Conclusions

After reviewing numerous cases here at ExtremeMHz, I've come to find that you do not always get what you see.  While the case may look great in pictures, it may disappoint you once you get to play with it first hand.  Whether it's poor build quality or poor use of features, there is always something that was overlooked or compromised.  That is certainly not the case with this innovative new chassis from Sytrin Corporation.  Its overall build quality is superb and there were certainly no compromises here.  From its high quality cooling unit and power supply to its very impressive LCD display, the Nextherm ICS 8200 is in a class of its own. 

The chassis was also designed to make installation a breeze.  It has a complete tool-free system and I was particularly impressed with the method used for the PCI slots and front panel removal.  To avoid any issues running this system, Sytrin opted for what is one of the best power supply units I've seen bundled with a case.  It is fully sleeved and provides enough power to run the power-hungry thermoelectric cooler as well as all your components. 

The LCD will impress the second you power it on and the analog dial adds to its overall great looks.  The display offers the capability of not only measuring the temperature of the components within, but the ambient temperature, which certainly plays a role in its overall cooling performance.  The built-in AirCon unit works very well and helps circulate cooler air inside the chassis, which ultimately results in slightly lower temperatures than your standard case fan is able to provide.  In fact, pair this system with a high performance CPU cooler and you'll be quite pleased with the results, especially for an air-cooled system.

Obviously, there is always something that can be improved.  In this case, although it does have a high quality 90mm Sunon fan for exhaust, I would like to see a future model utilizing 120mm fans for both exhaust as well as for the AirCon unit itself.  This will not only provide substantially better airflow, but will also keep noise levels to the bare minimum.  Considering its overall appealing design, the Green/Amber activity LEDs also have to go.  This is minor and can be easily fixed with a simple mod, but certainly some I personally hate to see in such a highly innovative chassis.  Fortunately though, they can are hidden thanks to the front hinged door panel, which leads me to the only other minor wish I would like.  The activity LEDs should be visible, even when the door panel is closed.  Perhaps something similar to the excellent Koolance PC3-720 we recently reviewed here.

Unfortunately, this kind of quality comes at a price.  The Nextherm ICS 8200 is not on the market yet, but will be available to the markets in May 2005.  Its MSRP will be $360USD.  Certainly not cheap, but then again, I can honestly say that the case and all the components, including the power supply are of the highest quality.  However, despite its rather hefty price tag, its excellent build quality, features and performance earns our highest recommendation and "Extreme Excellence Award".

More information on the Sytrin Nextherm ICS 8200 can be found on the Sytrin Corporation website.

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