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SilverStone GD04 HTPC Case Review
Author: Jim Manis
Published: Wednesday, December 09, 2009
Conclusion
The main purpose behind a HTPC case is to blend in with other A/V equipment and the SilverStone GD04 does an excellent job of this. We felt the looks were just right for the intended purpose by making the media PC look like a high-end DVD or Blu-ray player.
Proper cooling is important for any HTPC build not only to keep the components cool but to ensure they last a long time. Silverstone has done a great job in making sure the GD04 gets ample airflow by using 3x 1200rpm dimpled fans to help move air across the case. The built in grills are also raised slightly so air can pass even if the case is up against something. Each fan comes with a fine mesh filter to capture dirt and dust but will require partial system disassembly to clean.
The layout of the SilverStone GD04 is very nice and features a dedicated expansion slot for external sound boards and up to 3 hard drive locations. The opening for the optical drive is integrated into the front panel and gives the entire case a very professional appearance.
Combine this case with a wireless keyboard/mouse combo and you can now surf and do all of your normal PC tasks from the comfort of your couch. The case doesn't come with remotes or the media options found on other models, but Windows Media Center compliant remotes can be found from 20 dollars.
And now the ever popular list of good things and bad things.
Proper cooling is important for any HTPC build not only to keep the components cool but to ensure they last a long time. Silverstone has done a great job in making sure the GD04 gets ample airflow by using 3x 1200rpm dimpled fans to help move air across the case. The built in grills are also raised slightly so air can pass even if the case is up against something. Each fan comes with a fine mesh filter to capture dirt and dust but will require partial system disassembly to clean.
The layout of the SilverStone GD04 is very nice and features a dedicated expansion slot for external sound boards and up to 3 hard drive locations. The opening for the optical drive is integrated into the front panel and gives the entire case a very professional appearance.
Combine this case with a wireless keyboard/mouse combo and you can now surf and do all of your normal PC tasks from the comfort of your couch. The case doesn't come with remotes or the media options found on other models, but Windows Media Center compliant remotes can be found from 20 dollars.
And now the ever popular list of good things and bad things.
Good Things
Small size fits the HTPC format well.
Excellent airflow arrangement, with quality fans.
Great build quality Solid riveted chassis.
Nice drive bay option.
Separate air inlet and filter for PSU.
Excellent airflow arrangement, with quality fans.
Great build quality Solid riveted chassis.
Nice drive bay option.
Separate air inlet and filter for PSU.
Bad Things
Low clearance for CPU cooler.
Rubber feet in back. Instead of much nicer front feet.
Not All Optical drives will work.
Cramped confines make hardware changes more difficult.
Rubber feet in back. Instead of much nicer front feet.
Not All Optical drives will work.
Cramped confines make hardware changes more difficult.
Ninjalane Rating
SilverStone GD04 HTPC Case Review
Furious 5 of 5
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We would like to thank SilverStone for making this review possible.
