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Product:
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VoyeurMods Replacement Side and Top Panels |
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Price:
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Side Panel w/ Window: $57 (CAN) / $42.95 (U.S)
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Price:
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Top Panel w/ Window: $49 (CAN) / $36.95 (U.S)
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Supplied By:
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VoyeurMods
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Author:
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Hi-TEK
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Date:
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June 19th, 2003
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Rating:
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MODTHEBOX would like to thank Brian from VoyeurMods
and for sending the VoyeurMods Replacement Panels for review.
Introduction:
Case modification is an art form that requires a certain level of skill as well as access to an
assortment of available tools. There are myriad of projects available on the Internet in which the process for
completing a case mod has been detailed step by step in a work log. While the fascination with these
projects leads a few people to create their own, there is a small segment of the community who has
embraced the available pre-modification accessories available from several online vendors. A
pre-modification can range from pre-built fan controllers, LCD devices, front port extenders and
windowed panels. These add-on accessories simplify the process of changing the appearance of a case
from stock form to something unique. Today in the MTB Labs, we will be evaluating new windowed
replacement panels from VoyeurMods suited for users of Antec, Aspire, Cheiftec, Chenming and Enermax
cases.
Specifications:
The VoyeurMods Replacement Panels are offered in 7 different colour combinations which include Black,
Silver, Purple, Green, Red, Blue and Yellow. Consumers have the option of selecting a replacement top
panel or side panel in stock form or with 25 different window options. These panels are designed to fit
one specific type of case chassis. Here are some specifications taken from the VoyeurMods website:
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VoyeurMods Replacement Side and Top Panels - Key Specifications:
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| VoyeurMods Replacement Side and Top Panels: Distributed by VoyeurMods |
| Panel Dimensions: 19.5 inches (H) x 17 inches (W) |
| Material: Light Weight Heavy Duty Aluminum |
| Available in 7 different colour options |
| Selection of 25 different window options |
| Suitable for Antec, Aspire, Cheiftec, Chenming and Enermax cases |
| Secured with black window moulding and locking strap |
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Click image for larger view
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Click image for larger view
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The VoyeurMods Replacement Side and Top Panels arrived in a double-walled corrugated cardboard box with
no manufacturers logos or production specifications. Packing inside the box was excellent with both
panels sealed with protective bubble wrap and an assortment of polystyrene peanuts.
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Click image for larger view
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Click image for larger view
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Out of the box, both panels are constructed of heavy duty light weight aluminum and measure approximately
19.5 inches (H) x 17 inches (W). A laser cut acrylic window has been centered in the middle of each
panel surrounded by black window molding and locking strap. The top panel included the addition of
two 80mm exhaust blow holes that were perfectly cut with no noticeable visual damage.
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Click image for larger view
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Click image for larger view
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One of the benefits of the VoyeurMods Replacement Side and Top Panels is that package comes pre-assembled
with the black window moulding and locking strap already installed. Consumers who hate the process of
assembling the window molding and locking strap from various window kits will benefit from this purchase.
In most DIY kits, the side panel had to be placed on a flat non-skid surface and flipped on its opposite
side in order to channel the window molding. With the VoyeurMods Replacement Side and Top Panels; the
window molding has been perfectly contoured around the base of the window cut out. VoyeurMods has also
aligned the window molding so that it sits flush against the surface of the aluminum panel with no gaps.
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Click image for larger view
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Click image for larger view
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One important step that also covered in most DIY window kits is the process of measuring a side panel
for the proper window alignment. In the past, you had to be careful and mark off various panel
obstructions including the ventilation holes and case handles to minimize mistakes. A closer look of
the included side panel reveals that the window molding has been carefully installed in order avoid
any obstructions and fit perfectly when secured to a case chassis. I was able to secure both panels
using 4-40 x 1" screws for the top panel and regular 6-32 screws for the side panel on a Chieftec
Chieftec Matrix Mid-Tower Case with no problems.
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Conclusion:
The VoyeurMods Replacement Side and Top Panels are definitely a welcome additional to the every growing
pre-modification market. Most of the assemble work has already ready been completed and no additional
tools are required to easily replace existing panels on any Antec, Aspire, Cheiftec, Chenming or
Enermax case. The biggest benefit of this package is the availability of 7 different colour selections
which match perfectly. Consumers will also appreciate the wide variety of different window designs which
also include the option of fan hole mounts. Both panels arrived in perfect condition and the windows and
locking strap were professionally installed with no issues. The only negative aspect of this product is
the associated price for each replacement panel. The purchase price of each panel added together with
the shipping charges is almost equal to the cost of the case itself. Obviously, VoyeurMods is targeting
a specific sector of the market in which these panels will offer a nice alternative for those individuals
who lack the skill or necessary tools to complete these modifications on their own. Overall, I'm rating
all these replacement panels an 8.5 out of 10
and would only recommend these products for individuals who want simple case modification for their
stock case. If you have any questions regarding this review be sure to visit the
VoyeurMods website for more information or
discuss them in our forums.
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Pros:
- Easy to install case panels available in 7 different colours
- Over 25 different window designs available
- Improves on the aesthetics for most cases
- Perfect alternative for the novice case modder
- Panels are pre-assembled with windows and black window moulding
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Cons:
- Advanced DIY type users will prefer to manufacturer their own windows
- Price for both pieces equal to the price of the case itself
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