MooseMan3000

Bahahaha! I never thought anyone else would actually get that case. When I first saw it, I practically gagged. My girlfriend, however, was in love with it, so that's the ony she chose. It took me quite a while to get used to it, but after seeing all the features and how well the case was designed, I got used to the look. I actually like it now.

But seriously, if you don't like the look of the case, don't buy it. There are other cases that perform well in a similar price range.

Try the Antec Super LANBOY. All aluminum design, side window, front USB and audio, two low speed 120mm fans included. This is another one in my list for my next build. I'm not a huge fan of the blue grill for the front 120mm fan, however, so I'm probably going to stay away from this one. Still considering, though. Pair that guy with basically any Antec, Enermax, or OCZ power supply and you'll by fine. For your uses, I'd say 350w is a little too small, but a 450w should be plenty.

If you want something a little more "normal," try the Antec Solution Series SLK3800B. Includes 1x120mm exhaust fan, with space for 1x120 intake fan, 1x80mm side intake fan, and a vent to help keep the graphics card cool (Newegg says no side vents, but that's a mistake). Also includes a pretty decent 400w power supply, all for under $100. The main drawbacks I see of this guy are that it is made of steel, so it will be a little heavier (but on a mid tower, that's not really too bad), as well as the lacking front ports. It has USB 2.0, but no audio or Firewire.

Really, though, there are thousands of cases out there, ranging from shitty $20 boxes to the $1200 Zalman all heatsink (no fans means no noise!) case. I recommended Antec, Lian Li, and NZXT because I know from experience and reviews that they all have excellent cases. The few that I pointed out I liked mainly for the features they included, with looks at a distant second. They aren't necessarily the right cases for you, however, so look around for a while. You'll find something you like.