Spotswood Custom Computer Cases

Final Words

Okay, so this isn't as thorough as our usual case review, but this case isn't built for functionality: it's built for style. Each case is custom made to order. These cases are ways to entomb your system in a work of art - and you'll really want to leave it there once you get it in, as breaking it down and building it up are not quick, easy, or fun tasks. This is a long-term solution that isn't meant to be constantly upgraded and tweaked.

We would not recommend these cases for the average enthusiast. They are not a general solution for any normal system build. These cases are for the true hobbyist who really wants something that looks different from a normal computer case. As a drummer, I see the appeal of the L style, but I'm not really impressed with the C style. I'm sure others who are into differently appointed cylindrical objects might have an affinity for the C style, but either way these system are something you will buy for the form over the function.

That said they do function. They'll get the job done, but are probably more suited to the affordable borderline enthusiast system rather than the all-out highest performance possible options. A good-sized power supply, only a few drives, and a graphics card that isn't going to heat your house in the winter are a good fit with this case. Spotswood's cases will require a little more TLC to get them set up just the way you want them. Of course, some people get off on that. The more work you put into a thing the more pride you can take in its display. (I used to build model airplanes as well.)

Then comes the price. The sale price is currently $465 on the base 24" C and L models. With all the fans, the color options, extra mounting hardware, etc. the case we have for this review as configured would be $707 (or $617 for the C style case equivalent). While this is quite steep, this is not unreasonable for a custom case like this. If you want to do all the work yourself, you could spend $250 to $300 on a cheap kick drum and start building, but that's going to be quite a lot of work and is very likely more difficult than most of us are willing to take on.

As the industry continues to develop, and as adoption of computers starts to saturate, there will need to be different twists on the theme in order to inspire further adoption of the technology. We don't all have server closets, and while notebook adoption is growing, there is a lot to be said for having a home server for storing all your music, movies, and video games. Getting technology into homes isn't always about what the technology can do for us but whether it will fit into our life style enough for us to give it a chance.

Honestly, if you want a computer mounted inside a drum, buying it from Spotswood is the way to go. Round cases are certainly interesting and out of the ordinary, but definitely not for everyone. The internals could be a bit easier to work with, but it is a whole lot easier than building your own round case. Cooling and airflow might be an issue, and we recommend the use of water-cooling if possible. If looks are important and you just want a round case or a case that looks like a kick drum, then the extra hassle and work will probably not be a deterrent. For everyone else, the ease of use and modularity of traditional case designs are far superior to these round cases that bring nothing extra to the table for the majority of enthusiast PC builders and owners.