Introduction

We would like to thank Shuttle for supplying the review sample.

Shuttle systems are generally known for their compact dimensions, sleek design, and high reliability. Today, we will take a detailed look at the SH87R6 unit using their new R6 chassis. It is equipped with the latest Intel H87 express chipset, which means that you can pick one of the latest fourth-generation i3/i5/i7 Haswell CPUs and utilize their upgraded HD Graphics core, or use the PCI-Ex16 slot the SH87R6 has by installing a full-length VGA. This barebone’s PSU may have problems powering a high-end Haswell CPU and power-hungry VGA in tandem since its capacity is only 300 W, but Shuttle does provide the option to upgrade to a stronger 500 W PSU. The latter, however, doesn’t come cheap as its price exceeds 100 euros in the EU. That said, this PSU will easily handle a mid-range VGA along with a mid-range Haswell CPU.

The SH87R6's other notable characteristics are its 7.1 channel audio output support, pair of mini-PCIe slots, and I.C.E.2 cooling system utilizing three heatpipes to offer low temperatures while restricting noise output. The mainboard of the barebone also has HDMI and DVI-I video outputs in case users want to utilize the built-in Intel HD Graphics core of the CPU instead of installing a dedicated VGA. The pre-installed PSU is 80 Plus Bronze certified and uses a 50 mm cooling fan, contrary to the 40 mm one the previous model used. This then results in lower noise output since the slightly bigger fan rotates at lower speeds to provide the same airflow. Finally, the most interesting part of the fresh Shuttle SH87R6 is its good price given its features.

Specifications

We believe Shuttle's choice to go with the H87 chipset over the more expensive Z87 for this system to be sound since overclocking can be problematic in such compact PCs because of increased internal temperatures and restrictions posed by the cooling system. The supported CPUs include all Haswell ones, and the four DIMM slots can hold up to 32 GB of RAM. There is also a single Gigabit Ethernet port, and the audio circuit supports 7.1 channels. Regarding storage units, the Shuttle's mainboard has four SATA 3 connectors, so it will cover most needs.

The front has two USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 ports, each, and a microphone and headset port. The rear has four USB 2.0 and two USB 3.0 ports, an eSATA port, HDMI and DVI-I outputs, and the Ethernet and audio I/O ports.

The SH87R6 can take a 5.25" device and two 3.5" ones out of the box. Unfortunately, no brackets for mounting 2.5" HDD/SSDs are included in the bundle. You have to buy the optional PHD3 adapter for the installation of two 2.5" drives from Shuttle. It allows you to install two 2.5" drives in place of one 3.5" drive. We think that SSDs are widespread enough to warrant the inclusion of these adapters in the bundle.

The heatsink of the barebone exploits Heatpipe technology to be more effective, and the fan is powered by a PWM signal, which allows users to easily adjust its profile to their needs. As for the PSU: Its maximum capacity is 300 W and it is 80 Plus Bronze certified, so its efficiency will be decent.

The expansion slots include two PCIe ones, a x16 and smaller x1 slot, and two Mini-PCIe sockets. You can install a mSATA drive or Wi-Fi card into the latter. The dimensions of the barebone are also small and its weight is very low. Its price looks good for all the above, while its warranty period is long enough.