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Product:
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Cooler Master Wave Master TAC-T01-BK Aluminum Case |
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Price:
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$235 (CAN) / $179 (U.S)
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Supplied By:
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Cooler Master
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Author:
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Hi-TEK
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Date:
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January 28th, 2004
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Rating:
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Click image for larger view
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Click image for larger view
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The Wave Master TAC-T01-BK Aluminum Case includes standard motherboard header pins for HD LED, Power switch,
Reset switch, Speaker, USB, Firewire and Audio which can be easily connected to a motherboard. Cooler
Master has included an assorted bag of mounting screws, motherboard standoffs, case badge, fan filter
bracket and two sets of instructions.
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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 standout features of the Wave Master TAC-T01-BK is the inclusion of a slide out motherboard
tray option. The slide out motherboard tray simplifies the process of installing and removing components
and is a must for any system builder.
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Click image for larger view
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Click image for larger view
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All the system components were conveniently assembled outside the case using the slide out motherboard
tray. To test out this case, I assembled a series of spare components which include an ASUS PC4C800 Deluxe
Motherboard, Pentium 4 2.4B CPU with a Thermalright SLK947U HSF and a pair of 256MB OCZ PC3200 EL DDR 333
RAM modules.
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Conclusion:
Cooler Master has done an excellent job in its latest attempt at revitalizing its popular product line
with the introduction of the Wave Master TAC-T01-BK Aluminum Case. The Wave Master TAC-T01-BK follows
all the guidelines seen in previous Cooler Master models and adds a new level of functionality and
design. The attention to detail and craftsmanship of the wavy front bezel is first rate in true Cooler
Master style. The exterior paint job on the left, right and top panels is one of the best I have seen
on any case reviewed in the MTB Labs. Add in great options such as the removable slide out motherboard
tray, stealth port panel, tool-less key entry, support for large PSU's, and you have a great high-end
computer case. During my evaluation of the Wave Master TAC-T01-BK Aluminum Case, I didn't find any
negative issues with the case and can only offer a few suggestions. It would be a nice feature add-on
if the drive cages followed the same route as the removable motherboard tray in order to simplify installation
and maintenance. There is also a small amount of unfiltered airflow allowed into the case by a series of
concealed holes located behind the front bezel which might cause issues with dust after extended use.
Overall, I was very impressed with the Wave Master TAC-T01-BK Aluminum Case and award MTB's Seal of
Approval with a final rating of 9 out of 10.
If you have any questions regarding this review be sure to visit the
Cooler Master website for more information or
discuss them in our forums.
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Pros:
- Excellent aluminum construction
- Beautiful external paint job
- Aesthetically pleasing design
- Removable slide out motherboard tray
- Tool-less key entry options
- Stealth port panel
- Spacious interior design
- Price
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Cons:
- No removable drive cages
- Small area of unfiltered airflow behind the front bezel
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