Build quality of new 17"Sony AX / BX series

Had a chance to be hands on with the new Sony VGN-AX570G
which is the consumer version of the upcoming BX 17" laptop. This unit was built in China like the FS,FJ series yet in my opinion had a very cheap build quality and feel to it. Case and keyboard flex were obvious throughout. The whole unit felt inexpensive and had an inexpensive plastic feel to it. Having used both FS and FJ series...the build quality of the VGN-AX570G is inferior to these other series. I couldn't help but wonder if this is what the BX series will be like once released. The VGN-AX570G has great specs yet I would feel worried spending 2300.00 on this unit and then subjecting it to an active mobile lifestyle. The one shining spot on this unit is the 17" x-brite (non-eco) - Stunning!! The screen sells this unit; not the build quality. Would like to hear others opinions on this.

 

I've always been impressed with the FS series' build quality and displays. I can't help but say that I am dissappointed in what I am hearing about the new Sony models. I have always held their notebooks in high regard, but now I think that the new models will dent my image of them...

I'll drop by a computer store this week and see if I can get my hands on an FJ/etc, then post my impressions.

 

I thought the BXs were supposed to be carbon fiber? They should be sturdy.

 

Yeah, I'm sure they are carbon fiber, not plastic like the old B models. umm, will be disappointed if the quality is bad,

i had my mind set on a BX, considering sony uk list the BX in their prestige range i would be surprised if the build quality was like you described.

 

The one thing that really dissappoints me about the new BX is it's subpar battery life - only about two and a half hours. A 14" Centrino-based notebook should get much more than that.

 

Too bad that the battery life is so poor because that may be the reason why they put an XBrite ECO into the 15,4" model instead of a normal one with 2 lamps (like the FS eg.)

 

i checked out the FJ yesterday when i was at office depot, I was looking at a Microsoft Laser 6000 mouse, I think i will have to buy one because it is just so **** pretty, and Microsoft makes the most comfortable mouses ever.

The FJ looked great to me, i think in a few years I want to get a more portable notebook to go along with my N6210, I will definitely give sony a serious look.

 

That would be really cool -- I'm wondering why theres no mention of carbon fibre here: http://www.sonystyle.com/is-bin/INT...=hid_bx_microsite&DCMP=BXSERIES&HQS=vanityURL

They mention magnesium alloy covers, but apparently its only available on the 14" models, which seems rather odd to me ...

 

Vaio S series uses Magnesium Alloy Case too, I guess Magnesium Alloy Case is only available under 14" screen size notebook....

 

Sonys all have excellent build quality IMO; you can't go wrong by buying one!

 

I could be wrong, but I though I heard it.

 

Unfortunately, Sony did say magnesium alloy is only available on 14" BX in BX series.

 

Well i guess the only thing will be to wait for a review to settle things,

was that 2.5 hours of battery life given to the whole range?, because if so, the 14 and 15 inchers should get a little more life due to the reduced screen size.

 

Since the BX is business class they might offer a modular battery.

 

what's a modular battery??

 

Bren - the battery estimate was from the Cnet review of the 14.1" model. A modular battery is a battery that goes in the swappable bay. In a modular bay you can swap a CD drive for a battery for a hard drive for a whatever. Dell used to have them, IBM has them, and Sony is entering the fray. They're very useful, but usually expensive.

 

cool, them swapable bays are a good idea,

to bad you can only buy them from the manufacture which makes them expensive.