Looking for a small, quiet case for core i7 build

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14 Oct 2008
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36
Hey guys,

Just thought I would ask around for some ideas on a good case for my upcomming build. I'm looking for a case that has a small form (unlike the majority of behemoths these days) that is quiet but will be cool enough to handle some moderate overclocking. I dont really like "gaming" style cases as I plan to use this in my recording studio, my previous cases have been Antecs Sonata II and III.
The rough build is:

Core i7 920
Asus x58 deluxe
Corsair 650w psu
GTX 260
1x 1tb HD
1x 150GB SAS Drive
(I'll only be adding another 2 HD's max in the future)

All the cases I've been looking at seem too big for me (compared the the Sonata's anyway) such as the Antec 300 and the Coolermaster 690. My budget is also flexible if needs be to get the right one but £50-£100 would be perfect :D

Cheers!
 
I have a P182SE. I think they're great, but not small. They're a mid tower for sure, and weigh a fair bit with all components in, but that's quality for you..! The sides are triple layered to keep noise out etc etc. Mine really has been fantastic, but the front door is a bit flimsy, however i've never had a problem with that. As long as you don't throw it around it's fine.

Overall it's a very subtle, well-built, quiet and refined case. I lost 15 deg from my cpu temp when changing to it also (from Akasa Zen). Check out the P182 builds in case subforum for loads of pics. Mine's in there I think.

Oh, and cable management is ace, there are some tidy jobs in the p182 thread. Only changes I plan to make is to add some noctua fans to replace the antec ones. Not much in it but i'd like something quieter at mid/high rpm.

EDIT: Here's what mine looks like to give you some idea of size:

100_1518.jpg


100_1522.jpg


I should probably make it clear that the version I have (the SE) is not readily available anymore. It differs from the normal as it has a mirror external finish and powdercoated internals, as well as an led spot light on the inside. The normal gun metal version is very nice, though i'd be tempted to powder coat the inside as it can look great. However, it's wasted if you're never inside the case!

As the above poster said, Lian-Li are always a good bet too. Great quality stuff for the price.
 
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Looks like a beautiful case in those pics! Would love to get one but I'm looking for something a little bit smaller if it's possible?? I've got limited space at the desk!!
 
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