Antec Sonata Elite Super Mini Case Review

Posted by: David Mitchelson () on: 02/11/2009 11:15 PM [ Print | 0 comment(s) ]

Packaging and Closer Look
The Sonata Elite comes packaged in a similar fashion to most Antec cases – in a large box with a high resolution print of the case itself on the box. All the features and details can be clearly seen on the box.

Inside the box the case itself is enclosed in a white protective cover and secured with some polystyrene fitments. The packaging is sturdy, I would doubt very much that this case could be damaged easily inside such packaging.

First impressions of the case are very good. The Elite looks like an object of great quality. You can immediately tell that this case is premium and something not to be confused with a tacky, cheap alternative. The high gloss finish on the side and top panels gleam and reflect any light whilst the front is a hard plastic. This front panel opens to discover the power controls along with the optical drives of your choice. In the middle are two USB ports, an e-SATA slot, and the audio jack for headphones. With the Elite there is the option to close this front panel door to secure operation.

Moving to the side, there is a new addition to the Sonata Elite. Antec have attached a mesh panel to the side to allow draft to come in to cool any 3.5" devices and this little mesh panel can act as a outlet for dispersing any unwanted heat. A well thought through idea. Especially as you can remove the exterior panel and free it of any dust that is collected there.

To the rear of the case there is nothing unusual, it follows the standard layout of most ATX cases. The one thing you might notice is that there is a section of perforated metal near the expansion slots. We will talk more about this later.