Silverstone Raven RV04 Case Review

The Raven RV04 supports a variety of motherboards including the larger Extended ATX, SSI-EEB and SSI-CEB form factors.  As you can imagine this encompasses the entire range of enthusiast motherboards and when combined with eight expansion slots you get the option of 4-way SLI and Crossfire.  You'll find plenty of room at the back of the chassis for self contained watercooling units and the dual front 180mm fans will help keep everything cool. 

For those of you looking for a watercooling option Silverstone includes six spacers to convert the 180mm fan positions into a 3x 120mm for triple fan radiator support.  There doesn’t appear to be a 140mm option but anyone with a dremel and some plastic sheeting can make a spacer to fit.

We don’t see many modding opportunities for the RV04 beyond some of the standards.  Watercooling is an option though running a dual 180mm radiator would be extremely difficult.  With only two 5.25” drive bays you are limited in reservoir placement assuming you need at least one for an optical drive or card reader.  The side window is held in place with screws and metal tabs allowing it to be removed very easily.  We actually like tinting our side windows and this method not only gives you clean lines but an easy way to remove it. 

Cooling mods are highly discouraged.  If the two monster 180mm fans were any indication the RV04 needs no help in the cooling department.  Of course if you are looking for more cooling power or better control over airflow a quick upgrade to the AP182 variable speed fan would be a good option for you.

These days it is easy to find a computer case however, finding a good case that meets your needs can become increasingly difficult.  Most enthusiasts are looking for cases that provide good watercooling opportunities given that many cases cannot provide adequate aircooling. 

The Silverstone Raven RV04 is a good alternative for those looking for a case that can support enthusiast level hardware.  Motherboard support is extremely good and will accept most any X79 motherboard including the Asus Rampage IV Extreme and Gigabyte X79 UD7.  The eight expansion slots also allow for 4-way video cards which is a must in the enthusiast world.

For those looking to watercool you should know that the RV04 is designed to provide excellent and balanced air cooling with allowances for AIO watercoolers.  You do have an option to install a triple 120mm radiator using the included spacers.  Interior space will be limited given the drive cage position and two external 5.25” drive bays.  With some careful planning a pump and res combo could be installed almost anywhere assuming the loss of some internal storage.

The Raven RV04 is available with and without a side window and the only lighting effects are from the blue LED located in the door. 

Solid Construction
Excellent Cooling
Dual 180mm Air Penetrator Fans
RPM Switch
Flipped Motherboard
Easy Side Window

No 140mm fan/radiator option
Limited space for watercooling gear
Only two external 5.25” drive bays