The PC-C33 case from LIAN LI lets you build an HTPC that won't look out of place when put with the rest of your components. The case uses the most outstanding material as well as the most advanced technical manufacture in order to provide modern art high-quality goods. Lian Li put a lot of effect on the external finishing, all the external parts in hair-line brush anodized aluminum to create the metallic look, with diamond cut detail to give it a finishing touch. The PC-C33 is designed for today's user who want to access more media files, which have the highest quality, and silky look, with more internal space for power user!
DesignDesigned for the living room, Lian Li designer has designed the PC-C33 size to match with standard audio equipment, but there are still room for two standard size 5.25" devices and four of 3.5" HDDs. This case works with ATX/M-ATX motherboard, and has space for a standard ATX power supply.
FeatureHandcrafted with high quality aluminum sheet material, with two line of diamond cut, the PC-C33 is a simple, minimalism design art work. The case has modularized device cages, and those cages can fit standard hardware component. It’s very simple to use and easy to get the hardware ready for this case.
Silent PerformanceLian Li’s PC-C33 features anti-vibration kit on the chassis, to absorb the noise. Like the EMI spring on the top cover, it absorbs the vibration, and the top cover is still easy to remove and close. To reduce the vibration from HDD, Lian Li included HDD anti-vibration kit which is using the rubber ring to absorb the vibration to reduce the noise. Four high quality aluminum case stands not only look good, they also have rubber pads to absorb the vibration, and prevent scratch to the equipment under.
Thermal SolutionAluminum can remove heat four times faster than steel, therefore PC-C33's aluminum alloy chassis can help system to stay in cooler temperature, to extend the components’ lifecycle. There are two 80mm exhaust fans at the rear of the chassis and both of them have fan guard fitted to protect user's hand. A 140mm fan beside HDD cage running at 1200RPM brings a good volume of air through the cage to keep the HDDs temperature down.
User Friendly DesignThe convenient front I/O panel enables easy access to two USB 2.0, one IEEE 1394 and two audio ports.
Pros: Large - easily accommodates Intel ATX MB Very nice finish 4 internal drive bays, 2 external (with one 3.5"/5" adapter) Slide-off top panel - secured by two knurled thumb screws Rubber mounts for drives Side vents for fans and ventilation - can stack stuff on top Power supply can be mounted to draw in only outside air
Cons: Power LED connector not right for Intel MB - simple to modify Poor documentation for front panel audio connections to MB External drive blanks vibrate against the front panel Fans are quiet, but not silent
Overall Review: This is a very high quality case, with no sharp edges inside. The reinforcing bar that runs horizontally across the case is easily removed for MB installation. Lots of spare screws and even a little plastic case to store them in. Can be rack mounted, and includes two handles that can be mounted on the front sides of the case. The drive bays are easily removed without a screwdriver. Easily accommodates tall CPU cooling units. I applied a sheet of soundproofing foam made for PC use to the front of the top lid - some improvement in the already low sound level. This case would really blend in well with black home theater gear, but it's also a great desktop unit.