Silverstone RV02 Raven 2 Case Review

The Silverstone RV02 Raven2 is a perfect example of what can happen when you refine a good idea into a great one.  The RV01 was an extremely large case designed to accommodate just about anything.  The chassis also showed what could be done using  Stacked Effect Cooling.  However many of us needed something more reasonable in terms of size and practicality for our offices.  The Raven2 seems to answer all of these concerns.  Overall size and styling are very similar to the Silverstone TJ10 so if you don't mind a workstation sized case sitting next to you, then all is good.  The vented top panel is designed to both hide the various cable connections and provide ventilation.  Sadly this also deters us from placing anything on top of the case in fear of blocking that airflow.

Overall case cooling appears to be an excellent mix between high airflow and extreme noise reduction.  Instead of insulating the case panels Silverstone first added extremely quiet fans but also used speed control switches to reduce the noise level even further.  Keep in mind these large fans register at 27dB at full speed and will likely not be heard over any video card you happen to install.

In terms of modifications there is not much you can do to this case that has not already been done or thought of.  Watercooling is one option we always explore and Silverstone has answered that question already, complete with step by step instructions in the manual.  Windows are also a popular casemod, normally we would suggest against a pre-mod window but if you like squares then go for it.  Cooling is the last major modification in any casemodders arsenal and well, with 3x 180mm variable speed fans blowing up from the bottom it's hard to imagine you still need more. 

"hop up" options are a new thing in the casemodding world and usually consist of replacing certain key parts in a case to help them stand out more.  It would be nice to eventually see things like this offered on most Silverstone cases.  Things like replacing the top cover with something made from carbon fiber, or a motherboard tray constructed from aluminum.  Stuff like this helps to dress a case up, but with the Silverstone Raven2 these become wish list items at best.

Now for the ever popular list of Good things and Bad things.

Excellent cooling
Stacked effect cooling design
Badass black inside and out
Available with and without windows
Solid construction
Dual speed fans and control switches
Built in watercooling option

Hard drive cage held in place with 8 screws
No hotswap drive option
Might have liked aluminum accent parts