BIG POWER, small package - case???

[Picatavi]

My goal is to build a powerful but QUIET rig in a conservative case. No fancy lights, see-through panels, etc. I’m still in the early stages of design, but I’m leaning toward something like this:

$1000+ range, (excluding monitor, keyboard, mouse, speakers)
Intel Core 2 Quad 9400
3 GB RAM
1 SATA HDD
2 SATA optical drives
Video card: probably ATI 4850 or Nvidia 9800
No overclocking
Vista Home Premium 32-bit OEM
General use: Photoshop, surfing, Roxio Easy Media Creator 10, gaming

I suspect this system is overkill, but I’m tired of having to abandon my computer while it’s running a virus scan, for example. Also, I think this processor runs a little cooler than some older models. While I don’t do any gaming, my son does occasionally; I’d like him to be able to play pretty much anything available.

I’ve purposely left out a lot of details, as I’m still doing research. For now, I’m focusing on the case. I love the looks of the Antec P182 (black), but it’s GIGANTIC, much bigger than I need (or want). I've done a lot of research and can't believe how hard it is to find a simple, quiet, understated black mid- or mini-tower.

I’m leaning toward the Antec NSK4480B but I’m concerned about the 380W power supply. Is it sufficient to power something like the processor and graphics card I’ve noted? Should I buy it anyway and just replace the PSU with a 500W?

I don’t care that this case doesn’t have headphone or mic jacks in the front. My Klipsch Promedia 5.1 speakers come with a control module which has those jacks.

I appreciate any advice. -Rich

[shatteredv3]

Uh buying a case with a weak power supply and then buying an additional power supply seems to be an incredible waste. You could just buy a case and power supply separate. The case is always a matter of personal preference though. I'd go with this one if you want something plain with decent airflow and a power supply.

Antec Sonata III 500 Black ATX Mid Tower Computer Case 500W Power Supply
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16811129024

[Picatavi]

Originally Posted by shatteredv3 Uh buying a case with a weak power supply and then buying an additional power supply seems to be an incredible waste. You could just buy a case and power supply separate. The case is always a matter of personal preference though. I'd go with this one if you want something plain with decent airflow and a power supply. Antec Sonata III 500 Black ATX Mid Tower Computer Case 500W Power Supply http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16811129024

Thanks for the quick reply. I considered the Sonata III, but I'm just not crazy about the styling. Also, when I priced it out, the 4480 ($82 - amazon) and a 500W PSU on newegg prices out about the same. Plus I could probably sell the psu on ebay.

Anyway, I guess what you're saying is that the 380w is too weak for my build, right?

[mattaggie]

I dont think having an extra 380w power supply is a waste, unless you just cant affod it. Its always a good idea to have an extra one on hand to test against one that may not be working right.

here is the link to a power supply calculator:
http://www.extreme.outervision.com/p...ulatorlite.jsp

Hopefully one of the more experienced members will comment on how many watts you need.

[Picatavi]

Originally Posted by mattaggie I dont think having an extra 380w power supply is a waste, unless you just cant affod it. Its always a good idea to have an extra one on hand to test against one that may not be working right. here is the link to a power supply calculator: http://www.extreme.outervision.com/p...ulatorlite.jsp Hopefully one of the more experienced members will comment on how many watts you need.

Very helpful link; thanks! Hanging onto a spare isn't a bad idea. I'm not on a tight budget.

[not important]

I don't like cases with doors (I've had two and I managed to break the doors on both). I've been using Cooler Master cases lately and I've grown to like them. Very sturdy and attractive cases.