Regarding your question

Regarding your question regarding QuickSync and transcoding:

QuickSync is dedicated logic in the Core i-series Sandy Bridge processors. It is specifically targeted towards transcoding content (decoding (which was already present in Clarkdale) + encoding). Basically, applications that target the QuickSync feature such as CyberLink Media Espresso and ArcSoft MediaConverter will be able to transcode video at a much faster rate than is possible with CPU encoding (or even other vendors’ GPU encoding). In doing so, the system will also consume much less power performing the operation. Sounds great, right?

Well, the cost is that the transcoding quality will not be at the same level as what you might expect from something done with software + CPU. Personally, the only use I have for transcoding is if I am going to place the content on a small screen portable device so I think the tradeoffs of using QuickSync for that application are worthwhile.