Xbox 360 250GB Elite Console

First of all, I really like the Xbox. I think it delivers a lot of value across the entertainment spectrum.

I purchased the 360 S to replace an Elite that was in my game room (moving the Elite downstairs to replace an Arcade).

Unboxing the unit was uneventful: The Xbox itself was packaged very neatly with button-taped wrapping instead of just a plastic bag. A black wireless controller (chromed Xbox orb in the middle), a somewhat smaller power brick, and a standard video cable were also included. I was a little surprised that there was no HDMI cable: It was a nice addition to the old Elite package.

For those who enjoy picking up their Xbox and moving it around there is a nice warning label on the front instructing you to remove any discs from the unit before doing so. Honestly, I have never for the life of me understood why people felt the need to move the console around, and then complain about scratched discs. For me, playing Xbox does not include tossing the console around. But, to each his own.

Setting up the console was simple, just like every other Xbox. I used the transfer cable to move all the junks from the Elite and it performed fine. Not very exciting. I haven't yet attempted the license transfer: It's not a pressing issue since I'm always signed into Live anyway.

The size of the 360 S is a bit smaller than the Elite physically, but it "feels" a lot smaller. I don't know why but it just looks a lot smaller sitting in the same spot as the old Elite than it actually is. Probably a nice visual effect from the new shiny finish and the venting slots and angles. I have it laying down with the new side vent up. You really do feel the heat from this vent that is being dissipated from inside the console. Obviously it would be a bad idea to block it.

While I have read that the unit is only a few decibels more quiet than the orginal, I have to say those few are very noticeable in the real world. I popped in Alan Wake and gave that a go and never heard the console at all. Even while not playing it's very quiet. If I get right up to it I can hear some whirring noise but from a distance I hear nothing. I had little issue with the console noise before, so it's all good with the S. The most noticeable thing that is gone is the DVD drive noise. I hated the sound as the laser head searched over and over on the old console.

As for lack of Blu-Ray: Why would Microsoft add it now? Any game that would be published on Blu-Ray would not be playable on the existing huge Xbox installed base. That, to me, would be an incredibly stupid move and would anger a lot of existing owners. I have my Netflix going and have recently been renting the HD movies off of the Zune service: I have to say the instant on HD streaming is pretty incredible.

The console does have built-in wireless N now. I don't have need for that, so no review on it. The console also adds the optical audio port directly on the console for those who utilize that. The S also has dedicated port for the Kinect, as well as additional USB ports on the back of the unit.

My only gripes are the lack of HDMI cable and the wireless controller did not have a rechargeable battery with it. It was a great gaming console before the refresh, even better after.

UPDATE:
So after playing much more, varied games I can say that I do hear the fan cycle sometimes. I don't find it much louder than the original Xbox. I certainly don't notice any performance changes or any other issues when this happens.

After reading some other posts about adding older wireless controllers I thought I would try adding all of mine: No issues. They synced right up after pressing the button.

Still pleased with the purchase :)Get more detail about Xbox 360 250GB Elite Console.