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Best case that looks like a A/V component...

B

bocamojo

Senior member
Looking to build a really cool, high end Home Theater PC, but want it to look like an Audio/Video component, instead of a PC. I've looked at several smaller cases that feature Flex ATX, Micro ATX, etc., but they all still look too much like PC's for this project. I need this box to have at least 1 AGP slot, and 1 PCI slot (don't mind if it needs a riser card to horizontally reposition the card). I would like the DVD-ROM to blend in with the case (like the DVD players do) if possible, and want to have a VFD or LCD somewhere on the front of the case (or at least a precut hole for me to mount one), so I can program it to display messages relating to the current mode (like Scrolling song info for MP3s, DVD Title, Stereo Mode, like Dolby 5.1, etc.) and a place for an integrated RF or IR controller in the front of the case. Don't want to see a floppy at all... Any ideas? I know a lot of companies are starting to make plans to roll out TiVo looking HPTV devices that have integrated chips, and embedded OS, but until then, I would like to make my own. Problem is finding the right case to build around.
 
I'm not sure if that's the kind of case you are looking for. I've been on the same quest too. Basically the only motheboard that truly allows for something that small is a NLX motherboard.. unfortunately, you're limited big time to a Pentium II or III class processor. Plus the cases and motherboards are in short supply. There is a small cube like computer that's really small (10x8x6") or so. I'll look around for it and post a link to it if I find it.

Good luck.. you'll need it.

Other places that have nice cases are www.colorcase.com and www.colorcases.com. I picked up a case from colorcases.com (directly.. he's in the Chicago area) and the cases are nice.

 
It would be really cool if you went to a garage sale, picked up an old CD player, hollowed it out, and made that your case. That gives me a good idea for a mod. You should check out the "cases and cooling" forum, they do this kind of stuff. I think the cube case that WooDaddy is talking about is from Shuttle. You can find it at Newegg.
 
ECS make a range of BookPC barebones, which not only look nice in your HiFi rack, but also contain mainboards with TV-out and six channel audio right away.

regards, Peter
 
Thanks for all the links / ideas! Pariah and I seem to be on the same wavelength... I'd seen the moddin.net review and the callisto... Hadn't seen the first one though from PSI Video Online... That looks like a good starting point for my project. I really like the look of the case, and the way the CD is integated, just like a real DVD or CD player. Looks like I'll have to do some modding though... Cut a hole for an LCD, add some LED's for show. Probably going to need to find some stereo looking labels too.... But this case is definitely worthy... and I really like the hidden floppy... brilliant! Only down side was there's only 1 HD mounting bracket, and I wanted to setup Raid 0... have to figure out another place to mount the second HD. Thanks again for the responses! I really appreciate it!
 
Thanks people. The cases on the links you have posted are excellent. I have been looking for such cases for a long time.

I even considered buying a cheapo Technics stereo receiver (around 80), and modding that.

Now the only question is, does anyone make similar looking cases that don't cost as much as an A/V component!!!
Doesn't really matter if it is steel or aluminium.
 
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