, dual-layer DVD burner and 160GB hard drive.
Of course, the price tag doesn't include a display (unlike
Gateway's $899 3250X — though that only includes a puny 15-inch screen), and the display that Winbook is pitching with the MCE 410 is a 30-inch LCD that'll set you back another grand. Still, it's nice to see prices coming down on what were once seen as luxury boxes. At this rate, it won't be long before you'll be able to convince your boss to buy you one for the office (well, maybe not).