Silverstone LC16M HTPC Case Review

Silverstone’s LC16M case achieves what most enthusiasts have been looking for: a home theater PC that operates like an appliance. The aluminum front has an elite look that can be proudly displayed along other elite gear, and the front panel controls work flawlessly. The VFD display software is tuned for home theater applications, and automatically provides information of the current task, which always gets a “wow” from my guests.

The layout of the LC16M is superb. I want my home theater equipment to look like a home theater appliance: I absolutely hate HTPC cases that shift the DVD drive to the left or right. You have to choose the right components to fit in this case, but modern equipment should give you little trouble. The only minor areas for improvement would be that the volume knob feels slightly wobbly, and that the enclosure is not completely aluminum.

	REPORT CARD : Silverstone LC16M Home Theater PC Case category rating comments Quality 5 The quality of the LC16M is superb. All knobs and buttons are made of anodized aluminum, and the steel case is built like a tank. My only wish is for a completely aluminum enclosure. Innovation 5 Finally, a HTPC case with integrated remote sensor, volume knob and centered DVD drive! The internal layout accommodates a lot of equipment while maintaining symmetry. Performance 5 The case is extremely quiet. I have 4 hard drives in the LC16M and cannot hear them. Airflow is very good, expels a lot of heat. Installation 4 Integrating your hardware with the VFD and front buttons require a lot more steps and isn’t very straightforward. Getting beyond that, the removable drive cages are well designed and make drive upgrades very easy, especially considering that the case will become cramped very quickly. Value 5 An average price of $250 can be a little daunting for the average video nut, but this case is meant for those who are serious about their home theater PCs. Although it doesn’t come with a power supply, this case a value considering the integrated VFD, remote and front panel controls, which cost over $150 if purchased separately (and wouldn’t look OEM). Other elite cases cost nearly $300, and don’t include the features the LC16M has. FINAL VERDICT: 5 out of 5 stars