Overview: The new 15" MacBook Pro

Earlier today, Apple released new MacBook Pros. The 15", middle-of-the-line model hits the sweet spot for many MBP customers, and this latest iteration is just as desirable as its predecessors.

This model comes in two main configurations, distinguished by either an Intel Core i5 (2.4GHz or 2.53GHz) or Core i7 (2.66GHz) processor. Apple claims that they boost performance by 50% over the previous generation MacBook Pros (I can only imagine what my experience would be switching from a 2GHz Intel Core Duo).

All configurations start off with 4GB of RAM (upgradable to 8GB). As for the hard drive, the base 2.53GHz i5 and 2.66GHz i7 feature a 500GB Serial ATA Drive (5400 rpm) with several upgrade options, including:

• 500GB Serial ATA Drive (7200 rpm)

• 128GB Solid State Drive

• 256GB Solid State Drive

• 512GB Solid State Drive

That 512GB solid state drive will run you a whopping US$1,250! The base 2.4GHz i5 has a 320GB serial ATA drive and follows the same upgrade path with the addition of the 500GB Serial ATA Drive (5400 rpm).

As for graphics, the 2.4GHz and 2.53GHz i5 machines feature the NVIDIA GeForce GT 330M with 256MB, while the 2.66GHz i7 model boosts it up to 512MB.

From there, the usual options and accessories are available, like glossy vs. non-glossy display options (with the higher-resolution panel) and pre-installed software like iWork, Final Cut Express, Aperture and more.

So what do they run? The 2.4GHz, 2.53GHz and 2.66GHz models start at $1,799, $1,999 and $2,199 respectively. They're shipping within 24 hours.