What a Beautiful Shell You Have

excellent
key review info
application features
  • New improved visuals and desktop functionality
  • (5 more, see all...)

Where has this Shell been all my life?

I've recently downloaded the latest and greatest "Universal Vista Inspirat Brico Pack" and I think I'm in love. Vista Inspirat Shell Pack is a complete custom shell pack for all Windows XP versions. It consists of modified icons and a new themed appearance for Windows XP, and is one of the best looking shells I've seen so far.

Is it really worth the download?

It's most definitely worth the download. Coming from a guy that's happy and quite content with the default XP themes, I would have to say that I was pleasantly surprised when I first saw what the Brico Pack consisted of. The contours of this design nearly put XP to shame.

What's inside?

After the install, I was caught off guard by the professional looking design that suddenly made my PC look? awesome. I can honestly say that I'm not amused by mere mediocrity and Brico makes sure it's nowhere near that level. Instead, the guys at CrystalXP.net have created a beautifully sculpted masterpiece that you can play around with.

I like the way the futuristic silver gleams around my Windows folders. The icons have all been redone with an edgy professional and modern feel. Aesthetically, this feels sharp and looks sweet.

What also stood out for me was the little mini Dock that felt like a page right out of a Macintosh booklet. It's a great addition for quick shortcuts that don't necessarily take up huge amounts of space on your desktop.

You can even adjust the size of the little devil from a huge bumbling blob with icons to a minute spec.

I think the most interesting aspect of this shell is that they've thought about what the users want and they've actually given it to them. I like that when I open 'My Computer' I get 3 shortcuts to view my system info, to add or remove programs or to change a setting.

The Good

It's beautiful. You get a sharp, edgy, professional looking computer. I personally like the style, but beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

The Bad

From other reviews, I've noticed that you might have trouble with multi-monitor settings. I haven't had any but I thought it would be worth mentioning. It's also a little tough to orient yourself to some of the new icons, and it's sometimes incompatible with The GIMP.

The Truth

I am enamored with this shell. The Universal Vista Inspirat Brico Pack is definitely worth your time and a download. If you don't like it, you could always use your System Restore and go back to the blandness of the XP that you know.

Check out the screenshots below.

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user interface 5
features 5
ease of use 4
pricing / value 5


final rating 5
Editor's review
excellent
 
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