Round Rock, Texas — Dell has launched a Studio XPS desktop featuring Intel’s new Core i7 processor.

The device is available today directly through Dell starting at $949 without a monitor. It can be customized with

Dell's Core i7 Studio XPS

a variety of optional features like a TV tuner.

For the next 48 hours, Dell is offering consumers the chance to purchase an i7 model with 4GB of memory and a 20-inch flat-panel monitor for an introductory price of $999 at www.dell.com/xpsevent.

The XPS desktop has a slim form factor at 14.2 inches by 6.7 inches by 17.1 inches. It comes with Microsoft Windows Vista 64-bit. Other standard features include eight USB 2.0 ports, two IEEE 1394 ports, a connection for a microphone, built-in 7.1 audio support and eSATA.

Other companies like Gateway and Velocity Micro have unveiled i7-based systems as well.