Laptop Thoughts: News & Reviews on Laptops, Netbooks, Slates, and More.

Every time we review a notebook, we test out its speakers by playing a few tunes and videos–and usually come away unimpressed. But laptop makers are now paying a lot more attention to both volume and fidelity, in some cases touting sound quality as a reason to buy their wares. With that in mind, we rounded up four systems that boast enhanced audio capabilities.

A few years ago, if someone told me that one should expect excellent sound through a laptop, I would have laughed at them. Then stop, take a breath, and laugh some more. Things have changed recently, part of which I think is driven by the increasing use of computers as media terminals for watching movies and music. While I still sincerely doubt that any laptop short of what would be classified as a "transportable computer" could have sound comparable to a proper stereo, they have improved. Unfortunately, to benefit from this, you still appear to have to choose one of the bigger laptops. I imagine this is probably a physical and technical limitation rather than a conscious choice by manufacturers. Still, I find that excluding bass, most laptops, even really light and tiny ones will generally provide "good enough" sound for casual listening. What about you? Are you picky about your listening environment, or do things like stock earbuds and netbook audio do just fine?

"When we last reviewed the Dell XPS 15, we praised the notebook's strong performance, best-in-class audio, and colorful screen. Now Dell has upgraded its premium 15-incher with Intel's second-generation Core Series processors and Nvidia GeForce GT 500 series graphics, which promise even better performance. We had a chance to test out a high-end $1,488 configuration of the XPS 15, complete with a 2-GHz quad-core Core i7, 8GB of RAM, a 1080p screen, and Nvidia GT540M graphics. These specs promise--and deliver--remarkable processing and media prowess, but is the whole package worth nearly $1,500?"

The upgraded XPS 15 starts at $799 for a basic configuration, but the system as tested at about $1500 scored well in almost every evaluation category. The biggest faults found were that it was a bit heavy and bulky. A 17-inch version is available for about the same price, if portability isn't needed. Dell has made an excellent notebook even better by upgrading to Intel's Sandy Bridge architecture. Maybe not perfect, but awfully close!

"With plenty of solid mainstream notebooks available for under $700, a machine with a nearly $900 starting price needs to bring something special to the table. Fortunately, Dell's XPS 15 (starting at $849) offers a lot more than just a Core i5 processor and 1GB Nvidia graphics card."

Starting at $849 (with many available options) and a bit bulky at 6.1-pounds, the Dell XPS 15 offers a lot for users looking for more of a high-end laptop. Great JBL sound and the ability to play 3D video (when coupled with a compatible 3D TV). The XPS 15 is able to make Skype HD 720p calls (but results weren't optimal). With a silver anodized aluminum lid, Dell bucks the trend toward designer cases here, but I personally like the more classic look. The keyboard is backlit, but the keys are flat, rather than (chiclet) island-style. Video playback is smooth at 720p and 1080p. The overall verdict: great for multimedia; adequate for gaming; battery life is below average; gets rather warm in use, but overall, a great laptop for use around the house (because of the short battery life.