After some tests, I can now report that I can let my sequencer (Renoise 2.7.2) running in Direct Sound to 10ms latency without problems, crackling or stuttering. That's compared to my previous machine, a Fujitsu Siemens Amilo Pi3540 of 2008/2009 a huge difference. There was even at ~ 50ms latency DirectSound or ASIO 10-20ms regular clicks and stuttering.
The relatively large and matte (not reflective) screen with full HD resolution of 1920x1080 is very good and can be adjusted pleasing light (called Sony Vaio Premium Display, IPS or MVA probably a Panel).
The housing is almost completely Matt, unfortunately, some places are around the display shiny, but that falls when not really work on.
The graphics card will do just fine. However, gamers should look for another unit, because to play at high levels of detail, it is not enough. World of Warcraft to 1920x1080 and medium settings but make the device even at 60 fps (of attitude). The housing remains cool because of the good (and quiet!) Ventilation. The fan runs constantly at a low level and is normally rushes from the hard disk. The hard drive can be heard did not work the way also. The head movement can not hear, but the noise generated by the rotation is perceptible.
Software technology terms, is very well served with the Vaio. Here I am fully convinced of the included Sony software.
Restores, updates, drivers, keypad illumination, power options, etc. It is even possible to "Vaio Care" aufzurämen the computer to defragment, etc.
Anyone who does not need or want to use alternative, but should not uninstall everything. Some important drivers should remain installed in order to leave as the Fn key and the keyboard illumination function. The driver can indeed refer back on the Sony website, but I also made the mistake and uninstalled too much. :)
Short Summary:
+ Matte screen
+ Matt housing (except around the display
+ Very cool system
+ Very quiet fan (under load is the fan of course, to hear at some point ...)
+ Very quiet hard drive (you can hear the heads do not)
+ 2x USB 3, 1x USB 2, 1x FireWire 400, Bluetooth
Supplement, 11/08/2012:
After just over a year, I can report that it the device is going well. There were no failures, errors or problems.
The hard drive is still quiet. It has warped nothing or is loose.
In another year!
