The New Xbox Experience (NXE) is quite the reimagining of the overall user interface system we have been accustomed to for the past three years. I was lucky enough to have been selected to be one of the preview program participants and have spent some quality time with the new dashboard so I figured that I would share some of my thoughts. There are some similarities to be found, but oh so many differences and changes for the better, so let’s get into it.

What are the chances? -

My Zune is currently in for repair as it just decided to stop working for some reason. It was a bit of a shock to the system as I had quickly become accustomed to having all my music and media with me and immediately accessible. It was perfect for work, so hopefully it will be back soon and in working order. It’s going on three weeks and I think I’m in withdrawal or something. I have heard it could be up to a month or more for a repair, but hopefully it will not take this long.

I read an interesting article this morning that compares the High Definition DVD capabilities of the Sony PS3 and the Microsoft Xbox 360. The author does well at presenting the positive, negative and neutral aspects of each player while providing relevant insight into each of these players.

I will be putting both the PS3 and the Xbox 360 add-on through their paces to see how much high-def power is really under their well-designed, uber-sleek hoods.

- Peter M. Bracke

I do not own a PS3 as of this moment, but I do however own the HD DVD add-on for the 360 that I picked up at release a couple weeks back. I am very impressed with the quality of the HD DVD drive for the 360 and for me it was a budget minded way of getting into High Definition movies given I already owned a 360 to begin with. The integration of the HD-DVD into the 360 is seamless and works perfectly with the platform, turning it into a true HD multimedia experience. One that is further enhanced by the recent release of the Video Marketplace which offer HD downloads of movies and television shows.

My pre-order for the HD DVD drive finally arrived yesterday as I was starting to think it was never going to show up. As soon as I took the call I was on my way to pick up the latest peripheral for the Xbox360. I must say the player works phenomenally as this device turns your 360 into a fully functional HD DVD player; bringing forth all the stunning high-def visuals and digital surround sound this new HD format has to offer. Installation was quick, taking less than 10 minutes to un-box and set-up. There is an installation disc that needs to be run on the 360 to allow for the player to work as a small update is made to the Dashboard. The update takes less than a minute and then you are ready to play the latest HD DVD movies on your 360.

I now have the first of my Xbox 360 purchases complete. I was able to pick up Need for Speed: Most Wanted and Call of Duty 2 today! I also picked up the Silver Faceplate for the 360. Like everyone else I am still waiting for the system to be released, but it is good to have at least these few items for the time being. I can’t wait to test out the new system and these next generation games!