Zalman HD160XT HTPC Enclosure Review

Final Thoughts and Conclusions

The Zalman HD160XP is a premium HTPC enclosure that not only met but exceeded my expectations.  I assumed the HD160XT would basically be an HD160 HTPC enclosure with an LCD inserted in place of the VFD — I was wrong.  The HD160XT incorporates many new features and improvements over the original HD160 and takes the elegant audiophile styling to a new, higher level.  Throw in the highly functional suite of multimedia software and you have a powerful, full featured HTPC that is relatively easy to setup.

The overall build quality, fit-and-finish, and attention to detail throughout the HD160XT are excellent.  The 7′ LCD display, front panel control functions and the bundled M-Play software performed flawlessly.  If you are planning to build a high-end HTPC, then the Zalman HD160XT deserves to be at the top of your list.

Of course a premium product typically demands a premium price and the HD160XT is not inexpensive.  The current street prices (April 2007) for the Zalman HD160XT HTPC enclosure is $579.99 USD.  However, you get what you pay for!

Strengths:

·         Beautiful, elegant audiophile styling

·         Excellent build quality and attention to details

·         Integrated 7′ LCD with touch screen capabilities

·         Very good ventilation and cooling (four exhaust fans included)

·         Quiet operation when used with fan speed control software

·         Easy installation of ODD and HDD cages

·         Vibration isolation mounts for up to five HDDs

·         Front mounted controls and I/O connectors

·         Bundled software, card reader, and MCE remote control

·         Detailed documentation – clearly written and illustrated

Weaknesses:

·         No air filters on case vent openings

For outstanding features, performance, and style; the Zalman HD160XT HTPC enclosure is awarded the coveted PCPerspective Editor’s Choice award!

Zalman HD160Xt HTPC Enclosure

I would like to thank Zalman for sending us the HD160XT enclosure to review — thank you!  Zalman’s full line of products are available from our friends at SharkaComputers.com or you can use our price checking engine to find additional resellers and the best prices for anything else you may want to buy! 

And if you have any questions or comments about the article, or would like to see what others have to say about the HD160XT HTPC enclosure, just click into this thread in our forums to join in the discussion!