Conclusion:
The Codegen Group Briza-97 Mid Tower ATX Case isn't one of the top of the line cases that we have looked at, but it does have alot going for it. At a mere $47.99, it offers a unique appearance, and interesting features like tool-less expansion slots, stylish carrying handles, LED cooling fans, and stealth optical drive covers. It does have a few negative features, but at the price I am willing to let a few things slide. Cases costing over $100 better be fine examples of quality and style, but at $47.99 I would be willing to overlook some of the flaws and might be inclined to consider the power supply disposable.
The power supply may work well for an older, more basic system, but I honestly can't recommend it for a modern machine with a high end processor, graphics cards, and perhaps an array of expensive drives. You are better offer buying this case if the style and features suit you, and adding a more reliable power supply to meet whatever demands your system might offer.
The tool-less feature of this case was a bit of a let-down. There was no tool-less drive mounts, and the expansion slot mechanism didn't work on "tall" cards. The design did seem secure and simpler than many others I have seen, but it just didn't work with my PCI-Express graphics card. In general these devices seem to be a work in progress, and this one was no different.
Overall, the steel used in the case didn't seem to be the sturdiest, but with a system fully installed it was quite strong. Strong enough to be carried around by the two "wing" handles on top. The perforations probably weaken the skin a bit, but even the drive cages felt like they could flex and move more than I was used to. But, the edges were all smooth and I managed to avoid getting cut, which is sadly a rare occurence on cheaper cases.
One thing not really covered in the review is the potential this case offers to would-be modders. The styling is fairly simple, while extremely unique at the same time. I think the case looks cool as is, but it is much like a blank canvas ready to be transformed into something entirely new. The perforated panels would make cutting easy, and a variety of features could be modified in no time. Perhaps the 80mm fan mounts could be modified to accept 120mm fans, or perhaps a water cooling system could be integrated into the case with a bit of ingenuity. On top of that, the perforated panels would work well with a variety of lighting mods, and they would offer a whole new look as compared to a case with a windowed side panel.
ClubIT.com may be a new presence on the Internet, but they have hit the ground running with their selection and pricing, and I expect to see good deals on cutting edge gear from them for years to come. Through the end of September, you get free shipping on everything they sell, so a solid system can be built around the $47.99 Briza-97 case. If you don't make it by the end of the month, the free shipping deal is extended through the end of October on purchases of $50 or more. Checking PriceGrabber doesn't find any exact matches for this case, but older Briza models can be found for about the same price (or more), and these all generally carry a shipping charge of $15 or more!
The price on this case is a strong selling point, and for those on a tight budget the few flaws can easily be overlooked considering the savings. Sure there are cheaper cases out there, but quality suffers the lower you go, and many of the low end pre-modded cases all start to look the same as well. The Briza-97's style isn't over the top, but it is unique, and a few creative touches from a motivated modder could really make something special out of this case.
Given the styling, unique features, low price, and excellent modding potential, I give the Codegen Group Briza-97 Mid Tower ATX Case a final rating of 4 out of 5 stars.
Final Rating (4 out of 5 stars): 
Pros:
• Unique appearance... the holes, the wings/feet, and the grill
• Runs cool and quiet
• Built in handles
• Stealth optical bay covers
• Tool-less expansion slot mechanism
• LED fans create a nice effect through the holes
• Ripe for modding
• Good value - $47.99 shipped free!
Cons:
• Power supply is weak, not for powerful systems!
• Tool-less PCI bracket didn't work on tall cards
• No tool-less feature for drives
• Steel is a bit flimsy
Special thanks to ClubIT.com for providing the Codegen Group Briza-97 Mid Tower ATX Case to Bigbruin.com for review!
Please drop by the Bigbruin.com Forum and feel free to discuss this review.
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