Back at the 2007 Consumer Electronics Show we had the opportunity to check out one of SilverStone's most innovative cases ever, the TJ07. This full tower aluminum chassis doesn't appear to be drastically different from other offerings, but that couldn't be any further from the truth. The main structure of the TJ07 is crafted from a solid extruded aluminum panel measuring 5.3 feet in length and 4mm to 8mm in thickness. Using a process never before seen in PC cases, the panel is then arched precisely on two sides with automotive-caliber press machines to create the top, front and bottom sides of the chassis. The end result is an aluminum chassis frame with more than twice the structural rigidity of average steel cases, helping to practically eliminate vibration-induced noise.

Now more than two years later, SilverStone has created a new product line, dubbed Fortress, based on the original TJ07 design and construction. Today we will be taking a look at the first offering from this new line, the FT01 Midtower chassis.


The FT01 arrived in the retail package that you see above. Large photos of the case, both in silver and black, adorn both sides of the cardboard box. From the size of the box, you would think this is a full tower chassis. SilverStone is quick to point out several features of the FT01 on the backside of the box, and have a complete list of specifications on the sides. Those specifications, borrowed from SilverStone's website, have been reproduced below.



I found it interesting that the UPS label noted the package weight at 49 pounds, yet the case itself is only listed at 8.66kg, or 19.1 pounds. That's quite a big difference, and I can assure you this case is nowhere near 49 pounds.

Continue ahead as we get down to business with the FT01...