Published: June 11, 2006 | Source: Specialtech | Author: James Napier

OrigenAE X10 HTPC Case

Appearance

Probably one of the most important factors when purchasing a HTPC case is the appearance. People want a case that will seamlessly match any existing audio equipment, and will not look out of place in their living room.

The X10 has a very simplistic design, which should not clash with any other audio/video components in your HTPC setup. The entire case is constructed entirely out of brushed aluminium and has a very high quality feel and finish.

OrigenAE have made every effort to make sure the lid on the X10 does not vibrate and also blocks out as much noise as possible. The underside of the lid is sealed with a thin layer of sponge, which also makes the removal of the lid smoother.

The quality of craftsmanship that has gone into the X10 is clear just by taking a look at the join between the lid and base, it’s simply flawless.

Hidden behind an aluminium plate at the front of the case are 2x USB Ports, 1x Firewire, Line In/Out ports and space for a floppy disk drive. It’s surprising how many HTPC case manufacturers neglect to provide a space for a floppy disk drive, which despite its fading uses, is still often used for SATA/RAID drivers and BIOS flashing.

A feature seen on almost all HTPC cases is an LCD display, which I am please to say OrigenAE have not neglected to include. However, OrigenAE have actually gone one step further, and rather than using LCD technology, have used VFD (Vacuum fluorescent display). VFD is known for being brighter, and clearer than its LCD counterpart.