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Product:
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Ahanix D.vine 4 Home Theater Series PC Case |
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Price:
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$320 (CAN) / $250 (U.S)
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Supplied By:
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Ahanix
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Author:
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Mantis
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Date:
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August 28th, 2004
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Rating:
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MODTHEBOX would like to thank Ginger from Ahanix
for providing the D.vine 4 Home Theater Series PC Case for review.
Introduction:
Earlier standard computer enclosures were geared to provide an economical solution paired with a very
traditional design for a rather customary set of computing environments. One clear drawback to the older
solutions was the obvious lack of emphasis put on style and function. The introduction of mainstream mid
and full tower varieties brought a new level of design and ease of use quickly allowing manufactures to
innovate with their own features. To compliment the shift towards Home Theatre integration, a new series
of HTPC style enclosures have now been introduced into the consumer market. Today in the MTB Labs, we
will be evaluating the D.vine 4 Home Theater Series PC Case, an enclosure designed for HTPC enthusiasts.
Specifications:
The D.vine 4 Home Theater Series PC Case is one of seven home theater style cases offered on the Ahanix
website. Consumers have the option of both silver and black color configurations. Additional options
include an integrated VFD and Silent 350W Power Supply for a complete package. The Ahanix D.vine 4 Home
Theater Series PC is a desktop style case that supports both ATX and mATX motherboard formats along with
standard ATX power supplies. Here are some of the case specifications taken directly from the Ahanix
website:
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Ahanix D.vine 4 Home Theater Series PC Case - Key Specifications:
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| Ahanix D.vine 4 Home Theater Series PC Case: Distributed by Ahanix |
| Case Dimensions: 17.06" (W) x 7" (H) x 15.93" (D) |
| Weight: 16.6 lbs |
| Drive Bays: 5 (2 x 5.25" external, 1 x 5.25" internal 2 x 3.5" internal) |
| Expansion Slots: 7 |
| Chassis: Aluminum |
| PSU Dimension: Standard ATX 350W 5.88" (W) x 3.38" (H) x 6.32" (D) |
| Form Factors: mATX or Full ATX motherboards |
| Fans: 2 (2 x 60mm rear exhaust) |
| Universal ATX I/O Shield included |
| Special Features: Front mounted VFD, dual front USB and Firewire |
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Click image for larger view
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Click image for larger view
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The Ahanix D.vine 4 Home Theater Series PC Case arrived in a standard cardboard box packaging with the
D.vine name marked clearly on all sides. Inside, a set of polystyrene blocks holds the case in place and
protects against any damage or shifting during shipping, a plastic cover protects the unit from scratches
and moisture. Included with the Ahanix D.vine 4 Home Theater Series PC Case is a one-page manual outlining
proper VFD installation procedures.
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Click image for larger view
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Out of the box, my initial impressions of the Ahanix D.vine 4 Home Theater Series PC Case were very positive.
Measuring approximately 17.06" (W) x 7" (H) x 15.93" (D) with a weight of 16 pounds. The Ahanix D.vine 4
Home Theater Series PC Case takes on a standard desktop style format and can support standard ATX and mATX
components for a wide variety of possible configurations. The included review model is black in color
and includes the optional VFD and 300W Silent Power supply. The overall appearance of the Ahanix D.vine 4
Home Theater Series PC Case is very sleek with a beautiful brushed aluminum bezel exposing only a few
key features for easy access and information. A boldly printed D.vine logo graces the top left hand portion
of the front bezel and is the only form of branding viewable on the entire chassis.
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Click image for larger view
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Click image for larger view
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Liquid Crystal Displays or Vacuum Fluorescent Displays are an excellent source of obtaining information
at a glance and when bundled with the appropriate software can display a plethora of useful statistics
regarding media or the machines performance. A recessed mounting area has been implemented into the center
portion of the Ahanix D.vine 4 Home Theater Series PC Case bezel which can accommodate an optional 2x16
VFD or LCD. The rear portion of the mount has been tinted with a thin plastic in order to blend the unit
into the overall design when not in use. Additional functions include space for a hard drive activity
LED or IR remote receiver. Two well sized recessed power and reset buttons have been neatly integrated
into the lower left portion of the bezel.
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