Thermaltake Soprano Middle Tower

Performance:

Although this case may look attractive and offer numerous tool-less features, only installing some computer components would tell its true greatness. One of our main items we were interested in closely examining when constructing a system inside of the Thermaltake Soprano was the tool-less 3.5" hard drive mounts. Unlike the 5.25" mounts, which can be seen on such cases as the NZXT Nemesis Elite, the 3.5" tool-less mounting method we have never seen used prior to receiving the Soprano. This tool-less lock basically works by inserting a 3.5" HDD into an available drive bay, once the drive is in place set a lock device on the side of the drive bay, followed by turning the lock clockwise. Everything other than the odd 3.5" locking device installation went according to plan, with no other obstacles facing us with the case. The overall workroom was very large and nice. Fan filters were also very helpful in decreasing the dust buildup.

Conclusion:

Yet again, Thermaltake has done a marvelous job with the addition of the Soprano to their line of computer cases. If you have read any other case reviews at Phoronix, we are very austere when it comes to features inside of a computer case. Thermaltake has done a fine job with the tool-less 5.25" drives, 3.5" drives, and expansion slots. Some of the other notable features included the fabulous front bezel, not only the design, but also the locking mechanism and the swinging door setup to access the front fan filter. The only flaws we found were the possible obstruction with the wave design door and drives that don't conform to the normal size boundaries, and difference in locks between the side panel and front bezel. Overall, the Thermaltake Soprano is a great computer chassis.

Pros:

· Build quality
· Tool-less features (PCI, 3.5", 5.25")
· X type side panel window
· Fan filters
· Front bezel
· Attractive appearance

Cons:

· Possible obstructions with external 5.25" drives and front bezel
· Difference in locks
· Expensive (~ $85 USD)