A Closer Look - Outside

The Antec Dark Avenger DA601 focuses on cool looks and built-in aRGB lightning elements to make it stand out. This is clearly apparent with the massive front that comes with two large covering elements that converge to leave an opening in the center. I for one like the design, and it goes along well with the given model name. However, in the bigger picture, the current product line of Antec seems to lack a bit of structure and cohesion, so I would not know where to place it.


Naturally, due to the elaborate design, the front is made out of plastic that feels quite sturdy considering it consists of two big free hanging pieces. Four RGB strips at the edges of both further add to the visual aspect, while an RGB-equipped fan in the center brings it all together. In the rear, the DA601 looks pretty traditional with the PSU bay on the bottom of the chassis.


Antec equipped the DA601 with a glass side panel that is held in place by thumb screws. It does not come with a heavy tint, which is great for showing off your components within. On the opposite side is a solid steel cover with two thumb screws in the back.


You may pull off the front to find a magnetic dust filter on top of the metal frame. Interestingly enough, some of Antec's marketing material for the DA601 show the RGB fan pre-installed on the exterior of the frame, which results in a brighter, more visible RGB element when the system is turned on. Additionally, the dust filter is placed on the interior of the case instead.


Taking a look at the rear of the Dark Avenger, the bottom PSU bay comes with two sets of mounting holes, so you may install your PSU any way you like. Above that are the seven expansion slots with individual reusable covers. While they are held in place by traditional screws, Antec includes a second piece which utilizes two thumb screws to close the gap in the chassis design. In the very top is a 120 mm exhaust fan which may be adjusted vertically for best-possible placement. There is actually quite a bit of space above this area, which means ceiling-mounted fans and radiators should have plenty of space without interfering with the motherboard.


Across the top of the chassis, you will find a high-quality metal mesh cover which is held in place by magnetic strips. Underneath of it are plenty of mounting holes for either three 120 mm or two 140 mm fans. This also translates into radiator support of up to 280 and 360 mm. Antec equipped the DA601 with two USB 3.0 ports along a triangular power button in the center. On the edges, you will find a round reset and a square LED toggle button.


A dust filter on the bottom of the chassis keeps away dust and grime and may be pulled out easily through the back of the case for cleaning without having to tip over the whole system.