I\'ve found that all-in-one devices tend to perform some of their functions poorer than equivalent dedicated devices. This is just a generalization, but I\'ve seen it more than once. Even the PS2 is an example. The PS2 is a poor DVD player by most standards; it doesn\'t correctly display anamorphic images on 16:9 displays, it doesn\'t output progressive video, and it\'s analog audio quality is not good. The video quality doesn\'t even meet the standard of the cheapest interlaced DVD players. For the moment, this doesn\'t bother me because I still think the PS2 is well worth the cost just as a gaming console.
When you buy an all-in-one device, you\'re stuck with all the components that are included in that device, and for me that\'s a HUGE drawback. I\'m assembling a home theater now, and I\'m very happy that I can replace my components one at a time. I can take my time finding the perfect display, receiver, DVD player, speakers, etc. I know many ordinary consumers are annoyed by having to do that kind of research, but I enjoy it. When Sony and others produce all-in-one devices, I don\'t think it\'s a power play to sieze control of your living room. I think they\'re just trying to hit that certain market of uninformed consumers who want to buy everything based on name brand, and not have to understand the technology behind it.
