i7 X58 µATX Build Log >stealth<

To support the micro build I obviously need a micro case. I wanted to do a small form factor since my PC is in an armoire right next to where I work. I got tired of having a loud, towering, glowing, dust magnet taking up a lot of space with all the distracting bling. This is also why I wanted quiet.
The PC DesignLabs Qmicra was selected for its airflow, appearance and modding capability. I've had my eye on the Qmicra since the first version.


I chose the black powder coat with a blue Bulgin vandal switch, blue HDD light and sound deadening already installed. I probably didn't need the sound dampening since the case is so open and I'm not sure how much effect it will have?



One cool feature of this case is it allows you to mount the PSU in either orientation. This may come in handy if I add a blow hole later.





This case can accommodate up to seven 120mm fans, four HDDs and three 5.25 bays, just not all at once. Actually, with its design the combinations are endless. There is also a fair amount of space for water cooling for a small form factor case.

Total damage including shipping = $274.85

Mobo: EVGA X-58 SLI Micro 121-BL-E756-TR
I chose this since it was IMO, the best selection for price vs performance vs features. I almost went with the Asus Rampage II since I've had great experience with Asus mobos on previous builds but it is $50 more expensive and I've admired EVGA stuff for quite some time. It's the Classified's baby brother.

GPU: EVGA GTX 260 Core 216
Same reason for choice as mobo. I also feel major components from the same manufacturer will play nicely together.

CPU: Intel i7 920
What else? Price, performance, stupid OC capabilities.

RAM: Corsair Corsair TR3X6G1600C8D Dominator
I've had no complaints with Corsair in previous builds and yet another price vs performance consideration. I've read it's a decent overclocker.

HDD: Western Digital 640GB Caviar Black
Again, experience with WD products and they have a good exchange program if they fail within the warranty period. Not the fastest but the blacks have a five year warranty. I really wanted to go with a solid state but they're still too expensive. The speed and quiet were tempting but ye old spinning disk has a significant price advantage.