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Product:
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Spire Pininfarina SP-ATX-PALU/U Case Review |
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Price:
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$144 (CDN) / $130 (U.S)
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Supplied By:
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Spire Corporation
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Author:
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clsGrinder
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Date:
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September 28th, 2006
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Rating:
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MODTHEBOX would like to thank Rolf and Peter from Spire Corporation
for sending the Spire Pininfarina SP-ATX-PALU/U Case for review.
Introduction:
Many years of working with PC hardware has taught me many lessons, some of which occur when the world of design meets
the world of functionality. The end result can be either a masterpiece, or a train wreck. Spire, a company who’s
catalogue includes a large selection of CPU coolers and PC accessories, has commissioned the Pininfarina group to design
it’s flagship mid sized ATX tower case. Famous for designing exotic European sports cars, this is a very unique project
for both Spire and Pininfarina. Can form and function meet in the middle? Read on, as MTB evaluates the Spire Pininfarina
Mid-Tower Case.
Specifications:
The Spire Pininfarina is a mid sized ATX tower case designed by the Pininfarina group. Pininfarina has a long and distinguished
history of designing some breathtaking high end sports cars. For more info, please visit the Pininfarina site at
http://www.pininfarina.com. Cool and sleek Italian design
features aside, the case also features an Aluminum Alloy Bezel, SECC chassis, front USB/FireWire/Sound connectors,
removable HDD cage, and a unique removable main board tray. Here are the features and specifications right from the
Spire Corporation website:
| Model |
Spire Pininfarina SP-ATX-PALU/U Case
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| Dimensions |
495 x 200 x 450 mm / 19.5 x 7.9 x 17.7 in. (L x W x H) |
| Weight |
13.5 Kg / 30 lbs |
| Material |
Aluminum Alloy Bezel (6.0mm) / SECC Steel Chassis (1.0mm)
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| Motherboards |
ATX, eATX, micro ATX, mini ATX |
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Colour |
Black, Ocean Blue, Sky Blue and Silver
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| Drive Bays |
9 (3 x 5.25" external, 2 x 3.5" external and 4 x 3.5" internal) |
| Cooling Fans |
3 x 80mm fans (2 included), 1 x 120mm fan (1 included), 1 x 120 side firing fan duct
(no fan included)
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| Expansion Slots
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7 |
| Front Access
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Dual USB 2.0, IEEE 1394 Firewire, Audio & Speaker ports |
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Click image for larger view
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Click image for larger view
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The Spire Pininfarina arrived in the biggest mid sized ATX tower box I’ve ever seen. The thick black cardboard box is
printed black with product pictures on all sides. Product features and color selection are also seen clearly on the
packaging.
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Click image for larger view
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Click image for larger view
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With the box open, we see the standard "face up" orientation of the empty ATX case. A warning label tells you to "not
remove the case by pulling on the front door". Wise words as you could damage the door if you pull out using the front
bezel as a grip.
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Click image for larger view
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Click image for larger view
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Thick adhesive vinyl is stuck to the aluminum to ensure mint condition of the finish upon delivery. The aluminum surrounds
the case from front to back, and so to does the protective vinyl film.
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