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Case, Power Supply, Fan Reviews
  Product:     Cooler Master Wave Master TAC-T01-BK Aluminum Case  
  Price:     $235 (CAN) / $179 (U.S)
  Supplied By:     Cooler Master
  Author:     Hi-TEK
  Date:     January 28th, 2004
  Rating:     star star star star star star star star star

Cooler Master Wave Master TAC-T01-BK Aluminum Case
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Cooler Master Wave Master TAC-T01-BK Aluminum Case
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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.

Cooler Master Wave Master TAC-T01-BK Aluminum Case
Click image for larger view
Cooler Master Wave Master TAC-T01-BK Aluminum Case
Click image for larger view
 

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.

Cooler Master Wave Master TAC-T01-BK Aluminum Case
Click image for larger view
Cooler Master Wave Master TAC-T01-BK Aluminum Case
Click image for larger view
 
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.
 
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.

MTB Award

Thumbs Up! 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
Thumbs Down! Cons:
  • No removable drive cages
  • Small area of unfiltered airflow behind the front bezel

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