VIP Newsletter Issue 21 - June 23

Issue #21 June 23

Q2 started well for us here at VIP, with the launch of AMD’s 7800X3D CPU and Nvidia’s 4070 GPU injecting some much-needed life into the computing market. However, this appears to have been short-lived with subsequent months proving challenging, as sales have been low and therefore stockholding high. Despite this, VIP’s share of the market continues to improve, highlighting that it’s certainly not a case of losing business but more that there’s less business to go after right now. Hopefully this provides some solace for the many of you reading this who are seeing a challenging sales environment at present.

Add to this the 0.75% increase in the Bank of England base rate that we’ve seen since my last update and it’s fair to say the tricky times are continuing. Not only does such an increase impact consumer spending (through increases to their overheads like mortgages) but it also squeezes the profitability for distributors, where we rely on borrowing to bridge the gap between vendor and customer payment terms.

On the positive side, we’re beginning to see a surge on B2B business with its peak now upon us. Resellers who can successfully pivot your business to capitalise on both consumer and B2B peaks will stand yourselves in good stead. This is something VIP has been targeting in recent years, adding more B2B lines to our portfolio and a heavier focus internally. If this is an area you’re keen to explore, then please get in touch with us and we’d be happy to support.

Talking of adding new products to our portfolio, I promised that new vendors would be coming in my last update and this latest quarter has seen us launch as the exclusive distributor for PowerColor’s reputable AMD VGA range, as well as adding CIT to our cases and PSU offering. The launches aren’t stopping there, with more to come before B2C peak, so keep your eyes peeled on VIP’s socials for the latest news.

Finally, June saw a number of key events take place, with VIP attending Computex in Taiwan at the start of the month, meeting with many of our key vendor and customer partners, as well as some prospective ones too. You can find more information on our key takeaways from Computex here. Whilst three of our team were on the other side of the world, seeing the latest in computing technology, the rest of us were back home to host the return of the ‘VIP Cup’ for the first time since pre-Covid. The event sees members from VIP, as well as contacts from our vendors and customers taking place in a 90-minute football match and we were lucky enough to secure Goodison Park as the venue this year. The game ended 1-1 and I’m pleased to say that yours truly was proud to lift the trophy (the first one at Goodison for some time!) as the winning captain, thanks to a sudden death victory in the penalty shootout. Lastly, the end of June saw a number of our team, as well as partners from MSI, Razer and Microsoft attend this year’s Tech Max event. It was fantastic to see so many of our customers in attendance and I know many of you will be reading

this. I’m sure you’ll agree it’s great to be able to get out there and see each other face to face but we don’t restrict this to just such events, with our Head of Distribution, Carl, out on the road at least once a month. If you’re interested in him coming to your stores or offices, please don’t hesitate to contact him.

We’ve plenty to look forward to as we enter the start of our new Financial Year, with B2B peak, back-to-school, further graphics card launches and early B2C peak planning, as well as additional vendor launches at VIP, as highlighted earlier. As always, a huge thank you to those of you who have read this far, it really is appreciated.

Wishing you all the best for the summer months and please don’t hesitate to get in touch if there’s anything we can do to further support your business, or you have any feedback for us.

Sales Director

Taiwan’s PC show, Computex, returned to Taipei at the end of May. Dave, Darren and Harpreet couldn’t wait to check out the latest PC developments.

Here’s their highlights, from our current vendors, and what you can look forward to seeing in the near future…

The most exciting advancement for us was the move to pass through all power cables to the back of the motherboard, creating super clean and incredible looking PC builds. We saw concepts from both ASUS and MSI. This trend will also lead to cases with ¾ glass. We saw some stunning examples of this and what a difference it makes it to the aesthetics with no cable mess and a greater surface area showcasing the stunning components and clean design inside.

We also saw several manufacturers including Corsair & Hyte showing concepts for new case cooling designs which reduce the need for cables – with fans that clip together to pass through data and power directly with no need for any additional connectors, and AiO CPU coolers that minimise extra cabling by hiding additional cabling down the pump tube. You can find more information about Corsair’s iCUE Link offering in the New and Noteworthy section.

One of our newest vendors PowerColor wowed with this Alien™ case theme which is an extension of one of their Devil Skin graphics card swappable backplates.

This Pro Art graphics card with its clean simple design and 3 fans with no lights is designed for business and designers who still want high quality materials, rather than gamers, and is already in stock –SKU: 123523 and 123525.

The ASUS ROG Rapture GT-BE98 won a best in show award from Trusted Reviews. It’s the world’s first quad-band Wi-Fi 7 gaming router and can deliver speeds of up to 25,000Mbps. This is an impressive beast of a router.

Another exciting offering from ASUS was their new handheld Windows 11 gaming machine, the ROG Ally. This is currently available from Curry’s or directly from the ASUS web store.

For a more thorough run down of the events highlights check out this review from The Verge.

Windows 11 the most secure Windows

Get the best and most secure Windows experience with Windows 11.

With powerful built-in, Zero-Trust security to safeguard your data and identity, its easy to stay safe and protected with Windows 11.

From the box to startup to browsing, Windows 11 helps you stay secure.

Next-generation antivirus and malware protection. Tracking prevention.1

Biometric logins.2 Windows 11 features all builtin, always updated, and at no extra cost to users.3

1. Requires the latest version of Microsoft Edge.

2. Requires specialized hardware, including fingerprint reader, illuminated IT sensor or other biometric sensors and capable devices.

3. During the device support period provided by the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM).

Windows Security

Windows yet

Safeguard business data and identity with powerful built-in security:

Hardware-based isolation

Encryption Malware protection

Identity protection with password-less security

Help protect customer data and access with a Zero Trust-ready OS.

It’s easy to stay protected with Windows 11

VIP Computers recommends Windows 11

TO WINDOWS 11 5

REASONS TO MOVE

1 2 3

Windows 11 is the best Windows yet. Microsoft is no longer selling Windows 10 and it will no longer receive new features from Microsoft. It became EOL with Distributors in December 2022.

4 5

Security. Windows 11 is Zero Trust-ready with built in security features that are always updated and at no extra cost1.

Improved gaming features such as Auto HDR, DirectStorage and DirectX12 make Windows 11 the best Windows OS for gaming. Recent updates included optimisations for running games in windowed mode.

Windows 11 was designed for hybrid working. Productivity and collaboration tools make it easy to get work done anywhere.

1 During the device support period provided by the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM).

Make sure you’re taking advantage of the latest POS & bundle deals.

Buying Genuine?

How does buying unlicensed Windows 11 affect your business?

Counterfeit software brings many risks for you and your customers. For example, consumers and enterprises have a 33% chance of encountering malware when they obtain and install

NUMBER ONE

AGON BY AOC SECURES NUMBER 1 SPOT AS THE WORLD'S LEADING GAMING MONITOR BRAND.

Cutting-edge technologies (such as Mini LED and DisplayHDR 1400), exceptional performance (with refresh rates up to 360Hz), and unwavering commitment to providing the ultimate gaming experience are just a few of the reasons that make AGON monitors so sought after.

NUMBER

AOC GAMING

Designed for casual and core gamers, these monitors accommodate players of all skill levels, from content creators and streamers to those who relish the thrill of exploration and adventure. The AOC GAMING line emphasises the importance of the gaming experience itself, providing diverse options that cater to gamers' varying moods and interests. The AOC GAMING category offers a value-focussed approach to deliver highquality, high-performance monitors to a mass audience of entry-level as well as intermediate gamers, with products such as the renowned 24G2SPU/BK, 25G3ZM/BK or U28G2XU2/BK monitors.

interests. The AOC GAMING category offers

AGON

Tailored to mainstream and hardcore gamers, the AGON line-up serves competitive players who aspire to become heroes in the gaming scene, like their favourite streamer or top esports players. With a premium design and useful extra features, AGON monitors excel in providing a seamless and immersive gaming experience for multiplayer esports titles, such as shooter and MOBA games. AGON's 5th generation monitors offer the latest 32-inch AG325QZN/EU with a 240Hz refresh rate and response times as low as 1ms GtG, empowering competitive gamers to unleash their true capabilities with fast reflexes and fast decision-making.

AGON PRO

Crafted for high-end gamers, AGON PRO monitors minister to high-level content creators, influencers and professional esports athletes, such as the renowned G2 Esports, RNG and Furia Esports teams sponsored by AGON by AOC, who demand the best in gaming technology. These individuals are driven by competition, strive to achieve personal bests, and seek superior features, exceptional performance, as well as unparalleled quality to indulge their passion for gaming. AGON PRO monitors deliver an unmatched experience for popular esports, shooter, MOBA and similar titles, and the line-up offers custom designed monitors such as the League of Legends branded AG275QXL. AGON PRO models come with cutting-edge technologies such as Mini LED backlighting to achieve 1000 nits peak brightness and localised dimming zones (AG274QZM), or high refresh rates of up to 360Hz and pro tools such as the NVIDIA Reflex Analyzer (AG254FG). Thanks to built-in features such as a KVM switch and USB-C connectivity (AG324UX), these models improve productivity for content creators and professionals, whilst included add-ons such as the Screen Shield (in selected models) or QuickSwitch controller vastly improve the gaming experience, whether on stage at esports tournaments or in the comfort of one's own living room. Stay tuned for AGON PRO's 6th generation of monitors that will bring long-awaited technologies to gamers worldwide.

selected models) or QuickSwitch controller vastly improve the gaming experience, technologies to gamers worldwide.

to built-in features such as a KVM switch

The all-new innovative EVNIA 25M2N3200W and 25M2N5200P gaming monitors in stock July 23.

Introducing two new Evnia monitors, the Philips Evnia 25M2N3200W (123543) and the Philips Evnia 25M2N5200P (123547). True to the Evnia philosophy of “gaming for all,” these monitors deliver the ideal combination of swift action, immersive viewing, and physical comfort, inviting gamers of all profiles to enjoy every moment.

SKU: 123547

25M2N5200P

SKU: 123543

25M2N3200W

Key Features of New Philips Evnia Monitors

• Ultra-fast refresh rates of 240Hz (25M2N3200W) or 280Hz (25M2N5200P).

• Fast VA and IPS panels with moving picture response times (MPRTs) as low as 0.5ms.

• Low input lag for a smooth, fast-paced gaming experience.

• SmartImage HDR modes for optimal colour, brightness, and contrast at all times (25M2N5200P).

• Ergonomic stand (height-adjustable, with swivel, tilt and pivot function) for optimised comfort.

• LowBlue mode and Flicker-free technology for enhanced visual well-being.

Generous, Innovative Features for an Optimal Gaming Experience

Today’s games have never been more immersive – provided the monitor can keep up. With the Philips Evnia 25M2N3200W and the Philips Evnia 25M2N5200P, players can rest assured that every session will be as smooth, swift, and satisfying as the last. With refresh rates of 240Hz and 280Hz, respectively, even the most intense action sequences remain ultra-fast and ultra-smooth with clear, accurate images free of juddering and ghosting, allowing gamers to let go and enjoy the game. Coupled with low input lag and 0.5 ms MPRT fast response, even the most fast-paced, twitch-sensitive games are certain to be more thrilling than ever. The Philips Evnia 25M2N5200P also comes with a USB hub and an array of convenient On-Screen Display features such as MBR Sync, DarkBoost, and Smart Crosshair for an even more enjoyable gaming experience.

Visual Experience to Match

As any gamer will confirm, peak visual performance is a must. Here again, the Philips Evnia models do not disappoint. Respectively equipped with a fast VA LED display or a fast IPS display, both with 16:9 Full HD resolution and 178/178 wide viewing angles, these monitors deliver exceptionally vivid, luminous images that not only enhance every gaming session, but are also a major benefit when viewing photos, movies, or using any kind of graphics-based application.

It’s hard to walk away from a great game, which means that physical comfort must be optimal even during extended playing sessions. Both of these monitors are equipped with a wide array of features designed to enhance and protect users’ well-being. Philips LowBlue Mode and FlickerFree technology reduce eye strain and fatigue, while the CompactErgo base can be tilted, swivelled, and height-adjusted for consistently comfortable viewing.

TECH MAX EVENT

It was great to see so many resellers face to face at Tech Max.

We hope you all enjoyed the day, and took time to pick up one of our fantastic goodie bags.

The Tech Max team included Dave, Carl, James, Adrian (Razer), Adrian (MSI), Shaban (MSI) and Jack (MSI) and they were thrilled to speak to everyone throughout the day.

The Battle of the Distributors was a great session, and we hope that Dave answered all of your questions?

We look forward to seeing everyone at next year’s event, if not before then!

for Budget Esports Upgrades

Recommended by Matt Solloway (Gaming Product Manager) and Gareth Sinclair (Devices and Networking Product Manager), these products aren’t all new, but their price & popularity definitely makes them noteworthy.

Razer Kraken Black Gaming Headset

Since its inception, the Razer Kraken has built a reputation as a cult classic within the gaming community. It made its mark as a staple at countless gaming events, conventions, and tournaments.

Whether creeping through a dungeon or speeding through a racetrack, the highfidelity audio of the Razer Kraken Gaming Headset keeps users immersed and engaged.

SKU: 122963

MSI MAG A750GL

PCIE5 750W ATX Fully Modular Power Supply

The MAG A750GL PCIE5 power supply is designed to be ready for NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 40-Series graphics cards, thanks to its ATX 3.0 and PCIe 5.0 support. The single rail supply of power can properly deliver the power needed and can handle up to 2x total power excursion and 3x GPU power excursion. For high-performance graphics cards and CPUs, this power supply's 5 CPU & PCIe slots are more than plenty.

1

SKU: 123496

2

MSI MAG A850GL

PCIE5 850W ATX Fully Modular Power Supply

The latest MAG GL Series PSUs helps complete MSI’s offering of PCIe 5.0 ready power supply units across its entire lineup. In addition to being ATX 3.0 compatible and PCIe 5.0 ready, with native 16 Pin connectors designed in yellow to improve assembly identification, these award-winning 80 PLUS Gold certified power supply units are fully modular, and single-railed with a DC-to-DC structure.

SKU: 123495

3

CORSAIR Vengeance®

32GB (2 x 16GB) DDR5

Memory

Push the limits of performance with this 5200MHz DDR5 memory module that comes with custom Intel® XMP 3.0 profiles. Whether it’s gaming, creating content, or opening 100s of tabs, CORSAIR’s Vengeance DDR5 memory handles most tasks with ease.

SKU: 121526

4

Intel® Core™ i5-13600K

Desktop Processor

With 6 performance-cores and 8 efficientcores, this incredible 13th generation processor can reach up to 5.1 GHz. Gamers can expect next-level performance thanks to Intel® Thermal Velocity Boost, Intel® Turbo Boost Max Technology 3.07, and 24 MB Intel® Smart Cache.

SKU: 122472

5

The VIP Cup made a comeback on the 1st of June, with a Premier League promotion for 2023.

Everton Football Club's Goodison Park was the host as 2 teams of vendors, customers and employees battled it out on the hallowed turf of the Grand Old Lady.

It was a closely fought contest, with the teams going in 0-0 at half time and then 1-1 at full time after a brilliant 30 yard effort from Callum

Ward for the home team was cancelled out by James Dunn slotting it home for the away team. The battle was then settled with penalties, finishing 2-1 to the home team after Nick Barden scored the winner.

Thank you to our spectators for your great support on the day, all that was missing was a rendition of "Spirit of the Blues".

We're already looking forward to the VIP Cup returning for 2024.

Some of the action from the day

NVIDIA®

are beyond fast for gamers and creators. They're powered by the ultra-efficient NVIDIA Ada Lovelace architecture which delivers a quantum leap in both performance and AI-

powered graphics. Experience lifelike virtual worlds with ray tracing and ultra-high FPS gaming with the lowest latency. Discover revolutionary new ways to create and unprecedented workflow acceleration.

GeForce RTX™ 40 Series GPUs

Welcometo NEWSLETTER

It has been an exciting quarter and we are so pleased to welcome PowerColor and CiT to the VIP UK family!

As the leading GPU brand of the Tul Corporation, PowerColor sets itself apart by harnessing the cutting-edge visual processing unit (VPU) technology developed by AMD.

Their award-winning graphics cards focus exclusively on high-end AMD gaming GPUs and getting the best performance from them.

CiT, is a leading manufacturer of competitively priced computer components and peripherals. Best known for their chassis, CiT produces stylish and modern cases that are adorned with bold designs, rolled edges, mesh grills, RGB lighting and more.

BUSINESS & PRODUCTIVITY MONITORS - TAILORED TO YOU CAMPAIGN

Elevate any work and entertainment experience with MSI Business & Productivity monitors.

Featuring TÜV certified technologies to keep eyes safe, and a huge variety of models to satisfy different needs, there is an MSI PRO monitor for that feels tailored to you for a perfect match.

Now for a limited time, customers can also get up to 6 months of FREE Spotify Premium Subscription when they buy select models. Get yours now and enjoy the complete harmony!

*Terms and conditions apply, this offer is valid for a limited time only and is subject to availability.

Terms & Conditions

REDEEM IN MOMENTS

Redeeming is simple and only takes a few moments to complete. You'll just need your invoice and receipt handy.

Once validated, Spotify Redeem code will be sent to your MSI Account address.

INTRODUCING CORSAIR ICUE LINK & MP600 MINI SSD

iCUE LINK unifies PC components with a single, intelligent connection, giving users the freedom to connect and route any way they want. Up to 14 iCUE LINK devices can be synchronised and controlled with one System Hub, eliminating the frustration of managing multiple cables and connectors.

iCUE LINK smart components:

- Support exclusive features like the incredible Time Warp lighting mode.

- Contain a built-in microcontroller for two-way communication with the System Hub.

- Include their own temperature sensors for more detailed system monitoring.

MP600 Mini

High speed storage meets small form factor

The MP600 MINI brings CORSAIR’s M.2 SSD performance to its smallest ever size, with the M.2 2230 form factor measuring just 22mm x 30mm. The small size coupled with a 1TB storage capacity and 4,800MB/sec read & write speeds, makes the MP600 Mini ideal for ultra-thin, portable devices, such as the Valve Steam Deck™ and Microsoft® Surface.

1TB MP600 Mini M.2 (2230) SSD

System Hub

SKU: 123481

GETTING TO KNOW...

JACK ELLIS NIGEL

…let’s find out all about the boys.

If you could snap your ngers and become an expert in something, what would it be?

Nigel: Specialist in coding.

Jack: Gambling.

Ellis: Music theory.

If you could visit anywhere in the world, where would you go?

Nigel: Tulum Mexico to visit the Mayan ruins.

Jack: Dublin.

Ellis: New Zealand.

What’s your favourite way to unwind?

Nigel: Reading and cooking.

Jack: Golf.

Ellis: Gaming.

What’s the best advice you were ever given? Who was it from?

Nigel: Your life is your responsibility – my mum.

Jack: Fake it till you make it from Carl Woods.

Ellis: Always try to be friendly and easy to work with

college music tutor.

What do you do to turn things around when you’re having a bad day?

Nigel: Smile and think about better times ahead.

Jack: Listen to music.

Ellis: Listen to Funk and Soul.

Talk to us, we’d like to collaborate with you!

To support our aim to ‘help your business grow’, we would like to find out what is important to you and how VIP UK can support your business in 2023. Speak to your account manager at your earliest convenience so we can collaborate for mutual success.

If it’s been a while since w e last spoke to you, there’s no better time to speak to us as we have lots of deals available to help you buy smarter.