Antec Sonata Proto Mid Tower Computer Case Review

By Joe Evans

Antec Sonata Proto Introduction

Antec offers several models in the Sonata family of cases which have been very
popular with enthusiasts and casual builders alike. Long respected in the business of building cases, Antec is proud to offer one of the newest Sonata models in a mid tower configuration carrying the name of Sonata Proto. When Antec asked if we would be interested in giving it a look, we couldn’t resist accepting.

ANTEC PROTO BOX

The Proto is styled only in black and is on the value end of the Sonata line retailing for $69.99 shipped. As mentioned, it’s a mid tower so it has a modest footprint and is relatively light for its size. It came packaged securely in a box with foam cushions and wrapped in a plastic bag to protect it from damage during transit.

ANTEC PROTO UNWRAPPED

On the exterior, it looks much like the Sonata Elite and Sonata III 500 with a few minor differences. The design is simple yet attractive.

ANTEC PROTO SIDE ANGLE

Antec lists the features and specifications as follows:

  • Quiet Computing functionality reduces system noise and delivers maximal quiet operation
  • Modernist black exterior finish
  • Built-in washable air filter for quick and easy cleaning
  • 9 drive bays:
  • External 3 x 5.25″
  • External 2 x 3.5″
  • Internal 4 x 3.5″
  • 7 expansion slots
  • Advanced cooling system:
    • 1 rear 120mm TwoCool two-speed switch conULol exhaust fan
    • 1 middle (optional) 120mm fan
  • Built-in washable air filter
  • Front mounted I/O ports:
    • 2 x USB 2.0
    • Audio In and Out (AC’97 and HDA compatible)
  • 0.8mm cold rolled steel for durability
  • Power supply not included
  • Compatible motherboards: Mini-ITX, microATX, Standard ATX
  • Unit dimensions:
    • 16.7″ (H) x 8.1″ (W) x 18.2″ (D)
    • 425mm (H) x 206mm (W) x 463mm (D)
  • Package dimensions:
    • 19.8″ (H) x 10.5″ (W) x 21.5″ (D)
    • 502mm (H) x 267mm (W) x 546mm (D)
  • Weight:
    • Net: 16.7 lb / 7.5 kg
    • Gross: 22 lb / 10 kg

    In the packaging were two pieces of literature with the first being an SSD/HDD installation diagram and the other a multilingual product overview guide. The case design is pretty straightforward so these will be superfluous for most builders.

    ANTEC PROTO LITERATURE

    Also included is a bag of hardware with all the standoffs and screws you’ll need to complete build. The keys for the case locks that we’ll look at later are also in the bag as is an Antec badge sticker that should eventually reside on the indented square on the front of the case, should you choose to use it.

    ANTEC PROTO PARTS

    Let’s have a closer look at the Proto!

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