Cons: Inherent dead pixels, limited connectivity options
The Bottom Line: A gorgeous and ideal companion for a high-end Apple desktop and a must for those seeking to reap maximum functionality from their computers. But beware of dead pixels.
megaxan's Full Review: Apple M9178B/A 23 inch LCD Monitor
After receiving my long-awaited G4 desktop I journeyed down to the Apple Store to find its mate and came home with Apple's beautiful 23" Cinema Display. It was to replace a 21" Sony Trinitron display and dutifully rose to meet meet this task.
As is typical of all Apple's products, the display was efficiently and elegantly packaged - wrapped in a protective sheath and surrounded in styrofoam in a box just larger than the display itself. Attached to the back of the display is Apple's display to computer cable (ADC). Although this interface works great for connection to an Apple Desktop, an adaptor is required to convert it to the VGA standard on PC desktops and video cards. This adaptor is not included and comes with a not insubstantial price tag for what appears to be a simple conversion. However, Apple user's will appreciate the increased functionality provided by the Apple Display Connector as the power button on the face of the display acts as the power button for the whole system.
Also, included on the body of the display are two USB ports. I welcome the increased USB connectivity that this offers, however, these ports could be better utilized if placed on the front or side of the display rather than on the back of the display.
The functional design of the display is a stroke of genius. Two stationary legs on the front of the display and one pivoting from the back solidly support the relatively lightweight 25 lbs. of the monitor. The distance between the two front legs perfectly accommodates Apple's keyboard to be tucked away when not in use. The pivoting leg is easily moved to adjust the angle of the screen and its hollowed out center provides a convenient opening to pass the cable through en route to the computer.
The durability of the pivoting system comes into question when noting the lack of a locking mechanism on the joint to restrict movement of the third leg after choosing a desired screen angle. However, Apple's superb track record should outweigh any reservations regarding durability or craftsmanship. Furthermore, the ability to adjust the screen angle while facing it is a praiseworthy function well worth this potential flaw.
Although admittedly a subjective opinion, the creative design of the display will inspire the user's own creativity and complements the functional design in a stunning unification of elements reminiscent of industrial design.
Once the display is connected and installed on a desk, the sheer size of the screen becomes increasingly evident. Despite this size, its streamlined design makes it unobtrusive on most tables and allows for desk space to be utilized for other endeavors.
The true brilliance of the display is revealed upon startup - with a resolution of 1920x1200 and 16.7 million colors. Coupled with a Dolby capable sound card and a surround sound speaker system, one can fully understand the choice of the title Cinema display.
However the advantages of the enormous size and 16:9 aspect ratio of the display are witnessed well beyond the initial WOW factor and are revealed when working with a variety of applications. Web browsing now allows for direct comparison of pages as two full-sized windows can be opened simultaneously and side-by-side. Students, writers, and others will appreciate the capability of having two Word docs open or a web browser and word doc open side-by-side. Designers, video editors, and 3d modelers will love the possibility to see and access all the available windows and toolbars in these complex applications simultaneously.
Combined with the overwhelming functionality of OSX, this display has truely revolutionized the way I perform design and video work and allows me to fully embed myself in the creative process by decreasing the number of intrusions to my train-of-thought that occur when searching for tools or finding an open window. For this reason alone, I would recommend this display to anyone who utilizes a computer for creative work.
Despite my apparent infatuation with Apple's 23" Cinema Display, I was somewhat disappointed to discover three dead or stuck pixels. Although I understand stuck pixels to be a problem inherent to the LCD technology used to manufacture flat-panel screens, I had hoped that Apple's reputation would increase my chances of getting a perfect screen. However, as I am told by AppleCare tech. support representatives I am to consider myself lucky with only one dead pixel as many users live with 10 or more. Apple states that they will review each display with stuck pixels on a case-by-case basis and replace only those which they deem worthy. However, when spending upwards of $2000 on a piece of hardware I prefer to rely on a policy more established rather than "the luck of the draw."
I quickly learned to live with the dead pixel by maintaining that it gives the display a unique character and have declared the benefits of the 23" Cinema Display to far outweigh the flaws. Although the cost of the display is intimidating, its unique potential to positively alter work patterns should justify this price for most users.
Recommended:
Yes
Amount Paid (US$): 1899 Operating System: Macintosh
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