Intro

To begin I would like to thank ExoticPC.com for making this review possible. Check the end of this review for a very special discount exclusive to readers of this review. To start lets give the manufacturers review of their own case. So here is a little copy and paste from the ExoticPC website:

“Do you need a case that's simple and elegant? The Stealth XP is the latest offering from Ahanix, and it's the right case for you. Sophisticated and sleek style are matched with features and quality that aren't found on the average basic case. The front bezel comes in either true black or white plastic, not a paint job. The side panels are vented for better airflow, and an 80mm fan with guard is included as well. For added convenience, you'll find audio, USB, and FireWire ports built-in the front panel and a removable motherboard tray inside. Get all the features you need in the simple, high-quality Stealth XP.”

Now that gives a basic overview of what to expect but that just doesn’t do this case justice. First we will observe the packaging of the case which was pretty standard. This bad boy was packed in between two Styrofoam ends and of course, and every cat’s favorite, packing peanuts. This case is packaged with enough precaution to shield it from the usual ordinary “POSTAL” abuse.

While waiting for this case to arrive I did not know what to expect as I was unaware of what type of case it was going to be. When it arrived I was so excited I almost forgot to review the case. As my excited hands tore apart the packaging to reveal the case itself, I was in total awe. The pictures don't reveal anything extraordinary about the case but pictures don’t do this case any justice. The case itself is pretty unique looking, namely the drive covers and front bezel with its sleek black color the plastic bezel, which is truly black and not painted, and metal case are pretty close to each other in the color factor. Amazed at how close the paint on the panels actually came to the molded front bezel. First glance at this case screams “WOW.” The case specifications are far from small yet not quite a full server tower either.

The specifications:
7.5 [w] x 16 [h] x 18.75 [d] in
4 x 5.25 External Drive Bays
2 x 3.5 External Drive Bays
2 x 3.5 Internal Drive Bays
7 x Rear Expansion Slots
1 x 80mm Fan Included
2 x 80mm Fan Capacity
1 x 80mm Front
1 x 80mm Rear

The features of this case are:
Supports all Flex, Micro, Full ATX motherboards
Intel P4 and AMD XP/MP Compatible
Vented Side Panels
EMI Protective Shielding
True Color Plastic Front Bezel
Includes:
80mm Fan with Guard
2 x USB, mic, headphone, and 1x FireWire Ports Standard

Pics:

From a modding perspective the the front USB, FireWire, Headphone and Mic ports also seem to have enough room for a few more switches to fit within this area if they are the flush mounted type. This could come in handy when hiding Cold-Cathode and Fan switches which only add to this cases expandability and user friendly design.

Along with the convenience of front access always come the extra wires to run. ExoticPC and Ahanix kept the wires long enough so that the wires can be tucked away easily without obstructing airflow or giving the inside of the case that all too familiar spaghetti look. I for one am happy to see the extra wire length available.

With ease of use design in mind this case comes with a Slide out Motherboard tray for making those repairs, tweaks and changes that much easier. Definitely a nice feature to have on any case I might add. This case has the standard 4 external 5.25 bays, which will suit the average user’s needs. Most users will live well within the 4 external openings. I like the way the floppy mounts from behind the case giving it that flush look. We all know stealthing the CD ROMs is easy however doing a floppy can be cumbersome. This makes that a nice feature to have.

The case has a very sturdy feel. Made with quality KOBE steel this thing could take a hit with a Mack truck. Ahh just kidding there but it is very very sturdy. And doesn’t have that cheap feel you usually get in the $50 dollar and lower case market. Cooling capability out the gate is two 80mm fan locations strategically placed. The case comes with one of the fans. Purchase of a quality ball bearing fan for the rear to keep the airflow moving should be more than efficient. This case has all the right stuff for a sub $50 Dollar case as well as the few extras you usually don’t see.

If I had to change anything I would add some thumb screws for easier access to side panels. This case, with plenty of expandability and high-end features for a low price is a great buy for the average users and the over-clocker alike. This case isn’t the fanciest thing offered but it’s a good starting point for someone wanting to do their own modding work and make the case what they want it to be. I for one will use this case as my own personal case as I like it that much. Sometimes simpler really is better. This case is available from www.ExoticPC.com for $44.95.

Conclusion

Overall I feel this case is a great buy for anyone looking to get an extreme value and worth out of their money. It has a designer look and a bargain price tag, which will make any buyer happy. I would definitely recommend this case to anyone wanting to have a great sturdy case for little cash investment.

Pros:
- Price!
- Front USB, FireWire, Headphone and Mic jacks
- Great Design
- Plenty of expandability for future upgrades
- Full of room for cooling and the all important mods
- Slide out Motherboard tray

Cons:
- Thumbscrews would be nice

PimpRig Rating //
(7 pimp hats)