Antec has been producing computer components since 1986. They are well known by just about every "DIY" computer builder. It's not very common to see a rack mount case being sent out for review. When Antec asked if we would like to take a look at their Take3 rack mount offering we said why not, they can be modded too. I've actually seen a few modded rack mounts over the last couple of years.
 
When the Take 3 arrived at the door, and I proceeded to grab the box, it definitely got my attention. The Take 3 is a beefy case, weighing in at 25.7lbs. The second thing I noticed was the fact that it came packaged as most high end electronic equipment comes. Very sturdy cardboard is used with the case being suspended in foam end caps. This to the eye is no different than other cases, excluding the fact that the cardboard of the box is a higher grade.
 
Once opened up, you see the Take 3 is also bagged to keep things clean and scuff free. Upon removing the bag you will see the common traits of a rack mount case, the front handles and mounting brackets, and the long shallow design.
 
The rear of the Take 3 is similar to any standard case minus the PSU mounting. The Take 3's PSU is mounted in the front of the case so when mounted in a cabinet it will pull in fresh air. On the right you will see what goodies come with the Take 3. I/O plate, clear cover to close off the right side vents, bag of assorted screws, four rubber adhesive feet, and a set of keys.
Features:
- Drive Bays:
2 external 5.25" bay
1 external, 3 internal 3.5" bay
- 450W ATX12V v2.0 Power Supply
- Rubber grommets to absorb hard drive vibration.
- Power supply is isolated from the system to keep the system cooler.
- Front ports:
2 x USB2.0,
1 x Firewire (IEEE1394)
- Cooling system:
1 x 120mm TriCool
1 x 92mm TriCool
Specifications:
| Chasis |
3U |
| Dimension |
17"(W) x 20.5"(D) x 5.2"(H)
43.18(W) x 52.07(D) x 13.21(H) cm |
| Weight |
25.7lb/11.66kg |
| Color |
Black |
| Drive bays |
2 external 5.25" bay
1 external, 3 internal 3.5" bay |
| Motherboard |
Standard ATX (9.6"x 12") |
| Cooling system |
1 x 120mm TriCool
1 x 92mm TriCool |
| Power supply |
450W ATX12V v2.0 Power Supply
(model SP2-450SXR for US version;
SP2-450SXRP for Europe Version) |
| Expansion slots |
7 |
| Front ports |
2 x USB2.0,
1 x Firewire (IEEE1394) |
| Case design |
Quiet studio rack mount with rubber grommets to absorb hard drive vibration. Selectable fan speed allows choice of performance and quietness. Power supply is isolated from the system to keep the system cooler. |
| UCC 13# |
0-761345-94003-0 |
Quote From Antec:
Quiet computing comes to rack mounts Antec's Studio Series rack mount enclosures offer rock-solid, lights-out performance for professional audio recording and anyone requiring rack mount chassis ruggedness coupled with Antec's famous quietness. Available in 3U and 4U sizes, these cases feature special 450-Watt, whisper-quiet power supplies, plus 92mm and 120mm fans for cool, quiet operation. Cooling is further enhanced by a unique segregated air-flow design. Backed by Antec's legendary 3-year warranty on all parts and labor, our Studio Series lets you power up, tune in, and create! |
