Cheaper alternatives to Shuttle XPC?

[bluemax]

As much as I'd LOVE a Shuttle mini-system, I just can't quite seem to justify the $450-550 Canadian price tag (depending on the model) considering that with a plain old tower, you could get a whole (good) SYSTEM including CPU, RAM, HD, etc for the same price.

So what's the alternative? I know that CASPER II mini-case is pretty tempting if its PSU fan isn't too loud. It doesn't have the liquid-cooling solution of the Shuttle XPC but that's not really necessary for a P4 processor now is it?
CASPER II
Obvious benefit, it's got 4 full-sized card slots and just about any uATX mobo will fit in there.
Downfall? It's a bit larger and not quite as quiet, not quite the same "coolness factor".

But what are some other alternatives?

 

[bluemax]

bump...

 

[PCMarine]

Sure the XPC's look cool, but as you said, they might not be worth it. Their only usefullness is if you are using it in a very small space, like a car or possibly a college dorm.

For the rest of us, mini/mid towers will work just fine.

 

[SuperSix]

SOltek is getting ready to release an XPC line.. May want to look up info on them...

 

[chizow]

Its very difficult to find Soltek State-side, but Tom's gets them no prob. Are they based out of Europe?

Chiz

 

[SUOrangeman]

Check out the forums at www.sudhian.com. There is a area dedicates to "Small Form Factor PCs."

-SUO