Sager NP8660/8662 - Clevo M860TU Owners Lounge [Archive]

Elecman

12-07-2008, 02:38 PM

I may have a quality issue with the audio playback on my NP8660.

Loud events such as explosions saturate the amplifier and causes audio distortion. MP3 playback isn't much of a problem b/c generally speaking the recordings from disc are good.

I've fooled with every mixer control (realtek and windows) I can find and cannot reduce the audio enough to prevent overload distortion. It does not matter if I reduce in-game volume or master volume.

Games I played so far: Crysis, Team Fortress 2, Unreal Tournament 3; doesn' matter they all have the same effect. Loud sounds saturate the amplifier; likely at the preamp or DAC. I know this b/c as I said, all volume adjustments are <likely> after the preamp.

Has this come up, and is there a fix?

Thanks,
Josh

nimitz

12-08-2008, 05:16 AM

My np8660 is in Phase 2 now and I cant wait to get it. I'm trying to see what I'll need to have for the first install and I'm wondering if it'll come with all the latest drivers on the cd's other than the nvidia one or will I have to go around searching for all the drivers? Also what other good monitoring programs etc would you guys recommend? HWMonitor?

powerpack

12-08-2008, 05:53 AM

nimitz I would recommend keeping as is to start with. That way you can likely tell what the problems are.

Add ons like Notebook Hardware Control are not so bad. I guess I would say applications are fine. Do not change drivers to start with,

Zatara214

12-08-2008, 02:34 PM

I opted to get an X-Fi audio card with my NP8660. The laptop uses a generic onboard Realtek card, and so you're not going to get the crispness of the true audio... and yes you can even get some distortion with complicated or overlayed sounds, although they should be rare. Try updating the drivers and see if it helps, and if not you may want to get another card. There is no software fix to this that I know of, anyone have any input?

I may have a quality issue with the audio playback on my NP8660.

Loud events such as explosions saturate the amplifier and causes audio distortion. MP3 playback isn't much of a problem b/c generally speaking the recordings from disc are good.

I've fooled with every mixer control (realtek and windows) I can find and cannot reduce the audio enough to prevent overload distortion. It does not matter if I reduce in-game volume or master volume.

Games I played so far: Crysis, Team Fortress 2, Unreal Tournament 3; doesn' matter they all have the same effect. Loud sounds saturate the amplifier; likely at the preamp or DAC. I know this b/c as I said, all volume adjustments are <likely> after the preamp.

Has this come up, and is there a fix?

Thanks,
Josh

powerpack

12-08-2008, 02:53 PM

What? 10 character rule?

Elecman

12-08-2008, 07:32 PM

I'll continue to fiddle with the audio driver. And I'm glad you know what I'm talking about. It seems that at the digital-analog conversion level... punchy sounds will cause distortion. I really like this laptop and don't want to have to part with it. I am a stickler for audio quality.

Does your X-FI card have any distortion at all? WIth any games? What do you do for times that you want to use the HDMI audio? One of the uses I have for my laptop is a streaming device to watch on-demand content from Netflix on the TV.

I had a 4G iPod that did this too and it came down to a cost-cutting measure of having too little bypass capacitance at the power supply. As a surge of audio came in, such as a blast beat, or a bang (I listen to metal music exclusively), the iPod distorted constantly. (A personal note; the best audio players I've used are from Cowon iAudio)

Anyway I find this audio distortion issue a real drag. Not what I expect from a notebook costing > $1500. Any others here who know what I'm talking about, please chime in?

THanks and I hope you get back to me Zatara on your input about your X-FI card.

Elecman
I opted to get an X-Fi audio card with my NP8660. The laptop uses a generic onboard Realtek card, and so you're not going to get the crispness of the true audio... and yes you can even get some distortion with complicated or overlayed sounds, although they should be rare. Try updating the drivers and see if it helps, and if not you may want to get another card. There is no software fix to this that I know of, anyone have any input?

nimitz

12-21-2008, 12:32 AM

i just recieved my NP8660 at home and I'm in the process of installing Vista 64-bit on it. One thing that I have noticed is the extremely loud noise of the dvd player on this laptop. There seems to be a loud buzzing whenever the dvd is spinning, sort of like something isn't held in tightly enough and its shaking rapidly. I already checked to see if the dvd was seated in the tray all the way and thats fine but I wanted to see if anyone else was experiencing this problem and if this is normal.

sheaiiimef

12-23-2008, 08:59 AM

I have found that it depends on the disk that is in the drive. I think it may be a balance issue with the disk.

Kalvin

01-01-2009, 12:04 PM

Hey everyone, although I am really enjoying this laptop, there are several issues I have to work around.
I have 64 bit vista

- Although it offers great performance for its size, it will not play demanding games when I start it up. I always have to restart the laptop for the fan in the computer and the power brick to kick into high gear. After that though, its great (positive it has nothing to do with silent mode or performance settings in vista). I have a 9800m GT, and it seems like the card is not drawing enough power or something until I restart. I have no idea.

- Silent mode button gives no indication of working. No icon at the top left of the screen to indicate otherwise, no decrease in fan speed or performance.

- Wireless card is "iffy" on startup as well, the network icon in the toolbar, and my "network and sharing center", tells me I'm connected, but I can't access the internet. This happens about 3/4 times, has nothing to do with signal strength, I am right beside the router. I have an Intel(R) Wireless WiFi Link 5300. Turning the card on and off sometimes fixes the problem

- Intel Turbo Memory (2gb) simply doesn't work. It crashes somehow. I'm pretty sure many other people have had this problem.

- Speakers will emit a very high pitched whine at certain volume intervals, you can just turn the volume up slightly or down slightly from these intervals, but its weird never the less.

I have the most recent drivers for everything and am confident I maintain the computer well. I still am a big fan of this laptop, but the wireless card and gfx issues are the most annoying.

Any input?

dpower

01-27-2009, 05:10 AM

I've had my 8660 for two days. It seems like a solid system, but still loading software.
One issue is the Turbo Memory 2.0, I can't get it to enable the "ReadyBoost". The selection is grayed out and can't be selected. The memory console shows that it has 4 Gig, and has Ready Drive enabled.
Any ideas??

Dpower

potent

02-20-2009, 10:48 AM

Im so jealous, I want to join this club

:p:p:p:p

Halaster

04-08-2009, 08:54 PM

Really looking forward to joining this club also. :D
Ordered mine about 2 weeks ago with the new GTX 260 card.
Plan on tossing Windows 7 onto it and seeing how things go.

Did a custom graphics job on it also, and have thrown together the following for it:
http://upload.netheril.com/thumbs/large/448_uzfvb/keyboard-example.jpg (http://upload.netheril.com/view/full/448_uzfvb)
http://upload.netheril.com/thumbs/large/449_yxahi/Final-Cover-Example.jpg (http://upload.netheril.com/view/full/449_yxahi)

Once I get the actual laptop ill post what the final work looks like. :D

Osco

04-09-2009, 07:28 AM

Is this club for NP8660 owners only or can the NP8662 owners join as well?? ;)

Justin_W@XoticPC

04-09-2009, 11:10 AM

@Osco

You are more than welcome to join the club! I've also revised the title to include the 8662 owners :)

Osco

04-09-2009, 12:14 PM

Woohoo!! Thanks Justin!
I can't wait until I have some time, hopefully this weekend, to start playing around with my new 8662!

This is also my first laptop ever, so I have a bit of learning to do! Especially for optimizing XP and other programs to run as lean a possible. Got to figure out that touch pad too! Trying to figure out click and drags and right clicks with it! HA!

:p

elbig

04-10-2009, 05:51 PM

powerpack

04-10-2009, 06:02 PM

New to this forum. My son is entering college this fall and I just ordered him an NP8662 today as a graduation present (assuming senioritis doesn't get too severe that he doesn't graduate). I wanted to have time to play with it too, before he leaves this fall. Now it's hurry up and wait...

http://www.speedtest.net/rank/404938030.png[/url]Your son is a very lucky kid! I hope you both enjoy it, and I hope you end up letting him take it with him to school when the time comes.:D

elbig

04-10-2009, 06:18 PM

Very good point. Maybe I'll slip him my old ThinkPad 600E that I have stored in my graveyard of old computer equipment. Mobile Pentium II (366 MHz, 66 MHz FSB), 13.3" 1024x768, 64MB ram, 6.4GB HDD. It was well built in its day. He may see a slight difference in FPS playing Crysis (as if).

elbig

04-24-2009, 04:02 PM

Well, I am (not so) patiently waiting for the next 8662 shipment. I ordered on April 20. Sounds like it may be at least a week or more.

Patel

04-27-2009, 12:23 PM

Well, I am (not so) patiently waiting for the next 8662 shipment. I ordered on April 20. Sounds like it may be at least a week or more.

that makes two of us. i ordered on april 24

gltovar

04-29-2009, 11:13 PM

Well, I am (not so) patiently waiting for the next 8662 shipment. I ordered on April 20. Sounds like it may be at least a week or more.

Heh I ordered april 20 as well. I also order it to have a wrap, I've mocked up what it might look like:
http://www.xoticpcforums.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=72&stc=1&d=1241061040

potent

04-30-2009, 02:34 AM

HURRAY

I NOW BELONG TO THIS CLUB!!!!

:wink2::wink2::wink2::wink2:

elbig

04-30-2009, 11:10 AM

gltovar: Nice skin!
potent: Welcome to the "Waiting to get out of phase 1" club....

shimmyt

04-30-2009, 07:26 PM

Hey everybody! Another future member of the NP8662 club. Now in phase 1 :)

Patel

04-30-2009, 08:06 PM

im a little bummed, the eta said mid to late april, and i just received a email saying it will arrive on may 8th. after that they have to do customization and testing which would probably take another week, and then practically another week for shipping

:(

i cant wait until i get it, im so excited

elbig

05-01-2009, 06:05 AM

Patel: I ordered a few days before you and I have not received an updated ETA yet so be happy :).

cheapox

05-01-2009, 09:24 AM

I ordered mine on April 20th as well. I'm in the phase-1 club.

ShagZ

05-01-2009, 10:56 AM

I ordered mine on April 20th as well. I'm in the phase-1 club.

I ordered my NP8662 4/02, it was shipped today! Praise the Sager gods.

ShagZ

05-01-2009, 11:02 AM

Does anyone know if there will be any complications with the NP8662 and the OCZ Vertex SSD? Anyone hear of or have any issues with SSDs working in this model? I can't wait to post some benchmarks.

Stuckinabox

05-01-2009, 03:02 PM

Patel: I ordered a few days before you and I have not received an updated ETA yet so be happy :).

Seriously...I ordered on the 11th and I'm still in phase 1 too. I got this on the 17th:

"Sager is expecting two shipments of 8662’s and all orders are expected to start middle next week and complete approximately end of April."

At least I still have my games...;)

Halaster

05-01-2009, 06:41 PM

I ordered mine the end of march. :) It JUST arrived at the skinning place this week. I am not sure how long it will be from today, but my guess is at least another week.

InkBlot

05-02-2009, 04:08 PM

New guy, here. Just put in my order today! Now, the interminable waiting...

stormin

05-04-2009, 02:19 PM

I ordered my NP8662 4/02, it was shipped today! Praise the Sager gods.
I ordered my NP8662 4/01.

Still hasn't shipped. Didn't even go into Phase 2 until Friday (5/1/2009).

I got an email that day saying the expected it to ship today, but their last email was off by weeks so all I can do is hope.

EDIT: On the other hand, the fact that it arrived on Friday and they are trying to ship it on Monday makes me think someone is working all weekend. I appreciate the effort.

But I'd appreciate the finished laptop even more! ;-)

mrblister

05-04-2009, 07:29 PM

Ordered 4/18 here. Hopefully my machine will be in this upcoming shipment.

elbig

05-05-2009, 03:15 PM

Just received Phase 2 email - on the way to custom skinning. Progress at last! Yippee.

Lstormy10

05-07-2009, 08:18 PM

Just ordered my Sager NP8662. :D

elbig

05-08-2009, 06:06 AM

Just ordered my Sager NP8662. :D

Congrats. Hopefully your wait won't be long.

Ryvaeus

05-09-2009, 02:07 AM

I placed my order on May 6, paid for it on the 7th, and will wait for it until the end of days!

Or the end of May, whichever comes first. :D

ShagZ

05-09-2009, 08:13 PM

I was checking out CPU-Z and it said that my ddr3 ram was only clocked at 533mhz... According to the specifications listed on the website it says the ram was 1066mhz. Is that misrepresentation of the RAM or is that because you sum the 533mhz for each stick of ram, as in (533mhz + 533mhz=1066mhz).

powerpack

05-09-2009, 08:20 PM

Redangelman

05-10-2009, 06:46 PM

Stuckinabox

05-10-2009, 11:55 PM

They did receive a shipment, but I don't know if they can fill all current orders with the stock they have. I ordered on 4/11 and they started building mine on Friday, so I'd expect it to ship this week.

ShagZ

05-11-2009, 01:21 AM

DDR means 533x2=1066 that is where the number comes from it has nothing to do with the two sticks. One stick would be 533x2=1066.

I have PC6400 800Mhz CPU reports 400Mhz. It reports the core clocks.

Your RAM is what it says it is all is good. Enjoy your beast.

Thank you for the clarification. Beast is indeed true. I have recorded boot times on this rig of 23 seconds (timed from when the VGA wakes up). I installed a slip streamed xp in 10 minutes from USB. GPU temp idles at 41C. I have a Vertex SSD and its banging out installes in a jiff. I couldnt be happier. No problems thus far with the NP8662. Running 64-bit Vista... Drivers are all 100%, I tried out windows 7 RC... had a lil trouble with the vidcard drivers, but all is well now.

I would love to share some benchmarks with you guys... If only I knew what you guys wanted to know! : )

Justin@XoticPC

05-11-2009, 08:00 AM

So I ordered on April 28 and I am still apparently waiting for their "Item Arrival." I thought they were getting a new shipment in the "first week of May" but I guess it didn't happen? How long can I expect it to be until I move to phase 2? I'm super excited to be getting this laptop but the wait is killing me, I'm a high school senior graduating in 4 weeks I have no patience left! =P
I know it has to be one of the best laptops though considering its obvious popularity, no matter what this wait will be worth it =]

The shipment did arrive. However all orders can not be built on the same day. Orders are built in the order they were received. Our general lead time is 3-7 business days for production time from the date they were received (May 8th). We are working through orders as fast as we can. :smile2:

shimmyt

05-11-2009, 08:42 AM

The shipment did arrive. However all orders can not be built on the same day. Orders are built in the order they were received. Our general lead time is 3-7 business days for production time from the date they were received (May 8th). We are working through orders as fast as we can. :smile2:

Wait you mean you can't whip up every single order in 10 minutes (which is still to long), and have them shipped same day to us??? LOL I think 99% of us are pretty patient, I'd rather wait and have a laptop that was carefully put together as opposed to something thrown together and shipped out as fast as possible (DELL). Keep up the good work Justin!

InkBlot

05-11-2009, 09:51 AM

Wait you mean you can't whip up every single order in 10 minutes (which is still to long), and have them shipped same day to us??? LOL I think 99% of us are pretty patient, I'd rather wait and have a laptop that was carefully put together as opposed to something thrown together and shipped out as fast as possible (DELL). Keep up the good work Justin!

Well, if you want to buy off the rack, there's always the local Buy More (http://www.insidebuymore.com/).
:wink2:

shimmyt

05-11-2009, 11:47 AM

Well, if you want to buy off the rack, there's always the local Buy More (http://www.insidebuymore.com/).
:wink2:

LMAO! Good call on that one. I've gotta find where my local Buy More is.

Patel

05-11-2009, 10:24 PM

<rant>

I ordered when the ETA was mid to late april having a mindset I would get it by the first week of may. ive been without a computer since, besides my school and occassionally at work if my managers not around..

the eta was changed to first week of may, and its already going to be may 12 and im not even in phase 2 yet. :(

I called justin like a week and a half ago and he said it would arrive that night, or the next. 3 days ago i got a email saying the shipment arrived at the facility but im still in phase 1

</rant>

But on the other hand, the thing keeping my cool is knowing the laptop isnt going to be thrown together, and will be handled with care like what shimmyt said.

elbig

05-12-2009, 05:59 AM

I just went to Phase 4 - the unit is shipping! I never was notified about phase 3 but I am not complaining. I assume their elves are busy in the workshop.

potent

05-12-2009, 07:54 AM

mrblister

05-12-2009, 01:05 PM

I'm right there with you Patel. It's just frustrating to expect one thing, then have it put back, then put back some more. Then to be told that it is going out on a certain day and still be waiting. I'd wager that it's almost better if thy DONT give an ETA or timelines, especially if they dont know that they can make them. Just frustrates the customer.

mrblister

05-12-2009, 01:09 PM

you guys have to keep in mind that there was an exceptional amount of orders they had to meet, if it does make you feel better, mine went from Phase 1 ->Phase 2 -> Phase 1 -> Phase 4

Its worth it lads, no worries ;)

Understood. However when I went to order the machine almost a month ago, if they had said that it would take this long then I wouldnt have placed my order. I day trade for a living and I'm getting ready to go out of the country for a couple of weeks down to Mexico. I NEED a laptop to take with me and at this point I've been without one for some time. While I'm at home thats ok, I have my desktop, but it looks like I'll have to go down to best buy and pick up a cheap machine so that I have something to trade with while I'm gone. That'll bring the cost of this laptop up even higher.

Oh well. Whats done is done.

Halaster

05-12-2009, 03:59 PM

you guys have to keep in mind that there was an exceptional amount of orders they had to meet, if it does make you feel better, mine went from Phase 1 ->Phase 2 -> Phase 1 -> Phase 4

Its worth it lads, no worries ;)

Ayep, same here.
March 31st - Phase 1
April 1st - Phase 2
April 3rd - Phase 1
April 20th - Phase 2
April 23rd - Shipped to Skinning
No word till May 11th - Phase 4

Way way longer than I was expecting, but hopefully worth it.

powerpack

05-12-2009, 09:23 PM

Alright fellas everyone needs to understand what the first letter in ETA stands for. That's right you are a quick bunch. Estimated. And guess what? They were wrong. And guess what likely had more to do with their suppliers than failures on Xotic's part.

I know you guys are just venting and I don't want to come across as some unsympathetic hard a## but busting Justin's chops is a fine line between venting and just not being fair.

I doubt Xotic is far behind anyone else. And just a pointer if Xotic had not let you know what was coming out would you of bought a different model and kicked yourself later for missing out? Do you want Xotic to have adequate inventory on hand prior to announcement of product? If so expect greater cost. I mean just common sense.

Hang in there when it does happen you will all forget this trust me. You will be nothing but happy little bada## notebook owners that have the best. So far no one is talking going to DeLL? I think obvious why.

Hang in there. Just want to prevent you guys from saying stuff you have to apologize for after you get the beasts.:D;):)

Justin_W@XoticPC

05-12-2009, 10:57 PM

I just went to Phase 4 - the unit is shipping! I never was notified about phase 3 but I am not complaining. I assume their elves are busy in the workshop.

Phase #3 (Sent to Custom Painting / Skinning Department)

If you didn't purchase a custom skin, then you would just skip over the 3rd phase. :)

elbig

05-13-2009, 10:00 AM

Phase #3 (Sent to Custom Painting / Skinning Department)

If you didn't purchase a custom skin, then you would just skip over the 3rd phase. :)

Actually I did get custom skinning (or at least I should have since I ordered it). I am not really complaining so much as simply telling my timeline. I am completely sympathetic with the wait. This is a new unit and I understand that the entire supply/manufacturing chain needs to ramp up. Plus I would rather have a well built, well tested unit rather than a rushed one that may have QA problems. It is scheduled to arrive tomorrow!

cheapox

05-13-2009, 12:07 PM

I went straight from phase 1 to phase 4. I was pleasantly surprised when I checked my email, to say the least. I didn't choose a custom skin.

I ordered on april 20th if anyone is wondering.

shimmyt

05-13-2009, 01:04 PM

Well I'm on phase 2 now so looks like they have caught up hopefully to the end of April. Happy days my friends happy days indeed.

Halaster

05-13-2009, 01:27 PM

Actually I did get custom skinning (or at least I should have since I ordered it). I am not really complaining so much as simply telling my timeline. I am completely sympathetic with the wait. This is a new unit and I understand that the entire supply/manufacturing chain needs to ramp up. Plus I would rather have a well built, well tested unit rather than a rushed one that may have QA problems. It is scheduled to arrive tomorrow!

Ayep, same here. Not really complaining, just stating it as it was. :)

XoticPC was prompt with keeping me updated with status changes and so on, and apologized each time it was delayed. The skinning place though did not give any updates or state when the process had started or anything, and I had to contact XoticPC to get status on my unit after waiting over 2 weeks. Beyond that, even with the delays, the communication has been very very good.

InkBlot

05-14-2009, 04:15 PM

Still hanging in there, but I'll admit - every time I get a new e-mail message I get jumpy hoping it's a status update. It's funny, whenever I buy something as big as this, I'll spend days or weeks doing my research, reading reviews, and agonizing over the decision. The more money is involved, the harder it is for me to make up my mind. Then when I do, when I finally hit "buy!", I can't wait for it to get here. I'm like a little kid..

Saint00003

05-14-2009, 04:44 PM

elbig

05-14-2009, 05:58 PM

Mine arrived today. I am very impressed. Still loading stuff on it. No chance to run any tests yet. Build quality seems top notch.

Halaster

05-14-2009, 08:06 PM

Mine arrived today. I am very impressed. Still loading stuff on it. No chance to run any tests yet. Build quality seems top notch.

Post some pictures of your custom skinning job :D.

Would be nice to have a a larger pool of actual shots of custom work to look at, beyond the stock images on the customization page.

Ryvaeus

05-14-2009, 08:34 PM

Mine arrived today. I am very impressed. Still loading stuff on it. No chance to run any tests yet. Build quality seems top notch.

When did you order yours? :)

EDIT: Nevermind, April 20. :D

BKR2879

05-14-2009, 10:12 PM

Post some pictures of your custom skinning job :D.

Would be nice to have a a larger pool of actual shots of custom work to look at, beyond the stock images on the customization page.

Agreed!

Especially for those of us still trying to pick a final image and go with it.

Once I decide on that my order is getting placed that instant. :)

shimmyt

05-15-2009, 09:51 AM

Well I'm on step 4 now :) Tracking says I should have it by Wed!

elbig

05-15-2009, 09:56 AM

I got mine yesterday and lovin' it! Well worth the wait.

ShagZ

05-15-2009, 12:51 PM

Question for the TECHPERTS... Is the keyboard on th NP8662 limited to three keystrokes at a time? Is the keyboard a n-key keyboard? I am having a hard time with bf2 when I change cameras... For example, i am pressing a to roll, w to pitch down, shift to thrust, and c to change cameras. When I do this, camera angles do NOT change, i am thinking this is because there is a limit to the number of simultaneous key strokes. Please inform.

powerpack

05-16-2009, 12:01 AM

I got mine yesterday and lovin' it! Well worth the wait.Well give the rest of us what CPU and 3DMark06 score?;):)

Patel

05-16-2009, 06:45 PM

my order was shipped and is scheduled to arrive Monday. hella excited

Halaster

05-16-2009, 09:04 PM

Still waiting for mine. UPS screwed me over. Was out to be delivered on Friday so I actually took the day off work to make sure I could sign for it. UPS guy drove right by my house and did not stop. Status was updated at 11PM at night to rescheduled to Monday.

At this point I have no idea when I will be able to get it, since it requires a signature, I cant take another day off work, and no one will ever be home to sign for it, and my work hours are the only hours they deliver, and the only hours the UPS stores are open, heh. Guess I will figure something out next week I hope.

BKR2879

05-16-2009, 09:47 PM

Might want to call UPS with the tracking number and see if they'll do one of two things for you.

1) Deliver it to your local post office branch for you to sign for and pick up there.

2) Change the delivery address to your work address.

I've done #1 before and I know someone who's done #2, but no guarantee the agent you talk to will want to go out of his way to help.

Worth a shot though.

Halaster

05-18-2009, 02:13 PM

BKR2879

05-18-2009, 03:17 PM

UPS told me I need to contact the shipper, and get an investigation started since a delivery attempt was never made. He said the page shows that it is rescheduled to 5-18, but that an investigation needs to be done because it still says out for delivery 5-15, and that no attempt was made to deliver it.

Crossing my fingers, eyes and toes for you.

I hate the feeling of being helpless when waiting for delivery of something expensive and hi tech.

Waiting on my 40" HDTV was a nightmare.

Hopefully UPS in your area is better than it is in mine. Wishing you the best of luck!

Halaster

05-18-2009, 06:53 PM

Crossing my fingers, eyes and toes for you.

I hate the feeling of being helpless when waiting for delivery of something expensive and hi tech.

Waiting on my 40" HDTV was a nightmare.

Hopefully UPS in your area is better than it is in mine. Wishing you the best of luck!

From what it looks like, they somehow lost it while it was "OUT FOR DELIVERY".

They are in the process of searching for it right now, so hopefully I will get lucky and they will find it. I really do not want to wait another month or more for another laptop to be built, and go through the entire skinning and shipment process again.

Guess all I can do is keep waiting.

Patel

05-18-2009, 07:08 PM

Halaster

05-18-2009, 07:21 PM

I got mine today. Im using it right now. I finished installing the operating system and all the drivers.

I have one question though, I noticed there is no 1080 on the video settings.

Is this computer able to view 1080p HD files?

Yes, but it will not be viewing them at their native resolution.

The only way to view 1080p video files at 1080p would have been by getting the upgraded Matte screen which was higher resolution. So for example if you connect the laptop to a TV that supports 1080p with the HDMI cable it should be able to play 1080p videos without a problem.

Patel

05-18-2009, 08:10 PM

wow.. i just tried playing a 1080p video and it wont play

BKR2879

05-18-2009, 08:13 PM

It should still play, it will just scale to fit the screen.

It will play 1080p fine on an HDTV that is 1080p capable.

What are you trying to play and using what software?

Halaster

05-18-2009, 08:14 PM

wow.. i just tried playing a 1080p video and it wont play

the computer is all good, but im very upset that it wont play 1080p

i think xoticpc should not advertise it as full 1080p if it wont really play on the laptop. or at least make it clearer that you can only play 1080p on the tv and not the laptop itself

bummed.. i was ready to watch some HD movies on my laptop too..

Heya Patel, can you explain exactly what happens when you try to play it.
What do you mean it wont play, and are you sure you have the necessary codecs and such?

The laptop should not be a limiting factor at all for your playback of 1080p content. Your software is your limiting factor. Download VLC media player and I would bet that your video plays without a hitch.

BKR2879

05-18-2009, 08:15 PM

Sorry there Hal, I tripped over you LOL. ;)

Patel

05-18-2009, 08:20 PM

im using vlc media player to try and play a hd 1080p sample file.

it comes up all choppy. maybe its the codecs?

BKR2879

05-18-2009, 08:28 PM

Which OS are you running?

I'd guess either codec or perhaps video drivers.

Normally I load up the K-lite codec set on a new install, and that covers pretty much all the standard file formats you'll run into.

Did you install the newest video drivers from the nVidia driver page for your OS?

There is no reason at all video playback should be choppy at all on that sort of hardware.

The other thing I can think of is the file has DRM on it. I've seen files copied from DVD and BluRay onto a HD without stripping the protection be choppy like that.

Halaster

05-18-2009, 08:32 PM

If you have having stuttering issues you should use a CUDA enabled player, so that it can offload the work onto your GPU.

Use Media Player Classic Home Cinema. (http://sourceforge.net/project/showfiles.php?group_id=170561)
How to configure it. (http://www.anandtech.com/video/showdoc.aspx?i=3562&p=3)

Beyond that if you are still having problems not sure what to tell you. The specifications on this laptop should be fine at handling 1080p video unless the source content is using some odd CPU intensive codec or something odd.

BKR2879

05-18-2009, 08:33 PM

If you have having stuttering issues you should use a CUDA enabled player, so that it can offload the work onto your GPU.

Use Media Player Classic Home Cinema. (http://sourceforge.net/project/showfiles.php?group_id=170561)
How to configure it. (http://www.anandtech.com/video/showdoc.aspx?i=3562&p=3)

K-lite installs a copy of the old classic Windows player, but that one you linked looks even better.

Gonna bookmark that for my own use, thanks!

Patel

05-18-2009, 08:37 PM

i appreciate all the help :)

Halaster

05-18-2009, 08:58 PM

Looks like UPS found the laptop and attempted to deliver it, though no one there to sign.
Whew, that is a relief. Now to just figure out how to receive it and I should be good to go.

Much more relieving to have a No one to sign exception over a lost package exception.

BKR2879

05-18-2009, 10:04 PM

Glad to hear it!

Granted, I'd still be going nuts knowing my new toy was in limbo in a UPS warehouse.

At least it's better than "lost" though, you're right there.

triptogn

05-19-2009, 01:41 PM

I put in my order yesterday, and I'm in phase 2 now. So far the service has been very good. I like the fact that they called me to let me know it was being built.

BKR2879

05-19-2009, 03:21 PM

I'd love to have mine in time for the long weekend, but I don't think they'll have it shipped out by Thursday.

Even if by some miracle they did, UPS isn't noted for actually knocking on your door when they need a signature, they leave a sticker and make you call them to schedule it.

strato_220

05-19-2009, 03:27 PM

Hey I'm new here and I'm really thinking about buying the np8662. I was wondering about the screen though, does it look as nice as the vaio fw screens? I would be going with the glossy; I hear from some places that most of the screens come from the same manufacturer, so I wasn't sure. Also, even though the glossy screen isn't full 1080p, can I still use the hdmi to output 1080p to a tv? Lastly, how do you guys like the keyboards? I sort of like the spaced out sony ones, but if the keyboard is better or as good as a dell xps m1210 I'll be happy : )

BKR2879

05-19-2009, 04:14 PM

I'll answer what I can......;)

You can play 1080i/p output on the screen and it will scale to fit, or you can output 1080i/p to a HDTV with an HDMI cable.

It is true that there are only a few companies that make LCD panels, and I've yet to see the panel on the 8662 but it would seem to be a good one based on some other posts here. (This is something I'm also concerned about, so eager to see it for myself).

Personally I think you're better off with the 1680x1050 screen as it's less taxing on gaming performance and still plenty high enough.

Hopefully someone else can comment on the keyboard and or screen quality for you. :)

Halaster

05-19-2009, 05:00 PM

BKR2879

05-19-2009, 05:48 PM

I will let you know about the keyboard and screen later tonight when I go pick mine up from UPS at 8:30.

If I do not head to sleep first, a bit sick right now, heh, was sent home from work because of it.

Here's hoping you feel better.

If it were me, I'd be up half the night playing with it, no matter how sick I felt.

Halaster

05-20-2009, 12:07 AM

Well, got it in and the inside of the laptop looks fantastic, with the custom skin being positioned perfectly but it appears that while skinning the outside someone messed up.

There is a permenant "residue" on both the bottom left side of the cover, as well as running all the way up the right side over all my graphics, that is extremely visible the second any light touches it. Worse than fingerprints all over the cover. :( So it looks like I am going to be out a needed laptop for another month probably while I get this redone.

http://upload.netheril.com/pthumbs/large/98/residue.jpg

All of the areas that do not have the residue look fantastic, looks like a paint job and not a skinning job.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BgjJd-43KjY

On further checking it also appears that there are small razor cuts on the trackpad itself where the skin was cut. Do not mean to be anal, but for an extra almost $200 the laptop should arrive in prestine condition in edition to having the custom skinning job. :)

Halaster

05-20-2009, 12:40 AM

Here is a picture of what the custom skinning looks like. :) When you cant see the residue it looks pretty good.
Inside:
http://upload.netheril.com/pfiles/100/inside_custom.jpg

BKR2879

05-20-2009, 07:27 AM

Ouch about the skin. :( Hopefully they can take care of it for you quickly so you're not without it again for a while.

I still wish I could have gotten mine skinned, but oh well, it's a minor thing I guess.

So, here are the expected barrage of questions..... ;)

How do you like the screen? Keyboard? Overall size/weight?

Xixecel

05-20-2009, 10:40 AM

sweet machine.. see if they can fix your camera to when they re-skin your laptop hehehe.

-Xixecel

elbig

05-20-2009, 03:45 PM

No problems with the glossy WSXGA+ screen at all. Plenty bright (only used it indoors). Keyboard is a pleasure to use. Feels solid and has good tactile feel. The unit is a good size and doesn't weigh too much. Overall, very pleased with it....

BKR2879

05-20-2009, 06:38 PM

Hey I got a new update! Unfortunately its a bad one.

Figures the P9600 is out of stock with no ETA. :(

So down to a P8700 for now until I can lay hands on a P9600 later on and I'll pop it in myself. Want to avoid the 35W cpu's for heat/power concerns.

Guess I won't be seeing my new baby until next week now for sure.

Lstormy10

05-20-2009, 06:54 PM

Hey I got a new update! Unfortunately its a bad one.

Figures the P9600 is out of stock with no ETA. :(

Phew. I am lucky I ordered when I did.

BKR2879

05-20-2009, 06:59 PM

I'm gonna shop around online on my own in the meantime. I can always swap it out once it's here.

Won't be hard to do, and I've got some fresh Artic Silver here from a recent PC build for a friend.

*heads for online shopping*

BKR2879

05-20-2009, 08:01 PM

Yeah well so much for that.

People are getting over $400 for one of those cpu's and I can't justify that much over what it's costing already.

Sigh, my mood just tanked pretty hard. Should have known better than to get my hopes up. :(

shimmyt

05-20-2009, 11:03 PM

Well I finally got my lappy :) So far so good, installed Windows 7, and the new nvidia drivers now I'm just getting my base stuff done. So far very happy!

strato_220

05-20-2009, 11:35 PM

Nice thanks for the info on the screen and keyboard. I'm almost certain I'm going with the np8662, it's amazing.

Lstormy10

05-22-2009, 04:35 PM

Got my laptop today and I love it. Haven't had any problems and I am currently installing all of my programs/games.

BKR2879

05-22-2009, 04:38 PM

Grats!

Mine is gonna be a long time in coming now that the cpu's are backordered for a while.

So much for "3-7 business days" on the 8662.

Oh well, nothing to do but wait it out and hope its worth it when it gets here.

DrewB

05-22-2009, 08:30 PM

Why don't you just wipe down the residue with 'googone' (or something like that..).

You may find some at your local grocery store, just check supported surfaces before you apply it, although I think a lot of it is multi/any surface.

gltovar

05-22-2009, 09:58 PM

heh, the skinning adding 3-7 days is more of the latter, still waiting for it to finish, as it was shipped to be skinned on the 14th... I hope it comes some time next week.

Redangelman

05-22-2009, 11:19 PM

heh, the skinning adding 3-7 days is more of the latter, still waiting for it to finish, as it was shipped to be skinned on the 14th... I hope it comes some time next week.

Were you alerted when the skinning was finished or are you just assuming it was done after 7 days? I'm currently in phase 3 and I'm praying mine arrives early next week. I was alerted on the 15th that mine would be shipped to be skinned at the beginning of next week (apparently it takes 2-3 days to put it in a box and throw peanuts in it.)

elbig

05-23-2009, 10:23 AM

I received mine a few weeks ago. You gonna love it. I was informed that it was on the way to skinning but the next alert was that it had shipped.

Justin@XoticPC

05-23-2009, 12:47 PM

elbig which design did you have on your machine with the custom skinning?

Ryvaeus

05-23-2009, 05:57 PM

DrewB

05-23-2009, 07:34 PM

Woohoo, mine's shipping now! :)

Only problem is that the estimated shipping date is May 29. That's the same day I'll be leaving the US to go back to the Philippines. :(

Here's to hoping those truckers MOVE IT! :D

Why don't you get in your car and meet them half way?

With a gang of highly trained carjackers?

(kidding :D)

Ryvaeus

05-23-2009, 07:47 PM

Why don't you get in your car and meet them half way?

With a gang of highly trained carjackers?

(kidding :D)
I couldn't pay them, though. They'd probably take my laptop! :mad:

I'm considering calling up UPS and asking if they can "upgrade" my shipping option from Ground to Orange or Blue. Do you guys think they'll do that?

DrewB

05-23-2009, 07:52 PM

I couldn't pay them, though. They'd probably take my laptop! :mad:

I'm considering calling up UPS and asking if they can "upgrade" my shipping option from Ground to Orange or Blue. Do you guys think they'll do that?

I'm not too sure, but if you wanted to try, I'd call them asap (now!!!).

Ryvaeus

05-23-2009, 07:55 PM

I'm not too sure, but if you wanted to try, I'd call them asap (now!!!).
Agh. They're closed right now, and will open only on Monday. :/

DrewB

05-23-2009, 08:11 PM

Agh. They're closed right now, and will open only on Monday. :/

Tough break man, let's hope for the best!

gltovar

05-24-2009, 04:25 AM

Were you alerted when the skinning was finished or are you just assuming it was done after 7 days? I'm currently in phase 3 and I'm praying mine arrives early next week. I was alerted on the 15th that mine would be shipped to be skinned at the beginning of next week (apparently it takes 2-3 days to put it in a box and throw peanuts in it.)

i'm not even on phase three, but they are done with phase 2... said it would become phase 3 when the skinning process has started. hopefully its just then busy to update the status that moment... but maybe there's a huge skinning queue = P

If you've got a phase 3 notification you're prolly farther than me =D

BKR2879

05-25-2009, 11:17 AM

If you've got a phase 3 notification you're prolly farther than me =D

How about those of us that were on "Phase 2" that got changed to "Order Pending" because they ran out of CPU's??? :D

Ryvaeus

05-26-2009, 02:57 AM

Tough break man, let's hope for the best!

They can't upgrade my shipment method. I'm getting worried! :(

Justin@XoticPC

05-26-2009, 07:59 AM

I couldn't pay them, though. They'd probably take my laptop! :mad:

I'm considering calling up UPS and asking if they can "upgrade" my shipping option from Ground to Orange or Blue. Do you guys think they'll do that?

Unfortunately you can not change shipping methods once it is in transit. :(

For those that are waiting on the CPU's in the end you will get a faster CPU for the same price you paid. :)

markjsc

05-26-2009, 09:08 AM

For those that are waiting on the CPU's in the end you will get a faster CPU for the same price you paid. :)

That sounds interesting in a VERY good way... Can you share any more details, Justin? (I'm one of those waiting for a CPU.)

BKR2879

05-26-2009, 12:14 PM

For those that are waiting on the CPU's in the end you will get a faster CPU for the same price you paid. :)

Yer kidding right??

Yer not kidding?? WOOT!! :notworthy

Tahnok007

05-26-2009, 02:26 PM

maybe i shoulda put one of those cpu's and gotten a better deal :P oh well already ordered.

1x Sager NP8662 (Built on Clevo M860TU)

- Display: 15.4" WSXGA+ "Glare Type" Super
- Arctic Silver: Arctic Silver 5 Thermal Compound
- Dead Pixel Policy: Standard Dead Pixel Policy
- Processor: ~Intel® T9800 45nm "Montevina" C
- Video Card: nVidia GeForce GTX 260M 1,024MB
- External Monitor Video Adapter: No Video Adapter
- Ram: ~ 4,096MB DDR3 1066MHz Dual Chan
- Intel® Robson Turbo Memory: 4GB Intel® Robson Turbo Memory I
- Exterior Finish: Standard Finish
- Optical Drive: ~Combo 8x8x6x4x Dual Layer DVD +
- Primary Hard Drive: ~ 320GB 7200RPM (Serial-ATA II 3
- External Hard Drive (Back Up): No Back Up Hard Drive
- Floppy Drive: No Floppy Drive
- Memory Card Reader: Internal 7-in-1 Card Reader (MS/
- Bluetooth: Internal Bluetooth + EDR
- Wireless Network: Built-in Intel® PRO/Wireless 530
- Wireless Network Accessories: No Network Accessory
- Camera: Built in 2.0 Megapixel Camera
- TV Tuner: No TV Tuner
- Sound Card: Sound Blaster Compatible 3D Audi
- Case: Basic Black Business Case - Incl
- Battery: Smart Li-ion Battery (8-Cell)
- Car Adapter: No Car Adapter
- Spare AC Adapter: None Standard*
- Port Replicator / Dock / Adapter: No Dock/Hub/Adapter
- Fingerprint Reader: Integrated Fingerprint Reader
- Mouse / Keyboard Accessories: No External Keyboard or Mouse
- Notebook Cooler: No Notebook Cooler
- Operating System: ~Windows Vista Home Premium 64-B
- Microsoft Office Software: No Office Software
- Software Bundle (Not Installed): No Software Bundle
- Warranty: 3 Year Labor* 1 Year Parts Warracan't wait! :3

InkBlot

05-26-2009, 03:43 PM

triptogn

05-26-2009, 06:04 PM

That sounds interesting in a VERY good way... Can you share any more details, Justin? (I'm one of those waiting for a CPU.)

Since I'm also one of these people on hold, I would be interested to hear what is in store for us as well =)

gltovar

05-26-2009, 06:07 PM

more than likely the p9600 is getting upgraded to the p9700 = D

http://techiton.blogspot.com/2009/02/intel-mobile-cpu-t9900-p9700-p8800-due.html

InkBlot

05-26-2009, 06:52 PM

I've been in Phase 2 since last Monday, and I asked for the P9600. Never got an e-mail about it being out of stock, so don't know if I'm on the wait list, or in build state, or even out getting skinned. Still chewing my knuckles. :)

I think the customer service people spot me everytime I post here. I just got bumped back to phase 1, with the "your CPU is backordered" message. :eeek2:

So, yes, I too would like to know what Justin's message about CPUs means and what the upgrade options are. My e-mail says "the P8700, T9550, P9600, & T9800 CPU's are backordered from Intel"...that doesn't leave a lot left. :wideeyed:

BKR2879

05-26-2009, 08:23 PM

I've been stuck on "Order Pending " since I first got the notice about the CPU being out of stock last week.

Sync

05-26-2009, 10:54 PM

Mine was shipped early Friday morning, and UPS hasn't updated the status since then, so I'm guessing it's been on a truck from California all weekend. Can't wait until it gets delivered Thursday though - I'll try to post pics and benchmarks once I get it set up.

Lstormy10

05-27-2009, 12:14 AM

So, yes, I too would like to know what Justin's message about CPUs means and what the upgrade options are. My e-mail says "the P8700, T9550, P9600, & T9800 CPU's are backordered from Intel"...that doesn't leave a lot left. :wideeyed:

That's because Intel is going to be releasing a refresh of those processors such as the P8800 replacing the P8700 and the P9700 replacing the P9600.

markjsc

05-27-2009, 08:34 AM

That's because Intel is going to be releasing a refresh of those processors such as the P8800 replacing the P8700 and the P9700 replacing the P9600.

That's excellent - I'll have to read up on the P9700 specs (I ordered a P9600). Sounds like a winner!

BKR2879

05-27-2009, 08:59 AM

From "Tech-it-on"

Three new mobile processors from Intel are are due to launch around the middle of 2009. The new chips are based on Intel's 45 nanometer Centrino2 platform.

The fastest of the lot is the Core2Duo T9900 with a clock frequency of 3.06 GigaHertz and contains 6 MegaBytes of cache.

The Core2Duo P9700 comes with a clock frequency of 2.8 GigaHertz and the same 6 MegaBytes of cache but has a lower TDP (Thermal Design Power).

And finally the P8800 which is the slowest and cheapest of this lot has a clock frequency of 2.66 GigaHertz and comes with 3 MegaBytes of cache.
All the processors have a bus speed of 1066 MegaHertz.

Earlier this year Intel had launched their line of mobile processors including Q9100, Q9000, T9800, P9600, T9550 (http://techiton.blogspot.com/2008/09/intel-mobile-cpu-q9000-t9800-p9600.html) and this time they go a step faster.

Core2Duo T9900 Specifications:
Speed: 3.06 GHz
Cores: 2
Cache Size: 6 MB
Bus Speed: 1066 MHz
Power TDP: 35 W

Core2Duo P9700 Specifications:
Speed: 2.80 GHz
Cores: 2
Cache Size: 6 MB
Bus Speed: 1066 MHz
Power TDP: 25 W

Core2Duo P8800 Specifications:
Speed: 2.66 GHz
Cores: 2
Cache Size: 3 MB
Bus Speed: 1066 MHz
Power TDP: 25 W

InkBlot

05-28-2009, 07:16 PM

I got emails tonight, my laptop shipped! Both a status update from Xotic and a tracking number from UPS.

The mystery now: what CPU did I get? I got the backordered CPU notice on Tuesday. So, did they come in early? Or did they find an old CPU just for me?

I'll know on Monday!

triptogn

05-28-2009, 07:55 PM

BKR2879

05-28-2009, 10:09 PM

You ordered almost 2 weeks before I did, so not sure what you'd get for a CPU.

Was that the specific thing holding up your order?

I'm not expecting to see mine for at least another 2 weeks unfortunately, and I pray my old laptop holds out that long. I've got a DELL Vostro A90 coming in next week to use in the meantime if need be and as a general backup, but the small screen isn't going to be great for normal use.

Be sure to write once you get it to let us all know how it is. My big concerns are overall build quality, screen quality and how hot it tends to run.

Grats on your new tech toy! :)

InkBlot

05-28-2009, 11:10 PM

You ordered almost 2 weeks before I did, so not sure what you'd get for a CPU.

Was that the specific thing holding up your order?

Well, not long after my post, the psychic customer service dept had an answer in my inbox. Turns out mine was put together and off to the skinning shop before the CPU shortage, so my e-mail about the CPU backorder was a goof.

On the good side, means, I am getting it in a few days. Downside, I'm not getting the free upgrade. Ah well, I look at that as a prize to those who must keep waiting.

I'll have more details and pics when it gets here. :yes:

InkBlot

05-28-2009, 11:50 PM

Plus, that last reply from Customer Service (from a live person, and not automated) was stamped 7:02pm.

Go home! We'll still be here in the morning...

Dedicated and committed are only synonyms until committed becomes a verb.

:notworthy

Ryvaeus

05-29-2009, 01:41 AM

Xixecel

05-29-2009, 01:12 PM

According to UPS tracking, my laptop is in Vernon, CA right now... I think a little more than 20 miles away from where I'm staying in Reseda! o: It should get here by tomorrow... which is good, because the day after I'm leaving the US for studies. :D

I hate UPS they dont update the tracking info worth crap, i see it leave an then they update as soon as its in my hands.. they are retarded i swear!

-Xixecel

Sync

05-29-2009, 04:09 PM

I hate UPS they dont update the tracking info worth crap, i see it leave an then they update as soon as its in my hands.. they are retarded i swear!

-Xixecel
I know, mine wasn't updated from the time it left Baldwin Park, CA on Friday morning at 1AM until Wednesday morning when it go to Laurel, MD. It made the wait even more painful than it should have been. =p

Anyway, I got my laptop yesterday and I absolutely love it. I blew through the Crysis demo at native resolution with everything set to High (no AA). Ran the benchmarking tool with those settings and got an average of 24.575 FPS in DX10 mode and 25.325 in DX9 mode, both 64-bit. 3DMark06 score was 9702 without any tweaking, on the latest nVidia drivers for Win7.

Overall I couldn't be happier with this laptop. My only complaint is that the touchpad absolutely sucks - the buttons are really stiff, the scrolling gets wonky sometimes, and I haven't figured out how to make it so that pressing both buttons = middle mouse button click (for opening a link in new tabs and such in Firefox). But that's a small complaint compared to the great things about this laptop.

It's also a lot smaller and lighter than I was expecting - I was prepared for some hulking behemoth of a laptop that required a tractor trailer to haul around, but it's much lighter than I thought, and it doesn't even seem like the 7-something pounds that the spec sheet lists.

If there's anything anyone else wants to know or any benchmarks or anything like that you'd like me to run, I'll be happy to do my best to answer your questions. :)

BKR2879

05-29-2009, 04:38 PM

How do the speakers sound?

I know they are laptop speakers, which suck in general, but there are varying levels of suckness. Just how bad is bad are they? ;)

Screen bright, sharp and clear? Good contrast?

Sync

05-29-2009, 04:51 PM

The speakers are decent quality-wise, but like you said laptop speakers suck in general. I do notice a bit of vibration when I turn the volume up. I use earphones when I listen to or watch anything anyway, so it's not a big deal to me.

I really do wish there was a way to see your volume level (and screen brightness level) without going to the icon in the taskbar, but that's no big deal. And it might just be because I'm using Windows 7 - planning on installing Vista next week, although I really like Win7 and plan to upgrade when it's released, I'm still not really comfortable with using beta software in a live environment. Haven't experienced any major issues, just would rather use a stable OS.

And the screen is phenomenal. Really sharp, bright and vivid, and not a dead/stuck pixel in sight. *crosses fingers*

BKR2879

05-29-2009, 04:56 PM

Glad to hear its as good as I'd hoped. :)

I paid the extra for the "30 Day 0 Dead Pixel" option, for my own personal reasons. To me it was worth it. Bought one LCD before that had a pixel stuck on blue, and it was annoying as all hell.

Planning to get a 2nd AC adapter for mine and have a spot set up for it near the HDTV to play movies and play games on with a wireless keyboard and mouse.

I've got prolly 2 weeks before I see mine get here, so in the meantime I've got a netbook to mess with and I may order one of the newer 7200rpm laptop drives off NewEgg to work with.

I'm jealous! (But only until I get mine) ;)

Sync

05-29-2009, 05:37 PM

BKR2879

05-29-2009, 06:28 PM

My Dell that I had before this had horrible dead pixel problems. Not stuck, dead. I had the screen replaced about a year and a half ago because of it, and by the time this laptop got here the whole bottom of the new screen was covered in them - at least 20, and some of them were huge. So dead pixels are a sore subject with me too. At least if it gets to a certain number, Sager will fix it under warranty.

I think for the Sager's it has to have 5+ dead before they'll replace it.

For me, even one is like a thorn in my side, so I'd rather pay the extra to know I've got a 100% perfect screen.

Ryvaeus

05-29-2009, 08:30 PM

I got it. :)

Now I'm looking for ways I can protect the exterior of the laptop. Right now, I just left the screen and case protection that it shipped with, but maybe somebody knows of something I can buy to do a better (and less ugly) job of keeping scratches and my super-acidic sweat off my new precious. :) I've got something for my keyboard already so that's covered.

If nothing turns up, I may just order a custom skin from xoticpc and apply it myself. :D

Also, I've got a question regarding the NP8662 and 3rd party adapters like the ones Belkin offers. It's been hanging around for a while now (http://www.xoticpcforums.com/showthread.php?t=4161), if anybody's got any information regarding this I'd appreciate it greatly!

BKR2879

05-29-2009, 08:49 PM

I'm probably going to see about ordering a skin later on when I have a little spare cash again. I wanted to do it when I ordered, but an unexpected car repair bill used up some cash I didn't have to spare.

I've no clue on the power adapter. I usually just buy a spare from whoever makes the machine, but if you're looking for a smaller travel size, that won't help you in this case I guess.

You could always try sending an email off to the Belkin support people and see what they have to say. Granted, I've no idea what their support is like as I haven't used a Belkin product in a long time now for no particular reason.

DrewB

05-29-2009, 10:01 PM

It's going to cost the same amount plus shipping to get a skin from xotic. ;)

BKR2879

05-29-2009, 10:21 PM

It's going to cost the same amount plus shipping to get a skin from xotic. ;)

Right, but I'll have the money then to do it. :D

I only had enough to order just the laptop left after the car bill when I placed my order so the skinning had to get tossed to the side for now.

Once I save up some spare change again, I'll get a skin for it though.

lastdayx52

05-29-2009, 10:57 PM

I ordered the Sager NP8662 today w/ PayPal eCheck. Let's see how long it takes for me to get mine :D.

triptogn

05-30-2009, 12:51 AM

I ordered the Sager NP8662 today w/ PayPal eCheck. Let's see how long it takes for me to get mine :D.

Maybe you'll luck out and have the paypal clear right when the new shipment of cpus arrive that we are all phase 1 stuck on waiting for.

igorthrus

05-30-2009, 01:09 PM

TiPpA5

05-30-2009, 01:14 PM

so about these new processors... if i order the np8662 now will I be getting one?
and also there are only three new processors, but four old ones.... people have said that the p9600 will go to the p9700, but what about the T9550(also at 2.66 ghz). Would it also be upgraded to the p9700 for $35 less money...
what do you guys think?
I dont know about the upgrading P9550 BUT if you want to get the upgrade go with the P9600 and order it pretty much RIGHT NOW the processors are due to be in tomorrow or the next

igorthrus

05-30-2009, 01:40 PM

I dont know about the upgrading P9550 BUT if you want to get the upgrade go with the P9600 and order it pretty much RIGHT NOW the processors are due to be in tomorrow or the next

even if i don't do it now, wouldn't they start using the next processors anyways. or will the price go up? i thought that they would be about the same price since they are just the updated models, though i have no basis for that i suppose.

lastdayx52

05-30-2009, 01:54 PM

A price check on the P9600 is ~$200-$250. P9700 will be $348.

Source:
http://forum.notebookreview.com/showthread.php?t=381818
http://techiton.blogspot.com/2009/02/intel-mobile-cpu-t9900-p9700-p8800-due.html

igorthrus

05-30-2009, 01:59 PM

InkBlot

05-30-2009, 08:10 PM

DrewB

05-30-2009, 09:39 PM

BKR2879

05-30-2009, 09:41 PM

At least yours is in the same state now. ;)

My new netbook will be here Monday so that will tide me over until the 8662 gets here in another couple of weeks.

Hopefully the next couple of nights you won't get delusions that it's calling your name from the UPS warehouse. :D

Chris

05-31-2009, 12:47 AM

InkBlot

05-31-2009, 12:10 PM

Just put my order through for an 8662.. The laptop looks nice and all, but I just wanted to be in the club :D

But really, I can't wait. After years of trying to game with an intel gma, I'm not sure my family will ever see me again once I get this beast of a machine.

But that's why we get the laptops! So we can be with our families, sitting in the den with our headphones on, eyes glued to the screen. Our families will see lots of us, we just won't see them.

Xixecel

05-31-2009, 01:33 PM

As I feared, Friday night my laptop made it to Dallas, sitting in a UPS facility nearby. In fact, it's probably in the one not 10 minutes from my house. Yet there it sits, until Monday when the UPS trucks roll forth for deliveries....

...and when I'll be stuck in work all day, unable to stay home to sign for it. So it'll be Tuesday before I get it, unless I resort to breaking and entering of the UPS facility this weekend.

:(

My 9280 will be here tomorrow.. and go figure UPS actually updated the ticket this "sunday" morning just tell rub it in my face that its less than 30 mins from me, but i cant have it until tomorrow.. fortuneatly for me i have my mother in law living with me for free, im making her stay home all day until it arrives :D so i wont have to wait til saturday to sign for it when not in work lol.. sooo anyway yeah, lets BnE the sob's.

-Xixecel

powerpack

05-31-2009, 01:43 PM

My 9280 will be here tomorrow.. and go figure UPS actually updated the ticket this "sunday" morning just tell rub it in my face that its less than 30 mins from me, but i cant have it until tomorrow.. fortuneatly for me i have my mother in law living with me for free, im making her stay home all day until it arrives :D so i wont have to wait til saturday to sign for it when not in work lol.. sooo anyway yeah, lets BnE the sob's.

-XixecelI know how those mother in laws can be. You know "I just ran out for 5 minutes". Consider chaining her close to the door. Make sure to leave some water and crackers for her. I mean not like we are inhumane?:D:)

Xixecel

05-31-2009, 03:39 PM

I know how those mother in laws can be. You know "I just ran out for 5 minutes". Consider chaining her close to the door. Make sure to leave some water and crackers for her. I mean not like we are inhumane?:D:)

You make a very good point.. she even mentioned that all she had to do was goto the post office, that could be the critical period she needs to be here... oh man i need to find some thick chains and my race car duct tape. an ill leave her water an some saltless crackers cause we dont need her sodium levels exploding or somethin... :D

-Xixecel

Chris

06-01-2009, 10:13 PM

Placed my order Saturday night and hit phase 2 today at 2:40 pm. So far I'm impressed :)

Ryvaeus

06-01-2009, 10:36 PM

You could always try sending an email off to the Belkin support people and see what they have to say. Granted, I've no idea what their support is like as I haven't used a Belkin product in a long time now for no particular reason.

I did so right after you suggested this. They only just got back to me. :D Here's what they said:

Thank you for contacting Belkin Customer Support.

Our Travel Power Adapter part F5L010 should work just fine with your model laptop.

Danielle Hogan
Customer Support
Belkin International Inc.
www.Belkin.com

On an unrelated note, I've now got a problem with my new baby! :( It's a Creative X-Fi / Intel Turbo Memory issue, at least that's my diagnostic. Full details here (http://www.xoticpcforums.com/showthread.php?t=4242), I don't think this thread is the right place to gripe about the NP8662 anyway. :)

InkBlot

06-02-2009, 10:14 PM

Yesterday was the first delivery date, and I was stuck at work pretty late. Today, I took off work after lunch, and came home to stalk the UPS guy. Since I couldn't hack their GPS network, I was resigned to peeking out the window every ten minutes.

Wouldn't you know it, it finally shows up at 6pm (I took off work for this?).
http://i125.photobucket.com/albums/p63/InkBlot14/th_TheBox.jpg (http://s125.photobucket.com/albums/p63/InkBlot14/?action=view&current=TheBox.jpg)

After some unpacking, I laid everything out on the floor:
[/URL]http://i125.photobucket.com/albums/p63/InkBlot14/th_CustomSkinnedLaptop.jpg (http://s125.photobucket.com/albums/p63/InkBlot14/?action=view&current=Accesories.jpg)http://i125.photobucket.com/albums/p63/InkBlot14/th_Accesories.jpg

Carefully, I opened it up...be sure to find and remove all the safety plastic.
[U]http://i125.photobucket.com/albums/p63/InkBlot14/th_SagerNP8662.jpg (http://s125.photobucket.com/albums/p63/InkBlot14/?action=view&current=SagerNP8662.jpg)

Booted up, and although I got Vista x64, I had a downloaded copy of Windows 7 ready to go. I installed that, and I'm still setting things up. So far, in Vista my Windows Experience score was 5.5. In Win7, I've got a 5.9. I don't know the reason for this, it might not be quite the same scale as before.

So that's where I am now, still downloading and installing stuff. If you like my skin, I found it on the interwebs in three different colors:
http://i125.photobucket.com/albums/p63/InkBlot14/th_Fast_burn_blue_1920x1200.jpg (http://s125.photobucket.com/albums/p63/InkBlot14/?action=view&current=Fast_burn_blue_1920x1200.jpg)http://i125.photobucket.com/albums/p63/InkBlot14/th_Fast_burn_green_1920x1200.jpg (http://s125.photobucket.com/albums/p63/InkBlot14/?action=view&current=Fast_burn_green_1920x1200.jpg)http://i125.photobucket.com/albums/p63/InkBlot14/th_Fast_burn_red_1920x1200.jpg (http://s125.photobucket.com/albums/p63/InkBlot14/?action=view&current=Fast_burn_red_1920x1200.jpg)

The skin came out beautiful, although it seems like the blue is a bit greenish (well, teal), but I've no complaints.

Redangelman

06-03-2009, 11:09 AM

Guess who just got their laptop after 36 days of anticipation!? Woohoo! First reactions: built strong, looks/feels great (although I'm not too impressed with the skin at all,) and the speed at which it booted was unbelievable!

Patel

06-03-2009, 11:31 PM

Anyone know how to turn bluetooth on? NP8662 here

gltovar

06-04-2009, 03:09 AM

please, oh please can I get a tracking number tomorrow... then if I get it friday (next day) its 47 days waiting. sucks if I have to wait some time next week T_T

^_~

InkBlot

06-04-2009, 10:15 AM

Anyone know how to turn bluetooth on? NP8662 here

Depending on your version of Windows, it ought to be lurking in the Control Panel somewhere. I'll look for it tonight, when I next see mine.

InkBlot

06-04-2009, 10:25 AM

More reactions so far...

Windows 7 is working pretty well, although it's been a challenge trying to figure out when/if I need to install drivers.

I haven't had a chance to benchmark yet, but WoW and Fallout3 play beautifully. I do find it odd that under Vista, my video card had the strongest score in the Windows Experience index, with my CPU being the weakest. In Win7, it's the opposite. Means I need to keep an eye on Nvidia for improved drivers, I guess.

Minor issue with the fingerprint reader. If the laptop goes to sleep, the fp reader doesn't always work when it wakes back up. A reboot, or disabling/renabling the device seems to fix it. I'm thinking its a Win7/driver issue.

Physical issue: the headphone jack is a bit iffy. I have to carefully position my headphone plug until I get sound. It doesn't feel loose, so I plan to try other headphones to see if it's repeatable.

In all, if you're choosing to go Windows 7 - get video drivers from Nvidia first thing after you install windows. The generic drivers slow your system waaaaay down. Windows can cope with most of your other drivers OK, just glance through Device Manager to see what's missing.

So far, I think I had to install drivers for the built-in memory card reader, and that's it. I installed the software for the web cam, not because Windows didn't detect it (it did), but because I could find any software in Windows to let me use the camera to see if it worked.

Oh, and don't install the fingerprint software. Windows detects it and loads a working driver itself, so the fp software can't find a device to work with (since Windows got to it first). Windows only goes as far as biometrics for windows login, though, not other applications. So if you want those features, you might have to fight to get the fp software to take control.

These are early impressions - I hope to get some benchmarking on Win7 done soon, so we can compare to Justin's Vista numbers. It'll be cool!
:yes:

ahatfulofhollow

06-04-2009, 02:57 PM

woot! After researching a ton of different makes and model laptops, I finally pulled the trigger on the Sager 8662 and I am now in phase 1.

On a side note... anyone know the watt-hours on the 8-cell battery? I'm curious how much battery life I will get with the P9700 (@25watts), the GTX 260m, intel SSD, and the glossy-matt screen.

igorthrus

06-04-2009, 08:20 PM

These are early impressions - I hope to get some benchmarking on Win7 done soon, so we can compare to Justin's Vista numbers. It'll be cool!

Yeah, i'd be interested to see those numbers too as i'm also planning on installing win7.

Also, what software did you get for the webcam, anything worth recommending? - i do love the mac photobooth thing, is there any equivalent in the windows world?

InkBlot

06-04-2009, 08:58 PM

Yeah, i'd be interested to see those numbers too as i'm also planning on installing win7.

Also, what software did you get for the webcam, anything worth recommending? - i do love the mac photobooth thing, is there any equivalent in the windows world?

Just to make sure it works, I just installed Sager's webcam drivers from the disc. It comes with a simple utility to use the webcam for recording pictures and video.

InkBlot

06-04-2009, 09:05 PM

Anyone know how to turn bluetooth on? NP8662 here

I found it! Had to dig through the manual. Although it's not labeled on my keyboard, [Fn]+[F12] is the hotkey to turn the internal bluetooth on and off. It's off by default, and when I hit [Fn]+[F12] the first time, Windows 7 detected and installed some generic drivers for it.

It detected as "generic" but a check of Windows Update found a better driver.

Ryvaeus

06-04-2009, 09:24 PM

Physical issue: the headphone jack is a bit iffy. I have to carefully position my headphone plug until I get sound. It doesn't feel loose, so I plan to try other headphones to see if it's repeatable.

That's strange; my headphone jack feels very extremely uncomfortably tight. I have to really push the plug in order for it to get in there.:confused:

lastdayx52

06-06-2009, 10:58 AM

My new order hit Phase 2, after 3 business days. Not too shabby.

Lstormy10

06-07-2009, 01:20 AM

I found it! Had to dig through the manual. Although it's not labeled on my keyboard, [Fn]+[F12] is the hotkey to turn the internal bluetooth on and off.

Wow. Never knew that - awesome.

DRY_ICE

06-07-2009, 01:30 AM

Has anyone had overheating problems with the 8662? If not, do you foresee any heat related issues and/or do you know if the fan in this Sager will be able to keep up with the heat in the long run? (not cooling well enough or dying out). I just bought a 8662 since the notebook I have now crapped out after a couple years from overheating/fan death so I'm kind of paranoid haha... I'm not too familiar with Sager but from what I've read they seem decently solid for quality no? Oh, and does anyone know how easy it is to access the fan for cleaning? The one I have right now has next to 0 access unless you're an effin extreme specialist so cleaning was limited to compressed air.

InkBlot

06-07-2009, 04:23 PM

I've got some numbers now.

3DMark Vantage at the default settings: P5443
http://i125.photobucket.com/albums/p63/InkBlot14/th_3DMarkVantage.png (http://s125.photobucket.com/albums/p63/InkBlot14/?action=view&current=3DMarkVantage.png)

As well as 3DMark06 at both the default settings: 10337, and bumped up to 1920x1200: 8425
http://i125.photobucket.com/albums/p63/InkBlot14/th_3DMark06-1280x1024.png (http://s125.photobucket.com/albums/p63/InkBlot14/?action=view&current=3DMark06-1280x1024.png)http://i125.photobucket.com/albums/p63/InkBlot14/th_3DMark06-1920x1200.png (http://s125.photobucket.com/albums/p63/InkBlot14/?action=view&current=3DMark06-1920x1200.png)

powerpack

06-07-2009, 05:35 PM

Thanks for the benches!

When are you going to start tweaking?

DRY_ICE

06-07-2009, 05:44 PM

Hey guys, I was wondering if anyone has any information about heat/fan unit in the 8662. I just ordered one and wanted to know if the fan does a good job, if Sager uses quality fan units, and if the fan will be somewhat easily accessible for cleaning and such.

InkBlot

06-08-2009, 01:22 PM

Thanks for the benches!

When are you going to start tweaking?

Still reading up on it. My last laptop, a plain ol' Dell, I had some success tweaking the video card, but not the CPU. I'm very new to overclocking/tweaking, and I'm not really sure where to start.

I need to be careful, because after a week of use I noticed the HDD runs warm, getting up to 57C at one point while playing Fallout3. So, I picked up a Zalman NC2000 from a local computer store, and it's made a huge difference. Very quiet, keeps my HDD temp around the 30-40 range. My graphics can still run a bit warm, reaching 60 after an hour or more of video game usage.

So, I want to find out more what the safe temp limits are, and which parts to start overclocking first (and how).

Sync

06-08-2009, 05:12 PM

Wow, that's a really nice 3DMark score. I'm getting 9700-9800ish on mine - does the P9600 really bump up the score that much over the P8600? What video drivers are you using?

And 50-55C was normal HDD temp for me, and sometimes it would spike to 59 or so. I disabled write caching and it dropped it below 50 (it's 49 right now). Haven't measured temps after any serious gaming yet, but the fan sounds like the laptop's about to achieve liftoff during 3DMark. :p

DLalonde

06-10-2009, 12:16 AM

First off,
I just got my new NP 8662 the other day, ITS AMAZING.
Hands down the best computer I've ever had.

I ordered it without the OS, Installed a Windows XP Home Edition CD I had around. Sadly, I'm only able to use 3/4g of my ram! :( W/e, I'm planning on getting Windows 7 within the week.

I installed all sorts of the programs I like to have to keep my computer running well, antivirus, spyware, malware, etc, as well as a whole handful of games from Warcraft III TFT to Crysis.

So, my sager has been running great. I'm very impressed, however, I have a couple problems:

The DVD-RW drive spins up real loud and sounds like everything on the left-hand side of the computer will just blow up. It sounds almost like a suped up electric shaver... Not on all CD's, but about 3-4/5 of them.

The HD, and GPU, are running EXTREAMELY hot. I downloaded "speedfan" and have been monitoring my hardware temps with it. Just web surfing etc The HD idles around 50 Degrees, however after prolonged casual use, not gaming, its now 59 degrees. After installing Crysis, and Xconfig v1.3 to modify the graphics to their maximum capabilities, I ran crysis completely maxed out. It ran shockingly well, sometimes it would skip, but COMPLETELTY playable. However, after about 20 minutes I checked the temps and my GPU was up near 70 degrees, so was the HD. This cannot be a good thing. After quitting the game, they slowly went back down, but the HD is still around 60 degrees and the GPU is back down to ~45.

Is there maybe somewhere I can get more recent HD drivers? Or maybe some utility that reduces the temps, could it be XP?

The laptop is completely unobstructed on a wooden desk. 80% of the surface of the laptop is cool-room temp, while just right of the touchpad it is very hot.

Please give me some feedback!

Thanks.

Demokk

06-10-2009, 03:33 AM

However, after about 20 minutes I checked the temps and my GPU was up near 70 degrees, so was the HD. This cannot be a good thing. After quitting the game, they slowly went back down, but the HD is still around 60 degrees and the GPU is back down to ~45.

As far as I know, 70°C on a GPU while under heavy load (Crysis for instance) is normal. I don't really know about the HD though.

I read somewhere that you should only worry if the GPU temperature goes beyond 90°C.

I just checked Nvidia's Knowledge Base and found this:

"Graphics card temperatures typically range from 40°C to 90°C. Performance class graphics cards can reach high temperatures under heavy load. "

http://tiny.cc/JHeMz

Hope this helps!

markjsc

06-10-2009, 08:25 AM

I don't know about the maximum allowable temps, but I would definitely recommend using a notebook cooler. I've got mine on a large all-alluminum SilverStone cooler (from NewEgg) - unfortunately, this one is not very portable. I also have a much thinner StarTech cooler that is thin, plastic, and quite portable.

Both do a great job to improve airflow and reduce temps. Although I should admit that I haven't played any games yet to see how high the temps get under extreme use (I bought it mostly for business).

InkBlot

06-10-2009, 12:07 PM

Is there maybe somewhere I can get more recent HD drivers? Or maybe some utility that reduces the temps, could it be XP?

The laptop is completely unobstructed on a wooden desk. 80% of the surface of the laptop is cool-room temp, while just right of the touchpad it is very hot.

Please give me some feedback!

Thanks.

You opted not to get an O/S, did you still get the basic drivers disc? A lot of people recommend installing the Intel Storage Matrix drivers (on that disc, or also at Sager's website), and suggest it helps with HD temps.

Myself, I got a cooler - a Zalman NC2000. I was running at near 60C in games before, with the cooler I keep between 40-50 even running heavy games. It's a huge difference.

DLalonde

06-10-2009, 09:32 PM

OK,
So based on these responses its probably smart to get a laptop cooler.
I've been looking at the Zalman NC2000 because it seems to be pretty popular, but, are there any others you guys would suggest for this specific (NP8662) laptop?

Any help would be GREATLY appreciated!

Edit: I'm deciding between 2 coolers, the Enermax Aeolus CP100 and the NZXT Cryo S, anyone have any preferences or know which one I should go with by any chance?

gltovar

06-10-2009, 11:05 PM

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3408/3614849339_8527e554de_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3416/3614849579_f7602a7e8b_b.jpg

Skin came out extremely well, looks painted. = D

powerpack

06-10-2009, 11:16 PM

Alright guys going to start with some sage advice that might get specific (or might not? hard day at work).

Sage advice: You guys bought the best 15.4 made. I guess pushing the thermal envelope should be no surprise. I do admit I did not see it either (I don't own but do read) but am not surprised. I guess that answers a lot of questions why no SLI or maybe even 280m?

OK the HDD seems to be the main concern. That said from my knowledge 60C and on some 65C are the max operating temps. What does that mean? That means the MFG has decided that is the maximum safe temp. Does it mean it will melt? No. Further in some very complicated studies and evaluations I have read and sorry at this point can't link. Thermal issues are way over rated for causing failure. But let as consider why does 5C or 10C cause sudden death? It does not. I forget the technical terms but they (MFG's) test failure rates at things like failures per 100,000. If 1,000 fail under 60C but 2,000 fail above 60C? You have gone from a 1% failure rate per year to a 2% failure rate per year. Yes that is a 100% increase in the per year failure rate. But only jumps from 1% to 2% against the population.

I must say the number I picked 1,000 was made up and I think higher than real. So if true even less impact than my example which I already think is acceptable or low.

My sage advice is your drives might not last 5 years say only 3 years. But does that matter for the level of performance you get? I think it does not. Just back up the important data.

All the same goes for CPU and GPU and any IC in there. Heat kills. I have read every 10C cuts 5 years off the life of a CPU. But if as tested lifespan is guessed at 25+ years. If yours only lasts 10 years what does that matter real world? I am not sure it does.

Of course coolers are a great idea when an option but stressing when not seems to be misguided.

May I suggest when one buys a sports car and pushes it, more things may happen than to mom's minivan. Also one of my main points is with the Ferrari's you guy's bought you are not looking beyond 5 years? So much concern is of little concern as trust me. This greatest notebook will be a dog in 5 years. So even if you have to replace a HDD in three years for what $100? What does that matter in the big picture.

You guys are pushing the envelope don't focus on the MFG spec's.

This was meant to be reassuring for you all not anything else. I hope I said my points in a way that does come across. If massive failures and I am wrong? Will be figured out and corrected under warranty. Yes they run hot, but does not mean a problem.

Good luck and until a real problem just keep posting and sharing. If anyone wants me to test their new 8662 for a few months just PM me. I might even pay postage.;):)

Tahnok007

06-11-2009, 12:22 PM

Just received mine 20 minutes ago :D busy installing and updating everything, it's gona take at least a day xD

quick question: all the drivers should already be up to date right?

Sync

06-11-2009, 01:01 PM

The drivers should be fine, except you might want to download the latest graphics drivers from nVidia if you're planning on gaming. They just released a new one a few days ago.

lastdayx52

06-11-2009, 07:16 PM

Turns out I have a faulty Motherboard...

That's great.

DRY_ICE

06-12-2009, 05:19 AM

Is it just me, or does it seem the 8660-2 are not all coming out too well? Seems to be a little list of issues growing here. I hope mine's not defective! :eek: haha

markjsc

06-12-2009, 08:15 AM

For what it's worth, mine seems to be in perfect shape (just arrived this week). My only complaint is the high temp of the hard drive - I guess that's the tradeoff for getting a 7200 RPM disk. And that's more of a design issue than a quality issue. I just hope it holds up over time.

strato_220

06-12-2009, 10:31 PM

Does the X-Fi card have better headphone sound quality than the integrated audio, or is it the same?

powerpack

06-12-2009, 10:45 PM

Is it just me, or does it seem the 8660-2 are not all coming out too well? Seems to be a little list of issues growing here. I hope mine's not defective! :eek: hahaI can't argue with you on that but let's not make a run on the bank yet?

For what it's worth, mine seems to be in perfect shape (just arrived this week). My only complaint is the high temp of the hard drive - I guess that's the tradeoff for getting a 7200 RPM disk. And that's more of a design issue than a quality issue. I just hope it holds up over time.Seems to be common I would not even worry about. Read my previous post.

Does the X-Fi card have better headphone sound quality than the integrated audio, or is it the same?On paper sure. Real world? How old are you? How good is your hearing? Ever worked construction with high Db? Maybe maybe not?;)

strato_220

06-14-2009, 02:11 AM

Well I can tell 128kbs mp3's from 192kbs, I've played musical instruments all my life so I can tell good sound quality, but I can't differentiate quality much past cd quality. I guess the better question is if it's better than an old Dell xps m1210 sigmatel card. I know what you mean though, it's completely relative to how sensitive people's ears are.

DRY_ICE

06-15-2009, 05:24 PM

Does anybody know a good program for monitoring all temps like hdd, cpu, gpu etc. I used to use speedfan but it doesn't get the hdd temp for the 8662, nor can I control the fan speed.

markjsc

06-15-2009, 05:32 PM

I've been using the simple-but-effective HWMonitor: http://www.cpuid.com/hwmonitor.php

powerpack

06-15-2009, 07:22 PM

HWMonitor very good if you ask me.

DRY_ICE

06-15-2009, 08:12 PM

Thanks works great.

fault

06-16-2009, 02:26 AM

Mine is in phase 2 now, just waiting for my check to get there. Seriously, I cant get off of this website, because some how, i feel it will make my laptop come faster

DRY_ICE

06-16-2009, 03:03 AM

Hahaha I've been there. This site rocks though great feedback from smart buyers and fellow model owners. Can't beat it..

lastdayx52

06-16-2009, 03:39 PM

Mine is in phase 2 now, just waiting for my check to get there. Seriously, I cant get off of this website, because some how, i feel it will make my laptop come faster

If it makes you feel any better, my laptop's status never changed from Phase 2. I never got a shipping confirmation, never got a shipping tracking number. To this day, it's still listed as Phase 2.

I got the package last week.

To make you feel worse, my laptop came broken...

ahatfulofhollow

06-16-2009, 07:11 PM

Mine is in phase 2 now, just waiting for my check to get there. Seriously, I cant get off of this website, because some how, i feel it will make my laptop come faster

You are ahead of me... I placed my order June 4th and I am still in Phase 1 waiting for parts. Would be nice if they bothered to give an eta of when said parts were supposed to arrive instead of a generic statement.

DRY_ICE

06-16-2009, 07:32 PM

Wow guys that sucks. Maybe they just haven't updated the status for some odd reason and it's stuck in shipping? Or maybe the parts you ordered are being held up by the manufacturer? I ordered June 5 and got my laptop yesterday (should have been sooner but UPS is an awful courier IMO). Right after I ordered... literally a hour or so... Xotic updated my status to phase 2 and it was built quickly thereafter (skipped phase 3 - went straight from 2 to 4). The parts I ordered for my 8662 are: Intel P9700 @ 2.8Ghz 25w, GTX 260M, 4GB DDR3, 320GB 7200RPM HDD, 15.4" 1680x1050, Windows Vista Home Premium. Anyway, good luck with geting your 8662, I love mine!

fault

06-16-2009, 11:24 PM

They recieved my check, but now they are saying it will take 1-2 weeks to clear with my bank.... the reason i didnt do the paypal echeck was because I thought sending a check would be faster.... o well

Justin_W@XoticPC

06-17-2009, 11:00 AM

fault

06-18-2009, 11:40 PM

You can also look into doing our "secured payment (http://www.xoticpc.com/payment-information-ip-14.html)" option if you want the production process to progress while we wait for your check to clear. A PayPal eCheck takes 3-5 business days to clear through PayPal.

Yea thats what i did, so i finally moved to phase 4, and it shipped today! It already went from baldwin city, Ca to columbus ohio, and i live in michigan, so it aint to far away! Sadly it says its scheduled date is monday, but im hoping it may be here by saturday

eridium

06-19-2009, 09:54 AM

Well, my laptop has shipped! I will be waiting for it's arrival which is scheduled for Tuesday.

Just hoping everything arrives intact.
:biggrin:

DRY_ICE

06-20-2009, 07:48 PM

Good luck! UPS dinged mine up a little bit... might have caused the stress spot on my screen....... Hope you're luckier! haha

fault

06-21-2009, 02:08 AM

UPS is pissing me off... Yesterday, the 19th, my computer arrived at a store in ohio which is an 1.5 hours away from my house, at 6:30 AM, so I thought to myself, well surly it must be here by tommorow! But there wasnt even a departure scan until 6:30 PM, and there was never an arival scan, not on the 19th or on the 20th! Now that its sunday, I have to wait until tommorow, when UPS will probably come while im at work. Ugh to anxious

lastdayx52

06-21-2009, 12:22 PM

DRY_ICE

06-21-2009, 01:30 PM

lastdayx52

06-21-2009, 01:55 PM

I had the same situation. My laptop was 5 minutes from my house at 5 AM on a Friday. It never went out for delivery that day... which I waited around all day for... but instead sat there until Saturday when it suddenly moved past my house and to a place about 30 minutes from my house, and I had to wait until Monday... I then waited from 8 AM until about 3 PM when suddenly it arrived beat to hell and slightly damaged as a result. I hate UPS...

Why'd you wait all day for? UPS Tracking site clearly has a "Scheduled Delivery Date". Its scheduled delivery wasn't Friday. Why waste time and wait for it then?

Also, why wait from 8am? UPS' normal residential delivery is afternoon... My house, its always ~7pm-ish, where as if I ship it to my location at work (same town), it gets there ~11am-2pm.

If the product is damaged because of shipping, make a claim on their website. You paid for insurance for a reason! Make them pay for the damage. I hope you took pictures for evidence before you opened the package and all that, because if it was really beat to hell, you surely must have. Like how DHL delivered an office chair for me once... tears and rips all over the box; parts of the chair was sticking out, actually. Took photos of how it arrived, didn't open the package, made a claim, and DHL paid for a replacement chair (I'll admit; it did take a long time... about a month's worth if I remember correctly).

DRY_ICE

06-21-2009, 02:26 PM

Why'd you wait all day for? UPS Tracking site clearly has a "Scheduled Delivery Date". Its scheduled delivery wasn't Friday. Why waste time and wait for it then?

Also, why wait from 8am? UPS' normal residential delivery is afternoon... My house, its always ~7pm-ish, where as if I ship it to my location at work (same town), it gets there ~11am-2pm.

If the product is damaged because of shipping, make a claim on their website. You paid for insurance for a reason! Make them pay for the damage. I hope you took pictures for evidence before you opened the package and all that, because if it was really beat to hell, you surely must have. Like how DHL delivered an office chair for me once... tears and rips all over the box; parts of the chair was sticking out, actually. Took photos of how it arrived, didn't open the package, made a claim, and DHL paid for a replacement chair (I'll admit; it did take a long time... about a month's worth if I remember correctly).

Well, UPS does deliver early sometimes even though there is a "scheduled" delivery date. Since it was right next to my house I figured they could load it up before they leave at 8-9 AM. Also, I have had packages delivered at 8:30 AM before, and since they give no estimate of when it will come, I had to wait and see. I didn't want to miss the signature and have another delivery date or have to pick it up. Also, the damage is a stress to the screen which I am not sure would even be covered, and is a slight inconvenience at best. There is a slightly darker patch on the screen which I am hypothesizing was from the large dents on the package. Since it was packed well by Sager I think it mostly survived the thrashing it received. I did take pics, but it is not worth sending in for since the damage is minimal and I am not sure this type of damage would necessarily be covered anyway.

fallenxlionheart

06-22-2009, 08:09 AM

kinda freaked i went through ups now

DrewB

06-22-2009, 02:12 PM

Shit.. I can't risk having any damage on my pc..

ahatfulofhollow

06-22-2009, 03:04 PM

hey Justin any new news on those backordered P9700 processors?

/phase1 makes me sad

lastdayx52

06-22-2009, 07:33 PM

SAGER Support has contacted me to tell me that my laptop is ready for shipment, and fully repaired. It will ship today w/ 3-day shipping from CA, so it'll probably take the full 3 days to come to NY here.

SAGER Support and XoticPC Support has been outstanding... I have never been treated so nicely from any Customer/Technical Support agent when dealing with such faults (dealt with DELL, Gateway, OCZ Technologies in terms of computing failure).

fault

06-23-2009, 04:59 AM

So got mine today, well yesterday. Only had the opportunity to play one game so far (when installing all my stuff i got a really serious virus, so had to erase my harddrive), but it seems to work well. The computer is different than my old one which im getting used to, the only real bummer is the laptop had 2 dead pixels on arrival, which sucks, but i think ill live

DRY_ICE

06-23-2009, 05:27 AM

Dead? or stuck? If they're stuck I suggest trying this: http://www.jscreenfix.com/basic.php ... If they're dead sorry to hear that man, my last laptop had a dead pixel but to be honest until I really looked for it I never even noticed it (don't obsess haha) - and the screen resolution was much lower.

Elecman

06-24-2009, 08:35 PM

Hey all-
Anyone report any audio distortion issues in the NP8662? Back in December '08, I bought a NP8660 which I liked quite a bit... except for the above issue. Thread and page illustrating my correspondance is below:
http://www.xoticpcforums.com/showthread.php?t=3602&page=23

This NP8660 was returned back to Sager after they reviewed it. Justin and crew were exemplary in terms of service and still thank them to this day for helping out with my issues.

After returning it, I still needed a notebook. I tried a Macbook Aluminum 13" in March but after 3 weeks it became defective. Applecare fixed it and I then sold it after having lost all faith in Apple. Not willing to give up I found the Asus G50V-X5 on clearance for $950 at Best Buy in May. Fantastic machine at first... until the Wifi Card died on me after the 1st week. That was returned as well. Now maybe I have exhibited a stupid strategy but I missed the Macbook 13" actually. So I bought one from Apple direct as a refurb. Well it was defective too. I am currently waiting for a replacement.

So suffice it is to say I have very poor luck with notebooks. In the event that even this 2nd Macbook 13" doesn't work out, I want to give the NP8662 a try because, despite the audio trouble the NP8660 had when I owned it, it was a fantastic machine and reliable for the short time I had it. And in terms of performance, build quality, metal accents, XoticPC service, and a nice keyboard; after all this I still feel it is the best choice.

So... I want to ask those of you with picky ears... do you hear any audio distortion/saturation in the NP8662 what so ever? I know I am not alone in hearing it on the NP8660. If it can be proven to me within good reason Sager fixed this issue, I say screw the Macbook 13 replacement and I want to buy the NP8662.

Thanks in advance all, and hope to hear from any of you.
Best regards,
Elecman

lastdayx52

06-24-2009, 08:45 PM

So... I want to ask those of you with picky ears... do you hear any audio distortion/saturation in the NP8662 what so ever? I know I am not alone in hearing it on the NP8660. If it can be proven to me within good reason Sager fixed this issue, I say screw the Macbook 13 replacement and I want to buy the NP8662.

I have picky ears :P. I'll offer up my opinion once my fixed laptop arrives. I have bought a SoundBlaster X-Fi ExpressCard soundcard as well, so will give you a brief "review" on these as well.

My replacement laptop was supposed to come Thursday (tomorrow), but UPS rescheduled the delivery to Friday (I won't be home then), so I'll probably pick it up Saturday (and if I can't pick it up then, I won't be home on Monday either for the re-delivery attempt, so I'll get it on Tuesday; hah).

Sync

06-24-2009, 09:43 PM

Still waiting on my laptop to be fixed. It got there Monday and I haven't heard anything since, but they said it would take 2-4 days. I might try to get an update tomorrow if I haven't heard anything yet. So it could be anywhere from Monday to Wednesday/Thursday before I get my laptop back.

I asked them to check the low volume thing that's been posted on NBR in a few threads a week or two ago, since mine seems to have that problem too (I have to turn it up to 100% to be able to really hear it well through both speakers and headphones). But even if they don't fix that, hopefully they'll resolve the beeping issue.

gltovar

06-25-2009, 02:21 AM

Hey all-
'violin music ^_^'

So... I want to ask those of you with picky ears... do you hear any audio distortion/saturation in the NP8662 what so ever? I know I am not alone in hearing it on the NP8660. If it can be proven to me within good reason Sager fixed this issue, I say screw the Macbook 13 replacement and I want to buy the NP8662.

Thanks in advance all, and hope to hear from any of you.
Best regards,
Elecman

the speakers on the lappy are not going to make you happy. seems fine though the head phones, though if I hook it up to a tv (hdmi) I have to mess with the software equalizer on the compuer to be able to balance out music, talking, and sound effects... so you'll probably be just as picky with it.

Elecman

06-25-2009, 05:55 PM

The equalizer wasn't the problem. I ran the NP8660 through my TV via HDMI and in terms of equalizer functions, music, talking, stuff you mentioned, everything sounded just fine. MP3s also sounded great.

Its when I played games, namely Crysis and especially TF2 where every gunshot and explosion created distortion similiar to an amplifier whos input stage is being overdriven and saturating the amplification stages.

I am a Electronic Engineer so thats how I know this stuff. :cool:

I think at the digital or preamp level, unrefined sound effects are a bit too loud and causing saturation. But since movies and most forms of music are engineered to play below saturation level(as viewed through a spectrum analyzer or oscilloscope). But there are exceptions. Listen to Metallica's latest Death Magnetic; its full of distortion and I'm not talking about the fact that it is metal either.

the speakers on the lappy are not going to make you happy. seems fine though the head phones, though if I hook it up to a tv (hdmi) I have to mess with the software equalizer on the compuer to be able to balance out music, talking, and sound effects... so you'll probably be just as picky with it.

lastdayx52

06-28-2009, 10:57 PM

Elecman:
Everything I have played through the X-Fi ExpressCard module sounded acceptable. Not "wow that's amazing"-worthy, but also not "wow this sucks"-worthy.

I have yet to hear these distortions, so I cannot comment on these.

Elecman

06-29-2009, 07:21 PM

Lastday-

Is it possible for you to listen to the audio from this notebook without the X-Fi EC module? IE: try Crysis, Steam apps, anything with explosions while listening with the discrete audio module instead? Do you happen to hear any distortion then?

Everything I have played through the X-Fi ExpressCard module sounded acceptable. Not "wow that's amazing"-worthy, but also not "wow this sucks"-worthy.

I have yet to hear these distortions, so I cannot comment on these.

lastdayx52

06-29-2009, 08:41 PM

Lastday-

Is it possible for you to listen to the audio from this notebook without the X-Fi EC module? IE: try Crysis, Steam apps, anything with explosions while listening with the discrete audio module instead? Do you happen to hear any distortion then?

I tried CS:S with the EC module, and was greeted with familiar sound I hear from my desktop. I tried CS:S without the EC module, and I did hear of distortions you are speaking of. Only during the start of said grenade explosions, however. I haven't done a full comprehensive test, but grenade explosions do seem to have distortions in the beginning of the blast, as if the internal volume is set too high (as you mentioned).

I currently have no other "explosion" videogames installed, so I can't comment on this being a common experience.

I also noticed random steady high pitched noises coming out of my speakers from the onboard soundcard... which would only go away if some random sound effect (AIM incoming noise, Windows noises, etc.), and I observed this too on the onboard speakers as well. These high pitched noises would come at random, and stay until another sound would be made.

I am not at all impressed with the onboard soundcard. It was a good idea I bought this EC (not through XoticPC; got it off eBay for ~$40). I highly suggest you do the same.

DRY_ICE

06-30-2009, 01:38 AM

I play a ton of fps and some rts games. I also listen to a bunch of music - all different genres. What I can say is the laptop speakers are not very good to begin with... but then again... what laptop speakers really are? They're less impressive than some I've had in the past yes, but no laptop has even been able to please me at all as far as sound. Hooking up headphones or speakers to the laptops stock card+ speakers is a must always. I also decided to get the X-Fi expresscard after hearing some decent things about it. It does add a good amount of quality to the sound with external components. Games such as Crysis, Mass Effect, AA3, L4D, ETW, CSS all sound very nice with the card :-).. so long as you also use extenal speakers/headphones. I would definitely reccommend getting the card but on ebay or amazon (you can get it for about $50 easy).

lastdayx52

06-30-2009, 01:51 AM

DRY_ICE

06-30-2009, 02:16 AM

Ah, yeah I would say the distortion and saturation would be coming from the low quality of the speakers (my guess). Even with the Expresscard... you can't push them too far. Headphones/external speakers are fine for me... I don't think the card is an issue, but I do think it could use an upgrade still. I did get that high pitched sound a few times but only on the stock speakers. I'm not quite sure which part is doing what... all I can say is if you care a lot about sound, like I do, NEVER use laptop speakers and in this case upgrade to the expresscard. Just my thoughts on the issue, but then again I can be pretty anal about things being top notch.

ahatfulofhollow

06-30-2009, 02:21 AM

I would suggest buying a pair of external speakers that connect via USB. Speakers such as the Logitech Z-10's (which I have used and sound great) or if budget is not a problem Bose Companion 5's have an on-board DSP and completely bypass the laptop soundcard when plugged in via USB. Both speakers are great 2/2.1 solutions if you are looking for good sound without setting up an entire 5.1/7.1 system around your laptop.

lastdayx52

06-30-2009, 02:27 AM

Logitech speakers have poor mid range, and the crossover frequency between mid and bass is just too broad. Its bass is too overwhelming for me.

Bose Companions are, in my opinion, pretty poor for the price as well.

I have Altec Lansing PT6021s; its highs can be more crisp and clear, but its mids and bass are both fantastically clear, and not overpowering at all.

Elecman

06-30-2009, 07:16 PM

Lastday-

Your insight was very helpful as you totally hit the nail on the proverbial head. While its too bad you also had to resort using an EC, I am glad that you understood exactly what I was talking about.

Thanks again. If I do buy this NP8662, I'll certainly get the X-FI EC with it as well.

And I wonder if its utilization actually helps reduce/eliminate CPU overhead.

eridium

07-01-2009, 09:44 PM

Well, Laptop arrived in great shape. Installed other parts and loaded it up!
I have to say after a week of hacking on it, it's a sexy beast! :D

Details in the sig.

ahatfulofhollow

07-02-2009, 05:25 PM

Wewt! I finally got my laptop today. Overall impressed with the build quality, everything arrived in perfect condition. This machine is a beast, I highly recommend it.

Still in the process of installing everything and my only gripes are the two that everyone has. Left click needs some breaking in... I've resorted to double tapping the touchpad already, and the onboard sound/speakers are terrible (i.e. on par for average laptop quality).

On a good note I've been installing crap on this machine for about 4 hours now (no gaming yet) and the temperature on the bottom of the machine is still lap friendly.

One last thing... what is the best method to remove the stickers on the palmrest? Normally I dont mind them and just leave them on, but there is this really ugly lime green one that stands out like a sore thumb.

lastdayx52

07-02-2009, 05:36 PM

One last thing... what is the best method to remove the stickers on the palmrest? Normally I dont mind them and just leave them on, but there is this really ugly lime green one that stands out like a sore thumb.

Mine's crooked *cry*.

Elecman

07-05-2009, 10:49 PM

Why in a rush to remove the stickers? I'd advise you to wait until the return period has expired. Laptops are very prone to out of the box failures. Just in the past 6 months time I've had 6 brand new laptops fail on me. NP8660, Asus 10" Linux, Asus G50VT-X5, and 3 Macbook 13" Aluminums.

Wewt! I finally got my laptop today. Overall impressed with the build quality, everything arrived in perfect condition. This machine is a beast, I highly recommend it.

Still in the process of installing everything and my only gripes are the two that everyone has. Left click needs some breaking in... I've resorted to double tapping the touchpad already, and the onboard sound/speakers are terrible (i.e. on par for average laptop quality).

On a good note I've been installing crap on this machine for about 4 hours now (no gaming yet) and the temperature on the bottom of the machine is still lap friendly.

One last thing... what is the best method to remove the stickers on the palmrest? Normally I dont mind them and just leave them on, but there is this really ugly lime green one that stands out like a sore thumb.