The Allio LCD HDTV-PC has just entered its second generation life cycle, where just like its predecessors, the Allio 2.0 products will come in 42″ and 32″ high-definition LCD form factors, although you can be sure that the internals will boast a change for the better. Within the chassis, Allio has thrown in a wide range of integrated PC configuration, where you can choose from the all-in-one Allio Lite and Allio Media Center.

The Allio Lite will see the integration of an Intel Atom-based PC architecture into the HDTV, paving the way for a cost-effective point-of-entry into the converged PC TV experience right smack in the middle of your living room. These basic models will come with modest processing power that is on par with that of a netbook, although you do benefit from a far larger display while sacrificing portability. Netbooks these days are powerful enough to handle everyday computing tasks including checking email, surfing the Web, or performing other lightweight Windows-based computing tasks. These can be done with the TV running in the background thanks to a similar interface, allowing you to catch the latest, breaking news as it happens without missing a beat. For those who want more juice, the all-new more powerful version of the Allio Lite HDTV PC will offer Blu-ray support and an integrated nVidia GeForce 9400 chipset for improved graphics performance that is able to handle some games as well.

The Allio Standard will come with Dual Core SKUs based on Intel’s PDC E6300 and Core2Duo E8400, and if you need to squeeze out additional processing firepower, you can always drop more dough by settling for the Core 2 Quad Q8400 option, turning the Allio in to a machine that can not only work well, but give you the opportunity to unwind with a round of World of Warcraft after a long, hard day at the office. You won’t find a tray loading optical drie any more, as it will now come with an elegant slot loading DVD/Blu-ray solution. A third HDMI port and a second set of AV and audio inputs were also thrown in on the side access panel for better convenience when it comes to hooking up to Allio to your home theater system. Expect prices to start from $1,299 for the entry-level 32″ Allio Lite, while those who want all the bells and whistles can settle for the $2,999 42″ Quad Core all-in-one Allio Media Center with Blu-ray.

Press Release