SysOpt > Features > Storage & Audio > NAS Without the Mass: Vantec NexStar LX Review

NAS Without the Mass: Vantec NexStar LX Review- Page 6/6
July 24, 2006
By Thomas Soderstrom

We tested the NexStar LX in this review as a local network and USB drive enclosure. As a network drive, the NexStar LX offers relatively low performance for relatively low cost. Its average online price, around $70, is the lowest we’ve seen for any NAS enclosure.

Its USB 2.0 interface isn’t stellar either, but far from the worst we’ve ever tested. In fact, had Vantec not spoiled us with its earlier NexStar GX, we’d be a little more forgiving of the LX’s mediocre USB performance.

Likely to be aesthetically pleasing to most, the enclosure also proved fairly good at dampening noise and is nearly silent when running at low speeds. A simple, easy-to-use browser-based interface provides for setup and maintenance.

Pros:

• Low-cost Network Attached Storage
• Easy Web-based GUI
• Great looks
• Good drive noise reduction
• Low-noise automatic cooling for most drives

Cons:

• Relatively slow network performance
• Mediocre USB 2.0 interface performance
• Hot drives may force noisier high-speed fan mode

The Verdict: The NexStar LX provides usable NAS features with relatively low performance, but at a relatively low price. Good looks and acoustics will please buyers on a tight budget.

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