Trying to decide on a 360.

[Cloud121]

Okay, I've been planning on buying a 360 for a long time now. I was gonna get the Elite at launch, but got screwed out of some money. I was gonna buy a Core a month ago, but lost my job. Now that I have a new job, I hope to finally get a 360 within the next month or so. So, here are my options. Core, Pro, Elite, Halo 3.

Now, there will be some silly things involved (Color for example), but I'm weird like that (Thanks OCD!)

Anyway, here we go.

Xbox 360 Core:
Pros:
+Completely white (Matches Dreamcast)
+Wired controller (Use it on my computer)
+Standard A/V
+Accessories match the look
+Expand as I go

Cons:
-No HDMI Port
-Can't play my Xbox games immediately without HDD

Now, the reason for the Core is I already have a wireless controller my friend gave me, so I can just use that (Just need a play and charge kit), and use the wired controller on my computer. Standard A/V because I don't need Component, as I plan on getting a VGA cable when I get my HDTV (I know exactly which TV I want). And the complete white of the system matches my Dreamcast (My favorite system ever), and the accessories (Vision Cam, HD-DVD Drive, etc.).

I also plan on buying a 512 MB memory card with whichever 360 I get. I see those for around $30 or so used, so add $30 to the total of all of them.

Xbox 360 Premium:
Pros:
+HDMI Port
+Mostly white system matches my Dreamcast and accessories
+Backwards compatible out of the box.

Cons:
-Wireless Controller
-20GB HDD
-Component cables
-HDMI cable NOT included

The Premium is the one I most likely will not get. Yes, it comes with an HDMI port, but I still need to buy an HDMI cable. Microsoft doesn't make those separate yet do they? Besides, a good high quality HDMI cable is at least $60. I don't need component, as the TV I want I will use either HDMI, or VGA, and the extra wires hanging from my setup will bug me. I don't want the 20GB HDD either. It's either 120GB or nothing. I'm a complete media and demo whore (Just ask my friend and when I used this 360), so the 20GB is just not enough. As for the wireless controller, I don't want to use the wireless on my computer with the add-on, I want a corded controller for that.

Xbox 360 Elite:
Pros:
+Everything's Black
+120GB HDD
+HDMI
+HDMI cable included
+Backwards compatible out of the box

Cons:
-Wireless controller
-Everything's black. Accessories and Dreamcast don't match
-Shopping around, I could probably get a Core Elite for less

Now the Elite comes with everything I need. However, after doing my research and everything, I could go with the Core, and get the 120GB HDD, 512MB Memory Card (Not included), and Play & Charge kit (Not included), for about the same price. Though the HDMI is nice, as with my HDTV I want, it will leave the VGA port open for my Dreamcast.

Halo 3 360:
Pros:
+It will becomes a collector's item eventually. So might as well get one now before it gets high in price
+HDMI
+Play & Charge kit included
+The Orange look is pretty cool
+Backwards compatible out of the box

Cons:
-20 GB HDD
-HDMI cable not included
-Accessories don't match the color scheme

The deal with the Halo 3 360 is simple. The 120GB HDD won't match the look of the console itself when bought separate. But other than that, it's all good. Though again, the accessories won't match the look either.

Again, some silly, and probably pretty stupid reasons why trying to decide (Most notably the color matching and all), but I know of other people who are the same.

Honestly though, the big thing is the HDMI/VGA debate. Regardless of which console I get, I'll use either VGA (Core), or HDMI (Pro, Elite, Halo). The reason for going with HDMI is because then the VGA port on my HDTV will be free, so I use it with my Dreamcast. However, not all Dreamcast games support VGA, so I might as well just stick with S-Video for the Dreamcast.

Now, let's add it all up:

Xbox 360 Core:
Console ($280)
512 MB Memory Card ($30)
Play & Charge Kit ($20)
120GB HDD ($100 - $150)

Total: $430 - $480

Xbox 360 Premium:
Console ($350)
Sell HDD (-$20 as an estimate)
512 MB Memory Card ($30)
Play & Charge Kit ($20)
120GB HDD ($100 - $150)

Total: $480 - $530

Xbox 360 Elite:
Console ($450)
512 MB Memory Card ($30)
Play & Charge Kit ($20)

Total: $500

Halo 3 360:
Console ($400)
120GB HDD ($100 - $150)
512 MB Memory Card ($30)

Total: $530 - $550

What are all your opinions?

[8-bitNesMan]

I would get the elite, best deal for the $$$ IMO

[Slate]

Just get an elite. Not only does it save a few dollars, It is more reliable then the "Premium" Model.

[FlufflePuff]

Get the elite. If you get the Halo 3 box and it dies, you'll more than likely get a regular replacement anyway. Only really get one of those if you plan on keeping it minty fresh.

[Darth Sensei]

Don't get one at all. I am on my 4th and wished I had bought something else.

[Oobgarm]

Don't let others' misfortunes sway you. Elite is the way to go.

[gum_drops]

Don't let others' misfortunes sway you. Elite is the way to go.

I agree, odds are better then a coin flip that your system will be fine and not need to be sent in for repairs.

[sabre2922]

Don't get one at all. I am on my 4th and wished I had bought something else.

Agreed


From another thread I posted on:

"I would say wait another 2-3 months before picking up another 360 to get a better and more reliable product and from what I read NO it wont have to be an elite model ALL MODELS will be improved with the new chip and are NOW being shipped with the new heatsink."

[Cloud121]

Thanks guys, I'm actually leaning towards the Elite now. But again, my OCD is getting to me with the colors matching and all.

Heh... I'm sure it won't look that bad. It'll just be white on black.

[icbrkr]

I agree, odds are better then a coin flip that your system will be fine and not need to be sent in for repairs.

If it's one of the more recent ones, I might agree with this. If it's the original, no-hdmi-one, good luck. I'm at the point where literally every friend I have in my area has had theirs sent back (Brad, Heath, Justin, myself, Steve). That's one lucky flip of the coin.

Not saying don't buy one (I do like mine), just the 1st iteration is obviously flawed.

[webjeff]

I'd definately get the elite or premium. I have 2 premiums (my one got red flashing...pending fix from microsoft). The wireless controllers are the best EVER. I would not imagine going back to wired... even if you want to use it in your pc, I think they sell an adapter now for that.

Jeff.

[diskoboy]

Actually, in the next few months, MS WILL be phasing in the new chips, and the Premium model will have HDMI, along with the new mobo.

But if you really need a 360 now, get an Elite.

[heybtbm]

Actually, in the next few months, MS WILL be phasing in the new chips, and the Premium model will have HDMI, along with the new mobo.

But if you really need a 360 now, get an Elite.

The 360 pro's w/HDMI have already started to ship. The first case hit my local Best Buy (Madison, WI) earlier this week. They have the updated heat sinks (like the Elites), but still have the 90nm chipset.

Essentially I'm saying that a white 360 with HDMI can still be a "overheater" for the time being.

[neogamer]

If I were you I would go with either a Halo console (better return on your investment if you decide to sell it later on-due to limited availability) or the ELITE system(which will definately drop in price). The ELITE system, seems to have the better parts in it and a better track history. Of course, it has only been on the market for a few months.

There was an article in EGM that stated that the best 360 parts were being put inside the ELITE model. If I were to buy a 360, and I will be soon (because mine is close to death), I would probably go with either an ELITE or Halo system.

The collector in me says buy a Halo system! I at first thought the ELITE system was a limited system (see my other thread), but it appears, I was wrong!

[Cinder6]

Thanks guys, I'm actually leaning towards the Elite now. But again, my OCD is getting to me with the colors matching and all.

Heh... I'm sure it won't look that bad. It'll just be white on black.

Funny enough, the Elite being black is also a point of contention with me. My reason, though, is that the black case really, really makes it look even more like a cheap Dell computer :| Maybe, when I get one some day, I can find a broken white 360 and swap the cases. That would be cool.

[Slate]

I should have mentioned that you should wait until the elites have the 65nm chips in them. And I hope you aren't going to put your dreamcast on top of the 360 because after I left the HD DVD player on my 360 for awhile the DVD Drive started having major problems opening and closing.

[Nirvana]

First of all, buy an Elite. The system is so reliable, and I am in love with mine. So much space causes pretty much unlimited downloads. Plus, you never have to say, "Man, I wish my 360 had more memory. Should have bought an Elite..." Because you'll know you've gotten the best kind ;)

Second, you should buy a system cover for the 360 Elite. I'm sure there's one that will match your Dreamcast just fine. :) My friend is the same way, he is so paranoid when it comes to matching stuff.

[Cloud121]

I should have mentioned that you should wait until the elites have the 65nm chips in them. And I hope you aren't going to put your dreamcast on top of the 360 because after I left the HD DVD player on my 360 for awhile the DVD Drive started having major problems opening and closing.
Nah, I'll be having my 360 vertical, with the HD-DVD drive next to it. I've had a spot on my gaming setup reserved for my 360 for the last six month, and vertical is the only way it will fit.

As for the Dreamcast, I'll just get a Sega Sports one to match. Besides, I've been meaning to get one for awhile, and this is the perfect reason to do so. :)

Now, why do I keep seeing pictures of Black wireless internet adapters? Did Microsoft make one, or are they just photoshopped? I most commonly see them on Intercooler pictures (No, I am not buying an Intercooler. Probably something USB powered to plug into the Wii).

[FAMOUS]

get an elite, and purchase a white faceplate...

[SaturnFan]

Don't be too happy about backwards compatabilty on the 360. BC sucks on the 360 with half of the original xbox games still unsupported.

[jsiucho]

Don't be too happy about backwards compatabilty on the 360. BC sucks on the 360 with half of the original xbox games still unsupported.

And you own all the games available on the Xbox to complain?

Go with the Elite and be done with it!

JS

[briskbc]

I would wait until the 65nm chips are part of all manufactured 360s and leave enough time for the old inventory to sell through. I've had a really bad experience with the 360 so far.

[neogamer]

And you own all the games available on the Xbox to complain?

Go with the Elite and be done with it!

JS

Same difference between the 80GB PS3 and the 60GB PS3! I bought two 60GB PS3 systems and everyone thought I was nuts. That is until they realized that the 60 GB is the only true backwards compatible PS3 and that it is no longer in production any more!

I actually believe in the future, the 60GB PS3 systems, are going to be in demand, especially for people like me, who don't use there systems for online downloading or any type on internet gaming!

[Cloud121]

I've narrowed it down to the Elite, and Halo 3 model.

The collector in me is screaming to get the Halo model, but the demo/media whore in me is telling me to get the Elite.

[josekortez]

I've got a white Premium, and I'm on my second one, but if I could go back and do it again, I'd get the Halo edition.

[Ikari Warrior]

The Elite is also the only one that comes with the "Audio Only" cable, with optical/stereo audio on it's own cable for if you're using HDMI for video but don't have an HDMI receiver for sound. This ends up being pretty important, as it's not sold seperately and you can't use a standard 360 av cable with an HDMI for audio. The HDMI on 360 looks terrific, extremely sharp. The 120g HDD is also really great to have.

[Cloud121]

The Elite is also the only one that comes with the "Audio Only" cable, with optical/stereo audio on it's own cable for if you're using HDMI for video but don't have an HDMI receiver for sound. This ends up being pretty important, as it's not sold seperately and you can't use a standard 360 av cable with an HDMI for audio.
Ah crap. I can't believe I forgot about that one. Thanks for reminding me, as now that does put the Elite in my favor once again.

[Bassgrabber]

White faceplate and skins (what someone else called a cover) for the Elite if that's the way you decide to go. Don't count on transferring the cases, might be differences you can't see from the outside.

I've been debating getting one, but will wait for the reliability issues to be resolved first.

[Mianrtcv]

What did you get? I gave my original away, but now I'm considering picking one up. Are the current in store models different chip/heatsink/whatever? Also, are there identifiable serial #'s that could i.d. if they are? If you did get it, any insights as to good/bad?

[Slate]

Did you get an elite? It's the way to go. I'm going to get an elite because my current 360 is starting to mess up and I'd like the bigger HDD so I can put more music on it and keep more demos.

[gum_drops]

The Elite is also the only one that comes with the "Audio Only" cable, with optical/stereo audio on it's own cable for if you're using HDMI for video but don't have an HDMI receiver for sound. This ends up being pretty important, as it's not sold seperately and you can't use a standard 360 av cable with an HDMI for audio.

Cant you just run a cable from the audio/out on your HDTV to your sound system?

[Slate]

Cant you just run a cable from the audio/out on your HDTV to your sound system?

Nope, That won't work. The audio only cable is also $50 if purchased seperately.

[gum_drops]

Nope, That won't work. The audio only cable is also $50 if purchased seperately.

I see what you are saying if a direct digital audio signal is desired from the system to the output device.

I ran the hdmi cable from my ps3 to my TV. Then I ran cables (analog) from the TVs audio out into the VCR which is hooked-up up to 4 speakers and a subwoofer. The sound probably isnt as good as a digital signal mentioned above, but it sure beats using just the two tv speakers.

I was planning on picking up a 360 pro this winter and doing the same thing, but you say it wont work with the 360?

[heybtbm]

I was planning on picking up a 360 pro this winter and doing the same thing, but you say it wont work with the 360?

If you get the 360 Pro, you'll have to buy the $49.99 HDMI kit. Either that or just get a 360 Elite (it comes with the HDMI kit).

[Slate]

I see what you are saying if a direct digital audio signal is desired from the system to the output device.

I ran the hdmi cable from my ps3 to my TV. Then I ran cables (analog) from the TVs audio out into the VCR which is hooked-up up to 4 speakers and a subwoofer. The sound probably isnt as good as a digital signal mentioned above, but it sure beats using just the two tv speakers.

I was planning on picking up a 360 pro this winter and doing the same thing, but you say it wont work with the 360?

I'm not sure if you understood me correctly. If you use HDMI and try to use a Component cable for audio, It won't work. That is where the audio only adapter comes in.

[Lerxstnj]

Get the Elite with a white faceplate, keep your old Xbox for old incompatible games and paint it white, get The Darkness for the 360, & get Hydro Thunder for the DC if you don't have it already!!! :-D

PROS: You will have access to the best games ever with those 3 systems.

CONS: You can't stack them on top of each other neatly because of the stupid 360 concave design.

[Cloud121]

I already bought my Elite about a month ago. I appreciate all the input. :)

[Nukie]

I would like to thank you all for the info as well, as I've been shopping for one and will now have to get the elite. thanks guys

[Slate]

You're welcome, Enjoy the HDD space, Rip tons of CDs! :D