Right, I'm planning a minor upgrade to this PC, namely new hdd (currently it has 2x80 + 1x40, going to keep one 80 and add a 500) and more RAM (currently 1G, putting in another 1G).
Since I have my new monitor and speakers, I figured I'd get a new case too (And maybe that Saitek Eclipse I've been promising myself.)
Despite being on a modders' forum, I'm not crazy about tearing up a case etc. also I haven't the time, the space or the skill so I'm looking for a nice looker out of the box.
I'm going for a sleek black understated monolith.
Current choices are:
Antec 300
Coolermaster Elite 335
Sharkoon Rebel 9
Sharkoon Rebel 9 with BFO fan
Xclio Propellor, with an even bigger BFO fan
With the Antec being current favourite.
I like the Antec but I want to install a card reader and it has no 3.5" bay. OTOH I really do like the placement of the usb, audio and power. Along the top edge so no need to bend to reach them.
Sharkoon Rebel has the 3.5 bay, but isn't quite as nice as the Antec, and the ports are lower down.
Coolermaster has a 3.5 bay, but I'd prefer it near the top.
The Xclio has 3.5 bays, but is a little too plain. I would probably fit an external power switch to it, rather than opening the door every time. Also, the usb ports are round the wrong side: http://www.futurelooks.com/xclio-pro...case-review/2/
I suspect the solution is to get the Antec and mod it to accept the card reader. That shouldn't be too difficult, even for me.
Have I missed anything else around the Ł30-Ł40 budget?