Lian Li TYR PC-X500 Chassis

 

The X500 definitely scores big in the style department. It also rates very highly in build quality and finish. Without a doubt, the chassis lives up to the usual Lian Li standards. Having said that, there are a few gripes I have. Lian Li should have used either braided or black coloured cable for the IO panel. as they have used grey coloured cables, they stick out like a sore thumb. Also, I cannot see why Lian Li did not provide at least a couple of stealth CD/DVD bezels with the chassis, especially considering the price of the chassis. If they had then the overall finish of the chassis would have been perfect.

 

When I reviewed the X2000, the X500’s big brother, it drew some criticism for only having two 5.25″ bays, well the same holds true with the X500. So, if you didn’t like this on the X2000, you will also be disappointed by it with the X500. I personally wouldn’t find this a problem, as I only have one DVD -RW installed. It does limit your options, and you should be aware of this before considering purchasing an X500. Another small gripe is the placement of the fan controller, which means that you have to remove the front panel and dust filter to access it. This is only a minor niggle, especially if you don’t change fan speeds often.

 

Assembling the PC inside the X500 was really easy and very straight forward. Most people should be able to assemble without having to consult the manual, which is always a bonus. Everything needed for the build was provided by Lian Li, and there were plenty of spare screws left to replace lost items, should you ever need them.

 

All in all, I would highly recommend the X500 to anyone who wants a high quality chassis, and who doesn’t mind paying extra for the attention to detail and quality Lian Li have given. When combined with a smart AV setup, or a matching destop setup, the chassis looks superb. Although I have a couple of gripes with the chassis, these are far outweighed by the positive aspects. Price will be an issue to some, but for those who know quality and don’t mind paying a premium, the X500 is definitely a winner. I am not sure about the chassis being the ‘Ultimate gaming/HTPC’ choice, as Lian Li have claimed, but it does come pretty close. The recommended retail price of the TYR PC-X500 is around £250, but can be bought for around £200 from some e-tailers. 

 

 

+ Excellent build quality
+ Attention to detail and finish
+ Stylish design
+ Easy to build PC inside
+ Good airflow with supplied fans
+ Dust filter
+ Weight
+ Anodised internally and externally

The Mediocre
* Price limits the appeal

The Bad
– Internal cables don’t tie in with overall style
– Fan controller placement

 

 

 

 

Our thanks go to A-One Distribution and Lian Li for providing the sample used for this review.

 

 

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