Antec Sonata IV hits the market for $199.95

Antec's quiet computer chassis lineup gets a new addition with the Sonata IV. The company claims this new Sonata has been redesigned from the ground-up, it includes USB 3.0 support and has a new front that promises better natural airflow.

The exterior of this 0.8mm SECC steel case looks rather boring in my opinion and the beige interior doesn't make it score any points either. The Sonata IV measures 550mm x 275mm x 515mm (H x W x D) and weighs 9.3kg, it has room for three 5.25" devices, four 3.5" HDDs, one 2.5" SSD and seven PCI expansion cards. It's compatible with ATX, Micro-ATX and Mini-ITX motherboards and features a front-mounted I/O panel with one USB 3.0 port, two USB 2.0 ports and the usual audio ports.

The main selling point of the Sonata IV is quiet computing, it's equipped with vibration-reducing grommets to minimize HDD noise and it has an airflow design that only uses mechanical exhaust. The case is bundled with a 620W PSU that features a quiet 120mm fan and a 120mm TriCool 3-speed switch control fan is mounted in the rear of the case. These two fans should create a natural flow of air that pulls in air via the intake vent right next to the HDD cage. You'll have to wait for some reviews to see if this keeps the HDDs at acceptable temperature levels.

The Antec Sonata IV has a MSRP of $199.95 and European e-tailers are currently selling it for as low as 140EUR.

In its 25th anniversary year, Antec, Inc., the global leader in high-performance computer components and accessories for the gaming, PC upgrade and Do-It-Yourself markets, today announced the new mid-tower Sonata IV -- the latest elegantly-silent addition to Antec's critically acclaimed Sonata line of Quiet Computing™ enclosures.

Re-designed from the ground-up, the Sonata IV builds on the Sonata legacy of Quiet Computing™ by combining the features and performance that enthusiasts demand with the highest standard of build quality. The Sonata IV is crafted to accommodate future component upgrades, with a USB 3.0 front panel port for faster data transmission and redesigned front bezel intake to maximize natural case airflow. This enclosure is also the first Sonata model to include an 80 PLUS® certified 620-watt power supply with whisper-quiet 120 mm double ball bearing low-noise fan, giving users a near-silent, functional solution for the home, office or corporate workspace.

The Sonata IV features one rear 120 mm TriCool™ 3-speed switch control exhaust fan for flexible control of fan speeds to balance cooling and quiet performance, and a built-in washable air filter for quick and easy cleaning. With eight drive bays (three external 5.25" drive bays, four internal 3.5" drive bays, and one internal 2.5" drive bay,) that utilize a hard drive bay rail system with vibration-absorbing silicone grommets, the Sonata IV boasts flexibility for a wide-range of builds and assures quiet performance.

"The original Sonata was the first ever chassis / power supply combination designed from the ground-up as a 'Quiet Computing' solution. The market response has been outstanding as it and its successors have repeatedly garnered top reviews and sales records," said Scott Richards, senior vice president of Antec. "The Sonata IV is a re-design that takes every attribute to a new level commensurate with today's Quiet Computing needs, and offers PC enthusiasts and system integrators the top-notch solution they've come to expect from Antec's Sonata line."

This Sonata IV supports Mini-ITX, microATX and Standard ATX motherboards, and is backed by Antec's Quality 3-Year (AQ3) Limited Warranty on parts and labor. The Sonata IV is available now for an estimated price of $199.95 through major retailers, e-tailers and distributors.