Antec Introduces Whisper Quiet Advanced Case to its Sonata Line

[Darksaber]

Fremont, CA – May 16, 2007 – Antec, Inc., the leading global brand of high-performance computer components for the PC upgrade and Do-It-Yourself markets, has launched Sonata III. The case improves on Antec’s original Sonata, which initiated the Quiet Computing™ revolution.

Building on the original’s features, Sonata III’s internal drive bay trays are now fitted with soft silicone grommets to reduce and absorb hard drive vibrations. The cooling system, with one rear 120mm TriCool™ fan and an optional front-mount for a 120mm case fan, allows users to balance quiet computing with the precise cooling their system needs. And attractive new chassis vents make for improved circulation, channeling cool air silently throughout the case. Sonata III is also fitted with a built-in washable air filter to control dust build and keep internal temperatures down.


Sonata III comes equipped with Antec’s most environmentally-friendly power supply unit (PSU), EarthWatts 500W. The PSU is certified 80PLUS® requiring computer and server PSUs to operate at more than 80% efficiency at 20%, 50% or 100% of load, offering higher wattage compared to previous Sonata models. As a result, users will save money on their electricity bills, computer reliability and cooling costs. Another EarthWatts feature is Active Power Factor Correction (PFC) with power value up to 99% to reduce electrical waste, and universal input that will work with any power grid in the world.

High definition audio and AC ’97 audio in / audio out ports ensure clear sound and the USB and eSATA front mounted connectors ensure easy accessibility. eSATA is the new standard in high speed data transfer with up to four times higher rates than current USB transfer. The case supports up to standard ATX motherboards and features nine drive bays including three 5.25”, two 3.5” bays and four 3.5” internal bays. Sonata III features a metal double-hinged door for straightforward installation with rotation up to 225 degrees. Finally, in classic Sonata style, the case’s piano-black exterior complements any office or home environment.

“As system components evolve, demanding more power and ultimately producing more noise, the Sonata line continues to stay ahead of the curve in delivering essential Quiet Computing™ elements,” said Scott Richards, Antec’s Senior Vice President. “Leading edge features like eSATA interface, 80 Plus and HD audio mean Sonata III is ideal for users whose need for quiet computing is as vital as performance.”

Sonata III is the newest addition to Antec’s Sonata line, including Sonata Designer, Sonata Plus and Solo. It is available for an estimated street price of $149.95 through major retailers, e-tailers and distributors. It is backed by Antec’s Quality 3-Year Warranty. For additional product information and full technical specifications, please visit www.antec.com.

Source: Antec

[tkpenalty]

any side panel padding?

[Wile E]

Originally Posted by tkpenalty

any side panel padding?

Judging from the pics on Newegg, it doesn't appear so. You could always add your own tho. Dynamat = teh quiet. Or you could look at their Solo case, it has the padding, iirc.

[Darksaber]

Well expect a review hier on TPU very soon

[GJSNeptune]

I don't like how like it looks. Too shiny I guess.

[demonbrawn]

Yeah, i'm not a fan of the "piano" gloss finish or whatever they call it.

[Wile E]

Originally Posted by demonbrawn

Yeah, i'm not a fan of the "piano" gloss finish or whatever they call it.

You mean the "Fingerprint Black" finish? lol

[demonbrawn]

No, it was actually referred to as something like a "grand piano black polish" or something like that on other cases I've seen before. Either way, I don't like it that much. Especially if you're working with it a lot or your have to move it between home and college, you have to clean it more because fingerprints or smudges show up real easy.

[Wile E]

Originally Posted by demonbrawn

No, it was actually referred to as something like a "grand piano black polish" or something like that on other cases I've seen before.

It was a joke. I was referring to how easily they get fingerprints on them. lol

[WarEagleAU]

Very nice case, but the lack of a front mounted fan and only the 120mm rear exhaust fan kind of cautions me. For the price, Id expect it to come with at least two fans. Still looks nice. Something Id be looking to build in .

[FAXA]

I don't like the shiny-ness. I like the looks, but its a bugger to remove your fingerprints when you've just eaten something sticky like caramel.

[GJSNeptune]

Originally Posted by FAXA

I don't like the shiny-ness. I like the looks, but its a bugger to remove your fingerprints when you've just eaten something sticky like caramel.

Touch the faucet before the case.

[demonbrawn]

That would be a good idea before you touch... well, just about anything.

[tkpenalty]

u can only remove the left panel but... STUFF THE CABLES BEHIND THE 5'25 BAY!!! People go its gonna be a messy case but I say, improvise!

i realize why the left panel can only be removed; the right panel is redundant and can cause reasonance.

[breakfromyou]

"new"? we've had these cases for a few weeks now...and we NEVER have any in stock.

i like the esata port

its a lot like the Sonata II, just with an eSATA port and bigger sound dampening things for the hard drives, and a better power supply...

[sladesurfer]

Here's a video review http://www.3dgameman.com/content/view/8695/103/

[wazzledoozle]

Antec charges wayyy too much for their cases. (Except maybe the P180).