A-Top XPlode Gladiator Case

Manufacturer: A-Top Technology
Supplied by: A-Top Technology
Street Price: $89

by Dean Barker (4/09/2005)

Introduction

Premodded cases as we have seen, are more abundant than ever.  We all like modding our cases to some degree but we all have different tastes and desires in what basic chassis design to build (or not to build) upon.  A-Top Technology again recognizes this and seeks to add another choice for us to ponder over.  Their latest unit, the Gladiator, picks up where the A-Top XPlode leaves off.  It does this by layering in more flash and features while keeping itself on the south side of the $100 mark.  With this said, A-Top continues to broaden its appeal to those looking for something a little different without sacrificing quality.  Today, we have a closer look at the A-Top Gladiator thanks to the good people over at A-Top Technology.  As we always do, let's start with the basic specs.

Specifications:

• Observed Dimensions: 508 x 203 x 432mm

• Observed Weight: 9.2 kg (w/PSU)

• Construction: Steel

• Drive Bays: Four exposed 5.25" bays
                  Two exposed 3.5" bays
                  Five hidden 3.5" bays

• Cooling: Front 80mm blue LED fan (included) with fan mounts for 80, 90 or 120mm fan; rear fan mounting area can accept 80, 90 or 120mm fan; HDD rack fan mounts that can accept 80 or 90mm fan

• Front Mounted Ports: USB 2.0 x 2, Line out/Mic

• Available Colors: Standard colors - Silver and Black / Special order custom paint job available in unlimited colors

• Expansion slots: Seven

• Motherboard Type: ATX, Micro ATX

• Power Supply: 450w X-Blade signature LED PSU

• Optional PSU: 500, 550, 600 watts ATX 1.3 or BTX 2.0 versions available

• Window: Yes - grill type screen, not acrylic pane

The Box

The A-Top Gladiator is offered in two basic color schemes, black/silver and silver/silver.  As with other A-Top cases, these are not your only choices.  A-Top offers custom color selection for special orders.  If the custom paint jobs are as good as the one on our review unit, you will have zero reason to complain.  The quality of the paint job is excellent - a 'shaver' case if ever there was one.

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