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We take the issue of noise very seriously at KitGuru and this is why we have built a special home brew system as a reference point when we test noise levels of various components. Why do this? Well this means we can eliminate secondary noise pollution in the test room and concentrate on components we are testing. It also brings us slightly closer to industry standards, such as DIN 45635.
Today to test the chassis we have taken it into our acoustics room environment and have set our Digital Sound Level Noise Decibel Meter Style 2 one meter away from the case. The room rates as 21-23dBa before powering on the system (air conditioning unit in the far corner of the room causes this).
We removed the additional fans from the side panel to measure a ‘out of the box’ scenario.
As this can be a little confusing for people, here are various dBa ratings in with real world situations to help describe the various levels.
KitGuru noise guide
10dBA – Normal Breathing/Rustling Leaves
20-25dBA – Whisper
30dBA – High Quality Computer fan
40dBA – A Bubbling Brook, or a Refridgerator
50dBA – Normal Conversation
60dBA – Laughter
70dBA – Vacuum Cleaner or Hairdryer
80dBA – City Traffic or a Garbage Disposal
90dBA – Motorcycle or Lawnmower
100dBA – MP3 player at maximum output
110dBA – Orchestra
120dBA – Front row rock concert/Jet Engine
130dBA – Threshold of Pain
140dBA – Military Jet takeoff/Gunshot (close range)
160dBA – Instant Perforation of eardrum
We have replaced the graphics card with a Sapphire HD5670 Ultimate edition.
A rating below 34 dBA is a fantastic result. The case isn't silent, but it is in the lower 30% of all samples we have reviewed to date. The Enermax fans are quality products and it shows with this specific test.
Wow, this is really pretty for such a low price. the fans add about 15 quid to the value, or more. dont often get two fans on a case this size. how does it compare to the thermaltake armor A60?
When did they start making cases? first ive heard of it. This looks not bad. I like the fan idea at the front. cant see too many of the Kitguru audience finding it a selling point, but their fans are excellent, on a noise and CFM level anyway.
I like the way you mix up the reviews here with top end and budget models. Really makes it useful for us peasants who cant afford the wicked tech.
I like the look of this, shall check it out based on this review. If we ever get it near here.
Everyone seems to just be trying everything lately ! corsair used to be memory, now they do PSU’s, SSDs, Cases. Enermax used to be power supplies, then fans, now cases. Same with OCZ.
Not knocking it, and I suppose it is needed to remain profitable in todays climate, it just seems so confusing that all makers are in so many areas.
I wouldnt buy this case, I dont like lighted fans, and while you can turn it off, I think I would spend a little more for something with better materials.
Ideal for my 14 year old son. thanks for the review, never knew they made cases. any idea of a release date?
It should be available in most locations, very soon. if not already.
The video is helpful as the images dont do the fan justice. I like the red LED strip colors. looks great. seems to be a well designed product. What the hell is that graphics card cooler you used !? thats massive, must be two inches bigger than the PCB under it.!
That is a rather cool budget case, have to say.
This case is very good. Purchased it last week. Everything fits and the material is very nice and glossy. Love the free fans and the removable dust protectors. Fans can even pop out for cleaning.Case is not too flashy, was done just right by Enermax.
I have the Enermax VOLCANUS as well. Perfect for my son who likes to play games.