Thermaltake Kandalf LCS Case (VD4000)

Manufacturer: Thermaltake Technology
Supplied by: Thermaltake Technology
Price: $279

by Jeremy Lawrence (8/24/06)

 

Introduction

With the continuously increasing amounts of power used throughout the computing world, it is a virtual arms race trying to keep the main components cool.  Sure, there are a slew of water cooling solutions out there.  However, one trend that seems predominant is that size is directly relational to the amount of cooling capacity a unit has.  Thermaltake seizes on this as well with the Kandalf LCS.  By integrating a water cooling system into a sleek and stylish looking case, anyone can make excellent cooling power a reality.  Today, thanks to the kind folks over at Thermaltake, we have an opportunity to take a look at the Kandalf LCS. 

Specifications

Case:

• Case Type: Super Tower

• Construction: Aluminum

• Net Weight: Roughly 48 pounds!

• Dimensions: 537 mm x 223 mm x 637 mm

• Drive Bays: 9 x 5.25”, 2 front accessible 3.5”, 6 internal 3.5”

• Power Supply: Not Included

• Front Ports: 2 x USB2.0, headphones, microphone and Firewire

• Fans: 1x120mm rear exhaust, 1x90mm rear exhaust, expandable to fit 1 more top mounted 90mm

Water Cooler

• Water Block: Standard TT Copper / Acrylic with Blue LED

• Application: Intel LGA775, Socket 478, AMD K8

• Radiator: 407mm x 120mm x 35mm

• Fans: 3x120mm 1300 rpm

• Pump: P500 12v DC, quoted at 500L/hr

• Reservoir: 350cc easy refill

• Tubing: Industrial Grade 3/8” Transparent UV

The Case

As you can see by the specs, this case has a lot – and I do mean A LOT – to offer.  Because there is so much crammed into this beast, the case is definitely a noticeable addition to any room.  Standing at almost two feet tall and over two feet deep, it demands attention.  The silver brushed aluminum finish provides a very pleasing aesthetic look.  The black mesh screen on the front bezel hides three 120mm fans behind a massive radiator.  One of these fans (as you’ll see later) emanates a gorgeous blue glow to add even more pizzazz.  The acrylic window on the side panel is simple, yet elegant, and shows off plenty of the interior features.  The front ports – or top ports as they’re situated here – are hidden under a flat closable panel.  All of this attention to detail provides a smooth, clean line and really catches the eye.  Now that I've teased you into a frenzy, let's have a closer look with some pictures.
 

NEXT

Pg 1 - Introduction
Pg 2 - Exterior
Pg 3 - Interior
Pg 4 - Installation and Performance
Pg 5 - Conclusion