The Xbox 360 chassis that shows Microsoft how it's done, says Lian Li
Lian Li has today officially launched its Xbox 360 modding chassis, the PC-XB01.
HEXUS managed to take a sneak peak at the Xbox 360 replacement chassis back at CeBIT 2008, and we went away impressed.
The chassis, pictured below, requires a little DIY know-how from the user to transfer the Xbox 360's innards to its all-aluminium housing. Once complete, Lian Li promises that heat and noise will no longer be a dampening factor to your Xbox 360 experience.
The anodised, brushed aluminium enclosure measures 160mm x 250mm x 415mm (W, D, H), and has room for all the internal Xbox 360 components. There's a single 120mm (1,500rpm) fan to provide ample airflow, and the DVD drive has been relocated and encased in foam to reduce the spinning noise we're all familiar with.
We doubt it'll completely quieten your spinning disks, but it should, we hope, no longer challenge your Dyson to the crown of noisiest appliance.
It clearly isn't as easy-on-the-eye as Microsoft's standard chassis, but Lian Li has added a selection of nice touches. The rounded edges provide a touch of sophistication, and the Xbox 360 USB ports are hidden behind a smart-looking dust cover. As with the Microsoft enclosure, the Lian Li PC-XB01 can be placed both horizontally and vertically.
For those who want the quietest console of them all, there's a set of water-cooling pipe holes for you to add your own liquid-cooling equipment. Sadly, there's no room inside for the Xbox 360 power brick, but that's a minor issue.
There is, of course, one obvious downside to be aware of; using the Lian Li PC-XB01 will void your Xbox 360's warranty. Though Lian Li claims "you are less likely to have overheating", it's something to be aware of.
The PC-XB01 will reach retail stores later this month, priced at a beefy MSRP of $149. Shop around, however, and you'll find some retailers offering it for as low as £59. Interested? Take a look at our hands-on preview from CeBIT 2008:
Official press release: Lian Li launches PC-XB01: the Xbox 360® Chassis replacement
Official product page: Lian-Li.com
Installation guide: http://www.lian-li.com/v2/en/microsite6/xb01user01.html
