Introduction
Antec have a reputation for making very solid cases, bundled with their equally solid power supplies. While the “SX” series cases were very competent, Antec continued to advance, and modified the design. Their current flagship, the Performance Plus 1080AMG SOHO File Server case, is actually not all that much different from the old SXs. It does however; resolve many of the problems people had with their previous line of cases.
Packaging:
As opposed to brown and purple cardboard box of the SXs, the new PLUS1080AMG comes in glossed full colour packaging. While this makes absolutely no difference to the case itself, it’s nice to know that Antec has taken a step upwards in terms of caring for the case. Inside the box, you’ll find a small brochure which passes for a manual. I always thought it was rather nifty for something like a case to come with a manual, as most other manufacturers don’t do this. You also get the mandatory power cable. Inside the case are a little brown box of screws and a set of keys for both the “door” and the lockable side panel. The key is the same for both, so you’re essentially getting four of the same key (not that I’m complaining or anything). Also included is the new case badge, which looks considerably better than the old purple/yellow/red one. It's blue. : )
Initial Impressions:
Upon unwrapping the case (hereon referred to as the 1080, for simplicity’s sake), the quality of it amazed me. The paint and finish on the case is quality work. Touching a case with bare hands usually results in fingerprints, and it was no different with this one. What happened afterwards, however, is the extra mile which sets the 1080 apart from other cases; the fingerprints faded away right in front of my eyes.
When I bought the case, I didn’t even notice that it had a side blowhole, so when I spotted the honeycomb vent in the side panel, it came as quite the pleasant surprise. So did the filter at the front of the case, something I had to make myself with my last Antec case, an SX830. Front panel USB and Firewire connectors are also new, and of course, the weird new front bezel shape which makes the 1080 look as if it’s not rectangular, even though it is. 4 LEDs instead of 2 was another new “feature” by Antec, and although I’m still only using two at the moment, it may still serve to be useful. Flip to page 2...
|
