MODTHEBOX.COM - Canada's Premier Case Modding Source - Reviews - Cooler Master CM Media 281 HTPC Case Review

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Out of the box, my first impressions of the Cooler Master CM Media 281 HTPC Case were positive. The CM Media 281 is not the first foray into the home theatre market by Cooler Master. Some people may remember the ATC-600 released back in 2002. The ATC-600 was a mATX based chassis featuring a flip down Perspex glass front and a chassis constructed out of aluminum. The CM Media 281 features a much larger footprint measuring approximately 16.93" (W) x 7" (H) x 18.78" (D) and is very heavy at 201 lbs. The highlight for this particular enclosure is the ability to switch the chassis between a mid-tower or desktop configuration. Cooler Master ships the unit with 2 interchangeable front bezels to simplify this process.

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Cooler Master has addressed over heating issues found in most cases by maximizing air flow. The CM Media 281 deviates away from standard 60mm and 80mm fan intakes in favour of much larger 120mm fan mounts. Consumers ultimately can tailor their fan configuration to their own personal preference. The external shell of the case features a series of ventilation openings on the left, right and top panels. In each corner of the CM Media 281 are four metal flat feet which keep the case stationary when positioned on a flat surface. All feet are coloured black accented with silver highlights and soft padding on the bottom.

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For the scope of this review I was more interested in using the Cooler Master CM Media 281 as a HTPC desktop case rather than a mid-tower case. The manual documents an easy to follow 10 step process that allows novice and experienced users to complete the required configuration changes. The first step is to lay the case on its side and remove the feet that are located on the bottom. Once the feet have been removed, the next step is to detach the front bezel. This is accomplished by unlocking four plastic clips that are secured to the chassis.