Installing stuff continued:

    Other than the fact there is no removable motherboard tray, installation of the mainboard and all components was very smooth. I have a larger mainboard, which incidentally, is the most stable board I have ever purchased. It's even more stable that Windows XP, if that makes sense. Anyway, I'm rambling. Even though that the IDE and Floppy connectors are low on the board, it didn't feel as cramped as the other case I used before. Those with nicely laid out boards, that aren't full size ATX boards, will have a field day installing all your goodies without tools. (Other than the mainboard) But in general, swap outs will go quick due to the great design in the bays and the slots. Unless you change out boards frequently, you won't be disappointed. So you can leave your screwdriver where you "can't find them." That is where the 4 or 5 I have usually reside. Unless you did screw down your add-in cards, I don't feel it is necessary, although you do have that option. (Picture 25, I am referring to) You can also, if you decide to, remove the mainboard side of the case, and screw down your bay devices and drives. Though, once again, not needed in my honest opinion.


Fans:

    I took a nice close pic of the side fan, and the back ones that I installed. Although the case does come with one plain old black 80mm fan, I couldn't resist throwing something else in there. Take note in picture 27 how reflective the grill is. That is a PSU box about 6 inches away reflecting back. Nice huh?
 

(27) Side fan	(28) Back shot

Pre-summary:

    If you've gotten this far, you can see that this is one unique case that hopefully not everyone will have at a LAN party. While I think it has one major flaw, and no, not the removable mobo tray, it's the flushness (it's flush alright) of the front panel, when it closes, in regards to the drive bays. I have an Optorite DVD +/-R. With the funky design, the bezel sticks out less than 1/4" I'd guess. I couldn't put that drive in the second from the top 5 1/4" bay. I did have to put it on the top. If I wanted it lower, or even stick in any rheobus, you have to remove the protective cover that houses the HD LED and the "EYE" circuit board. That SHOULD give you enough room to fit something aforementioned in. Other than that, the paint is great too! It is a bit easy to scratch, so be careful.


Summary:

    To bring this to an almost close, I really do think most will be happy with this unique looking case. Those looking for an alternative to those Chieftec, Chenming type cases that want something with lots of room, and easy to work with for the most part, this just maybe your ticket to ride. And don't forget the cover hides those "computer brown" devices that you may have already. Seriously though, for a new fresh company, and their first try at a case, this IS something special. I can't wait to see what else they have in store, as I know it will address issues that purchasers, and reviewers have given feedback about.


The movie!:

    Da plane! Da plane! No Tatoo, this is different. Below you will find a link to a moving picture show compressed with Windows Media Player 9. It is also zipped, to prevent unneeded website stress from streaming it. Clocking in at about 1,509kb. You will also see the Hard Drive LED badge in action. (Side note, I had a little fun with it. Enjoy!)

 

The flick! (29)

Pros:

   • Unique looking case
   • Retail units come with PSU's
   • Many color choices available
   • Side window construction is top notch
   • No sharp edges, other than below

   • Tooless design

   • 2 Front USB ports and audio ports

   • Front cover sturdy when closed. Good for transporting.

   • 2 included fans, one is an tri-LED fan




Cons:

   • No way to turn of the LED animation

   • Restrictive airflow for the back fans

   • HD bays sharp

   • No room in front bays for rheobuses by default

   • Adequate airflow, but could be improved

 

"A unique case that one should not overlook!"

Closing:

    I'd like to thank NZXT for sponsoring this chassis for review. I look forward to other cases by them. Even if I don't review them, I'll be watching this company because I think they are on track for some nice enthusiast cases that don't look like your normal, boring beige box. Thanks for coming by. Until next time...

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