Lian Li is one of the most well known, high-end case manufacturers on the market. They started back in 1983 making slot assemblies and have grown into an ISO2001 certified factory. This same factory assembles all of their components ranging from mobile racks to server chassis. The PC60 mid-tower series is by far one of their most popular models. We've seen multiple anodized colors, front bezels and windows added to it; but what manufacturer hasn't done this with a popular case. I mean anyone you can think of has offered multiple side panels and colors for a popular case they've designed; most have offered different front bezels as time goes on too. One thing that Lian Li has done and can claim the credit for is the aquarium panel; no other manufacturer can take this away from them.

However, when I first saw it, I thought it was the cheesiest thing I'd ever seen. I couldn't believe that Lian Li sunk so low as to throw a bunch of plastic fish in an oversized window and expected them to sell. When they contacted me about reviewing the case, I couldn't resist. This is the first time Lian Li sent us a case and my first time to play around with one for a long period of time. I was half wondering if it would look like the picture I had in my head or if the panel would actually be something to behold. This case falls under the "Pre-Mod" category meaning it has already had some thought put into it. Someone has sat down and designed this case to be somewhat unique; to have some flair that sets it apart from the rest of the crowd. I'm all for pre-mod cases; there had to be pioneers that started case modding. It wasn't started by some manufacturer or a guy wanting to make a buck. It was started by pure imagination and a very proud geek. This geek loved his computer and wanted to show his appreciation for it. To this geek: I love you man. You started a fantastic new hobby for many to enjoy.

Those of you who are anti-premod might have a right to be snooty towards them but should also take the time to realize that the advent of premods has brought hundreds of thousands of people into this hobby. Truth is, premods played a major part in getting this hobby where it is. The manufacturers are obviously paying attention to what the modder is looking for and striving to bring us the coveted "new idea." Lian Li has certainly taken a small chance to bring us this case and I'll be letting you know if it's worth the extra $$$ or if it should have been thought out better. Some companies are so anxious to be the first on the block to release their "new idea" that they forget small details and sometimes large details. Some are worse and steal the designs that the innovative manufacturer has brought us. Try to pay homage to those that provide ideas instead of to the thief that steals an idea and sells a crap product for less money. I can think of quite a few on the market right now that fit the bill but won't mention names. Point is, if you're looking to get a case with an aquarium panel, make it Lian Li, at least until their patent runs out:)