Before I start on this I want to clarify a few things up front. This review is being done after the case was actually modded (two cases are shown in the review). The case was being used as the base of a mod that had a deadline. To make the deadline I was unable to do the review first as I normally would. This review shows several pictures from its modded form but rest assured, the review is based solely on the case as if it was untouched, the mods performed to the case weather structural or cosmetic have absolutely no affect on the rating the Aluminus receives.
As with any product from Ultra Products, it always comes in a nice looking packaging. Listed on the packaging are all the features and specifications of the Aluminus case.
Here you can see the foam padding at the top and bottom of the Aluminus case. Protection is always a must when shipping products. The case is also contained in a clear plastic bag to keep the paint from getting scratched or scuffed.
Below you can see a couple of different angles of the case. Sorry my camera doesn't like dark colored cases to well. Looking at the following pictures you can definitely tell that the Aluminus case is a little more unique than a few of the older cases designed off of this look.
The Aluminus has the full louvered front panel which is missing one feature that the Dragon Series case had. The front I/O ports have been removed from the panel and relocated to a drive bay mount which is a plus in my book. Looking at the right picture you will see the bright shinny aluminum finish the Ultra Aluminus offers on the inside.
The rear of the Aluminus is pretty standard, you have your PCI slots along with the I/O plate, rear 120mm fan mount and PSU mount. On the inside of the front door you gain access to your 5.25" and 3.5" external bays. Also tucked behind the door is the Power button, Reset button, and Lock to secure the case.
Above are a couple of pictures showing the high gloss finish the Aluminus has. This as you can tell is not a extremely high gloss finish, but is by far some of the best of the cases produced today. A little light hand polishing and this case will shine like no other :).
Top left shows the left side windows panel of the Aluminus, as you can see its got cooling your hardware in mind with the lower vent for GPU cooling and the upper vent w/snorkel to direct fresh air into your CPU. The top right shows the case feet which can be kept under the case or turned sideways for more stability.
Here we have the front USB/Firewire/Audio ports that are designed to utilize one of the 5.25" bays. Now as I stated earlier, I was glad to see no front ports being visible, but in the case of having them behind the door, they might not be 100% feasible for some. I know a lot of people that do like to plug things into the front of the case. I personally just don't care for cords hanging off the front of my case.
And of course last but not least are the hardware and literature sent with it. Top left of the picture shows the 5.25" drive rails, lower left shows the keys, and misc screws and standoffs, bottom right is the registration card, and top right is the manual. All this comes nicely packed in a box that is secured to the inside of the case so it doesn't beat around in it while in shipment.
