The DA2 is a compact ITX case designed to strike a balance between size and compatibility, allowing for high performance components to fit comfortably in a small form factor space.
What truly sets the DA2 apart from other SFF cases is its unique approach to mounting components. It utilizes a rail and bracket system that makes it incredibly versatile, greatly improving the range of hardware and type of systems it can be used for.
Cooling performance was another critical consideration throughout the design process, not only will the DA2 support 145mm tall air coolers or a 280mm radiator, it provides excellent airflow for them to run at maximum efficiency and minimal noise.
Version 2 of the DA2 features the same great design and modularity but with refined venting hole patterns on the back and side panels that greatly improve the airflow potential.
For a full breakdown of all the changes, please see the press release.
The original DA2 (now known as the V1) launched in 2018 has been superseded by the V2. The DA2 product page can still be found here
A DIFFERENT APPROACH TO CONSTRUCTION
Whilst many would assume that every aluminum case is constructed in the same way, the DA2 utilizes a fundamental different approach to the construction.
The wrap around outer shell is produced from a single sheet of aluminum (nothing new there) but the frame is attached without any rivets or welds allowing for a higher quality sandblast and anodized surface finish compared with the brushed or coated surface more commonly used.
BEYOND THE GENERIC SHOE BOX DESIGN
No doubt the oblong rectangular box is the most space efficient shape for components, but wouldn’t it be nice to sacrifice some space for style?
We think yes, and the characteristic openings at the top and bottom of the case serve as additional airflow surfaces whilst maintaining a minimalist clean exterior panel that is easy to clean.
ATTENTION TO DETAIL
What differentiates a good case from a premium case? These subtle difference are often overlooked, overshadowed by the focus on technical specifications. Not all aluminium finishing is the same, not all PCI mounting brackets will be CNC’d from a solid block, not all cases will make the effort to ensure screws are only visible on the back and the idea of a modular front I/O that can be changed to suit your needs to future ports is far from commonplace.
HELLO AIRFLOW
How about this for an idea, a case that considers cooling might actually be more important than RGB lighting. There are of course situations when lighting can work really well to enhance a products aesthetic, but its an unfortunate state when they come at the expense of performance and basic functionality. The DA2 upper and lower openings in the frame are a design aesthetic but they are also there to improve cooling and avoid the issue most cases suffer from, lower intake airflow restriction. That combined with the over 2000 precision holes on the back and side panels, plus the ability to support multiple fans in virtually any location, results in excellent airflow and cooling performance.
VERSATILITY UNIVERSAL BRACKETS
The DA2 features an integrated track that runs along the frame of the case which is used to secure the brackets. The brackets themselves are designed to be universal, allowing virtually any hardware to be fitted to them. This combination of universal bracket and adjustable placement gives incredible versatility to the type and position of hardware that cab be fitted.
