Date: December 7th, 2010
Article by: Joe Anderson (Hardware Reviewer)
Edited By: Nathan Glentworth (Owner / Head Editor)
Product was submitted by: Xigmatek
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PRODUCT COMPOSITION
For the bargain price of $30-$40 US (depending on color,) here's what you get.
While the feature set doesn't scream budget case at all, the retail box does. It's still informative, but doesn't share any images of the attractive case that's inside. Inside the box, Xigmatek secures the Asgard II in a plastic bag sandwiched between two sturdy Styrofoam blocks. This tried and true packaging scheme allowed the chassis to arrive here at the lab in pristine condition after its long journey. They also protect the I/O panel and shiny trim pieces with additional plastic sheeting.
Included with the chassis is a user's manual, some cable management clips, a padlock loop, three expansion bay covers, some zip ties and the installation hardware. I especially like the fact that Xigmatek includes some expansion bay covers; most budget cases don't.
PRODUCT PICTORIAL AND WALKTHROUGH
With the exception of the orange accents, the case is otherwise classic in appearance. The top panel is unadorned, while the side has come louvers for additional ventilation and a finger grip indentation to aid in panel removal.
While the front panel is entirely plastic, Xigmatek has done an excellent job of mimicking a brushed aluminum finish with a raised logo near the bottom being the only clue to the case manufacturer. Meshed covers on the four big bays and single floppy bay are backed with foam filters for dust control and the two orange accent pieces are highly reflective for a nice contrast. I/O functionality is limited to a pair of USB 2.0 ports and the customary audio jacks, about what one would expect on a budget case. Trapezoidal power and reset buttons flank the I/O ports and have built-in status LEDs. The whole front panel has a very pleasing look, much more stylish that you're likely to find on other cases in this price range.
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