The RGB LED is really hot at the moment. Motherboards are starting to come with complete RGB lighting controllers, cases coming with RGB fans, video cards have RGB backlights and even memory modules can be found with RGB lamps at the top. This is great if you build a new system where you can choose your RGB commitment level. However, things become a bit more complicated when you try to fix an RGB lamp into an existing building and while the concept is straight forward, actual implementation can be a bit tricky.
In this review I will see SilverStone LSB01. It is a lightweight 8-port RGB strip control box that makes adding RGB bulbs to ANY makes super easy.
The LSB01 controller supports up to 8 strips of RGB LED lights and can be operated independently so you can quickly switch between several predefined color settings. Alternatively, it can be added to an existing controller to expand the RGB level and have lights. The lamp can then be synchronized with your other system.
Inside the box you get the SilverStone LSB01 control box. This box is more than three inches (85mm) wide and about two inches (46mm) wide which allows it to fit almost anywhere in your box. Basic controller also makes super magnetic installation easy. Unfortunately, the owner of the aluminum case may need to remove the Velcro but it costs a small fee to pay for the RGB LED.
Each LSB01 control box is equipped with two SilverStone lighting strips. This strip features a transparent white cover to help diffuse and blend with LED lights. They can be mounted using magnets or with stick pre stick ribbon, just peal and stick.
Installation and Use
I have tried using SilverStone LSB01 in several different situations. The first one is on an open test bench that makes things easier. You can direct the lights wherever you want and with a magnetic base everything stays where it should be.
My system is Gigabyte AX370 Gaming 5 using Gigabyte Fusion lighting controller. Fusion is an RGBW controller that lets you have a special white channel along with RGB. LSB01 is only RGB enabled which may seem problematic until you realize that you are not required to connect the White pin.
Rendering Cooler is very good and when connected to the motherboard controller is synchronized pretty well.
Of course the real power of SilverStone LSB01 is that you can get RGB lights into systems that do not have RGB controllers. For this you simply provide power to the LSB01 and use the reset button to change the color.
I find that the instructions on the RGB light strip are short enough so that the use of the included Y adapter is a requirement. Each Y adapter comes with two ends, one for the SilverStone lamp and the other for the standard RGB LED ribbon that lets you use additional LED strips as needed.
Conclusion
Like many parts of the aftermarket modding, an 8-port RGB Light Strip box has a very limited market but, with huge advantages for people who need it. For users who want to add RGB lights to an existing system, products like SilverStone LSB01 must be owned. You get the ease of installation and the option to add multiple lights at once. The controller and the lamp strip are magnetic, giving you the option to move them without too much hassle.
For users who already have RGB LEDs, the SilverStone LSB01 is a great way to expand your lighting controls and still have everything synchronized with any controller and / or software they use today.
Good things
Supports 8 RGB LED Strips
Stand Alone Controller
Ability to Sync with Existing Controller
Magnetic Base and Strip LED
Bad thing
LED strip lead short
Extra power can only be used in standalone mode
No wireless remote