One side of the next generation

A couple months ago I was offered a nice deal on Microsoft’s latest console and couldn’t resist. So, even though most of the current games really aren’t my cup of tea, here I was, a brand new owner of Xbox 360 Premium edition.

The major difference between the two editions is the hard drive. The cheaper Core edition doesn’t have one. In addition the Premium edition packs component cables, a wireless controller and a headset with microphone.

The console itself is roughly the same size and weight as the original Xbox. You can place it either horizontally or vertically. It looks more elegant than the previous one and is available in just one color, white. I like the color, but it probably bums those who demand even their toilet paper in black because it’s so much better. Fear not, Microsoft has released a black one under the suitable name of Elite Edition. The elite edition also brings a 120 Gb hard disk and HDMI support.

While the Xbox had internal power supply, Xbox 360 has a huge external one. That’s right, folks. It is huge. It’s about the height of Nintendo Wii and weighs about as much. Fortunately it is easy to hide and forget.

The thing you can’t forget is the noise. Xbox 360 is the loudest console I’ve ever owned (or used). The noise varies a bit on whether you’ve placed the console sideways or upwards but remains nevertheless, and I’m talking about idle noise here. Whenever a game or something else that’s processor intensive is running, it turns up a notch. When you put a disc inside, the DVD drive steals the show, rocking like a hurricane. If I had my consoles in a cabinet or something, it wouldn’t be so much of an issue I guess.

Having the console only a couple of feet away isn’t helping either. Those who have computers with turbines for cooling or tend to have volume buttons stuck on loud are going to be pleasantly surprised by the fan noise. I was plain bothered. In all honesty, I have to say that from what I’ve read, there seem to be differences in noise levels. Some Xbox 360 units are reported much quieter than others.

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