Introduction

HTPC cases are getting pretty popular. I have one, which is a pretty nice case, but the cooling is so limited that I wouldn't consider putting my main rig in it. As far as features, it is pretty plain Jane, it mainly looks like it belongs with other home theater components, although there were some optional multimedia features that it didn't come with.

So, how far does a case have to go to be considered a "multimedia" case? I guess that besides housing a computer, it should have special features that support watching videos and movies, listening to music, and viewing photos, as does pretty much anything else that is "multimedia". I would think that a real HTPC case should have a remote of some kind, or be able to be controlled in some way by a universal remote. It also should have enough cooling for the PC enthusiast to install a powerful rig inside, as it would be pretty silly for the overclocker, gamer, or someone that just wants the latest and greatest, to have to build a separate computer to satisfy those personal needs.

GM Corporation, LTD, from Seoul, Korea, a company that has been specializing in cases for over a decade, has produced an HTPC case called the Noblesse K-1 Muse, advertised as "Multimedia all-in-one PC case". Will this case have enough features to earn the title "multimedia case", along with satisfying the needs of the enthusiast? We'll see.

Specifications:

Dimensions ( W x D x H ) Chassis 200 x 510 x 440mm (Appx 7.9" x 20" x 17")
Color Silver / Black
Multi Port USB 2.0 x 4Port, Audio + MIC port+1394
Thermometer LCD Display
Form Factor ATX
Drive Bay 5.25" x 2 / 3.5" x 4 ( Int)
Expansion Slots 7 Slots
M/B Size Full ATX
Weight Net : 9.16Kg
Gross : 10.80Kg
Cooling CAG 1.1
Fan Front : 140mm X 1pcs
Rear : 120mm x 1pcs
Remote Control IrDA Remocon, 16*2 VFD Display
Fan Control Front&Rear Fan Control (Noise Control)

Features:

All In One Multimedia PC Case
Support up to full ATX
Provide multi operation software through the iMEDIAN
The best solution for multimedia such as TV, Music, Movie and photo
User-friendly IrDA remote controller

Front panel function
Provide system information and EQ visualization in 16 X 2 VFD display
Volume control and mute function
Multi Memory Card Reader(9 in 1)
System condition LCD display
Hot key, Navigation jog button in front panel
Music and Movie control by play control button

Excellent Thermal Solutions
140mm cooling fan in the front
120mm cooling fan in the rear
Fan controller
Thermometer in the LCD display
Air duct and PCI express air hole in the side panel, meets with Intel CAG 1.1

Easy Installation
Screwless 3.5" and 5.25" drivebays(support ODD and HDD sliding rails)
Front panel esay removing design

Safe Assembly
Folded edge for each part

USB 2.0 FPIO Support
Support USB 2.0 X 4, audio and microphone port FPIO
Support IEEE1394 X 1

Security
Padlock

Packaging

The K-1 Muse is packaged in this very attractive box. The graphics give a hint of some of the external features of the case. The case inside is very well protected with the largest foam ends I have seen, and would likely withstand being dropped from several feet without being damaged.