SZ680 DVI dying...what should I replace it with?

My three year old SZ680 has started to have 'issues' when using DVI in the dock. The DVI monitor image blacks out intermittently for no reason. I've tried a different monitor and DVI cable, but the problem remains. Using VGA isn't an option because the image quality via the dock is horrible on an HD monitor. I assume it's the Nvidia GPU problem and my GPU is probably on the way out.

Anyway, I'm thinking of replacing it but can't really find a comparable Sony I like. The Z series looks OK but I assume they are about to be phased out. The EB is too heavy. What is a good replacement for the SZ with a similar form factor? I saw the new Dell XPS and it looked pretty ordinary as well.

 

You might want to consider the VAIO S series.

 

Does this happen in stamina mode as well?
Does it happen with the VGA connector?

I ask because you seem to imply it only happens with the dock, which means it could be the dock, or the internal docking connector. When the Nvidia goes out, they typically create lots of odd colors and bands, not just blank out the screen.

As for alternatives I would focus on Asus, Sony and Toshiba personally but, here is a decent list of smaller systems...
For Cheap
Look at the Dell Vostro (business model). It's an interesting system, but the price makes me skeptical, being a Dell doesn't help either in my book.
For Midrange
The Sony S (remember, while not bad, this is not an Sz replacement, the Z was/is).
Asus UX(?), and the Toshiba R700 and R705
For upper midrange
Look at Dell XPS and Alienware lines. They have some interesting offerings if you need serious graphics power.

To truly replace your SZ, the only real upgrade is the Z.

Personally, I like the Toshiba...
It's thinner and lighter than the SZ, with better battery life and has a metal chassis and lid. The only downside is it only has Intel graphics. Check specs though, because you need the more expensive one if you want built in bluetooth. The two models are very similar, but the small details may be important for you.


I wouldn't say the Z is ready to be phased out.
I suspect it may be in for a CPU/GPU change once Sandy bridge gets settled and Sony gets around to it again, but there is no need at the moment for them to outright replace it. There is nothing comparable to it. That isn't to say the update won't come with a whole new system, but even if they did phase it out, it will remain a wonderful laptop for some time still.


Look up how your SZ's processor fares next to newer offerings.
More memory along makes it comparable to a nice midrange laptop. An SSD and extra memory brings it right back to the forefront. Not many 3-4 year old notebooks can do that. Remember, today we have everything from Atoms (equal to a Celeron 800!) to I7's being used. Hardware today is more than powerful enough to do the job. The upper end Core 2 series (which is/was and awesome processor) is close to upper end I5 performance. All other things being equal, to see a noticeable speed difference, you will need a low to mid level I7.

Before you buy new, figure out what your goals are because very few systems will truly replace your SZ and be a true upgrade.

 

I'll most probably replace my SZ with the upcoming SA. I like the 13" MBP but that will likely lack WWAN which is a deal breaker to me. The SA will most likely be better speced and but the MBP of course offers the advantages of dual booting
W7/MacOSX. This is appealing to me as i've just picked up again filming and editing movie footage.
The Samsung S9 looks like a potential contender but it doesn't include a built in drive. I'm not sure if this a requirement for you though.
The display on the S series might be inferior to the SZ display.

The SZ is a nice laptop. Mine will be three years old this April, for me it's getting on now and i have usually upgraded in the past around the three years mark. I do think though that the SZ has holded its own for a long time and I think that says something for buying a top of the line laptop and making it more future proof. Also, the market has changed and we've seen more ULV notebooks introduced so that is partly the reason as well.

I don't really like that the SZ is so picky about what can be installed. I've read that later Sony's are more flexible in this regards. The SZ cannot also natively use ACHI which is a pain.
I've already upgraded to an SSD and have upgraded to W7 64bit. The 8400GS is problematic and partly for that reason i've never even used it. The x3100 card is not ideal for viewing HD content. Looks wise i would like something different also, something other than black.

The OP is having problems with their graphics card it seems so may be it is time for them to move on.

 

As said above, coming from SZ71 myself, only Vaio Z is a "true" replacement, as being successor of SZ series. What you should also consider is your laptop life-cycle, how often you replace your laptop... it may not be a bad idea to wait a little longer and see various manufacturers offering their SB laptops. What's more important to me (more than SB) is SSD. That would really make some (noticeable) difference. Colleague of mine has Toshiba R700 and it's pretty nice, thin, well built laptop, I like its design very much, maybe 2nd to Vaio Z. Next thing is if you want to be "faithful" to Sony or other brands also come into consideration... You should also give a look at new Asus U36.

You didn't mention anything about dedicated GPU, is it important for you or not?

Cheers,
Miki