Designated the m998 in recognition of the HMMWV "Humvee", Ultra compares its latest case offering to the ruggedness and versatility of the popular military vehicle. For me, 998 is significant in that it is shared by the Ducati superbike model 998, an equally impressive (although not very rugged or versatile) vehicle in its own right. But whether the m998 conjures up images of a tough, go-anywhere truck or a sleek and sexy, go-fast bike, can this aluminum mid-tower design really live up to its appointed name?



The shipping container that the case comes in looks somewhat sleek and sexy, with a black and orange motif just in time for Halloween. The m998 pictured on the box appears much the same way, a smooth black, natural finish unmarred by any lights, sculptures or otherwise garish accouterments. Unlike most other boxes I've received lately, this one is short and squat, as the case is packaged with the bottom end rather than the rear side down. Likewise the plush Styrofoam caps are positioned on top and bottom rather than sides, which actually makes more sense considering the amount of jostling the case is sure to take during shipment.

Continue as I take a closer look at the Ultra m998.