Hi,

Im about to buy new computer at my work and the hardware Im intend to use is this :

MSI Z68A-GD55 G3 REV B3
Intel Core i7 2600K 3,4GHz
Corsair 8GB (2x4096MB) CL9 1600Mhz VENGEANCE
Optiarc AD-7280S SATA
Thermalright HR-02 Macho
Fractal Design Tesla 550W 80+
Samsung SSD 830-Series 128GB NB
1TB Western Digital Caviar Green

There is no graphic card as you can see, my thought is to let the built in GPU handle my Two displays at 1920x1200 (I hope that works?).

Now Im looking for the most sound isolated case and these seems to be okay.

Antec P280
Fractal Desing R3
Antec SOLO II

Witch one should I choose for this build?

Fractal Design R3 is the most enclosed of all three it will keep the noise down vs the other two. The Solo II is a disappointing fingerprint magnet and the Antec P280 is decent but it's more expensive then the R3 and sports the same features. The only reason to choose the P280 over the R3 is if you want to install a long graphics card like the HD7970.

Since you're not using a high end GPU I wouldn't suggest te P280. It seems too overkill for your needs. I'm a bit more positive about the Solo II compared to the johnniecache7. There's not much room behind the mo-bo tray for cable routing, but it has the suspension system, great stock fan, and more room for tall CPU coolers. I believe that HR-02 exceed the average maximum height for CPU heatsinks which is approx 160 mm. The HR-02 is about 163 mm tall I think.

How often do you touch your case? I open and close the DVD tray, occasionally hit the reset button, and every once in a while plug in a USB stick. That's about it.

One thing I like about the SOLO II are the external 5.25" bays, as I prefer not having to fiddle with doors just to access optical drives. But I like the top mounted USB ports of the Fractal Design cases. I'm debating the SOLO II vs the R3 vs the Define Mini, as I'd prefer a microATX case if I find a motherboard that I like.

Consider a mATX motherboard and the Define Mini. It's not a lot smaller (the Define R3 is already relatively small) but there doesn't seem to be any need for a big case. While the specs list a 5mm lesser margin for CPU cooler height it shouldn't be a problem with the HR-02 Macho, going by the room left in my R3 with the Macho.

Since you are planning a higher end build, why not get an 80+ Gold or Platinum rated PSU? Less waste heat = lower fan speeds = lower noise. Or you could go fanless.

I like the Solo II for this build, i think would be a good match specially since it comes with suspension mounting for your mechanical, the Solo II is build solid very well made, not flashy and a little glossy but its a fine case, i would replace the fan, and personally i like positive pressure so i would add the two frontal fans also, but get some Nexus Basic 120mm or Scythe Slipstreams, no need for high rpms, the macho will do a great job on the i5 2600k. I would probably go with a better PSU, something like Seasonic 560W 80 Plus Gold ATX 12V/EPS 12V Power Supply - X-560 SS-560KM or KINGWIN STR-500 500W ATX 12V v2.2, EPS 12V v2.91 and SSI EPS 12V v2.92 SLI Ready 80 PLUS PLATINUM Certified Modular Active PFC Stryker Fanless Power Supply

I touch and upgrade my system offen but the finish on the SOLO II also shows dust which builds up fast not mention how easily it would scratch. I'll stick to the P280 or R3 I dislike SOLO II for more reason then just an awful fragile finish.

The dust visibility is because of the glossy black finish. Assuming it's the same paint as was on the P150/Solo, I can testify that it's by no means "fragile".

I'm just hoping Antec starts selling a white one.