I am an architect interested in getting into CAD and 3-d modeling. Several
months ago, I bought IIci 20/230. Now I'd like to buy a 16" monitor and a 24
bit video card (like the E-Machines Futura SX).
After some fairly extensive research and a close reading of the August
MacWorld review, I was set to buy the E-Machines T16II. Alas, I ran out of
money and had to postpone my purchase. Since then there has been a new
MacUser review recommending the Sony 1604 and the E-Machines has changed
tubes. At this point I can buy the Sony for around $1000. and the E-Machines
for around $1300.
The only major difference that I can see between the two machines is that the
E-Machine "supports a fourth resolution" (1280 x 1024 pixels) vs Sony's 1024 x
768.
Here's my confusion: I've been told that the fourth resolution comes in very
handy when doing CAD work--allowing one to "pan and zoom" various areas of
the screen without losing image quality. But it doesnt' seem that that
feature makes much difference to the MacUser reviewers. Is this because it's
really not all that useful a feature? Or because the fourth resolution is
only accessible using an unusually expensive video card? or what?
There must be some way to account for the $300. (25%) difference in the price of these monitors. I'd just as soon save the money if the "fourth resolution" is of little
or no value. On the other hand, I'll pay the money for a higher quality,
more versatile monitor.
Any insights will be much appreciated--I seem to be frozen in indecision.
Just plain advice is also welcome. Other recommendations?
