Getting into H20 cooling...
 

I've got a couple questions that I'd like to ask you guys before I go out and purchase any stuff for my rig. First off, I'm having a lot of trouble deciding on what type of pump I want. I really like the idea of a 12 volt pump(from www.overclock-watercool.com) but from what I've read they're loud, and I'm going for a quiet case. Does anyone have any input to how loud these things actually are, or what type of noise it makes? I planned to insulate the outside of my reservoir with some extra Dynamat I have, hopefully dulling any excess sound out. The other option that I've looked into is a Danner Mag-Drive pump(rated at 500gph), which I think would be quieter. The big difference is mainly the extra power cord. I'm not a big fan of it but I've seen relays and stuff to turn it on when your comp turns on. How hard are those to wire up?

I plan on running an Aquacoil radiator from www.aquastealth.com, and I'm not really sure about the waterblock yet. I'm thinking the Maze2 with the extra peltier plate(in case I ever decide to go that route). The guys over at www.overclock-watercool.com have some interesting stuff up, about V-Tuned waterblocks and something else about a new block coming out with 2.5 times the thermal conductivity of anything available right now. Anyone know anything about that?

So those are my plans, again I'm looking for something that is quiet yet powerful enough to cope with whatever I throw at it. It has to be self-contained within the case and cost isn't a huge issue but nothing absurd. I guess any input is good input right now. Thanks...

I got an Eheim, im happy with it. if you want i can tell you how to wire it to your PS. mail me at atombomb21@tconl.com

I prefer and use the Danger Den Maze 2 waterblock. This block at watercool-overclock sounds interesting if it will be 2.5 times better than any current block (tough claim to make).

As for pumps both the Danner Mag-Drive 350 or 500 and the Eheim 1250 are awesome. From what I'm told the Eheim is quiter, and the Danner sometimes requires some RTV sealant on it's head plate to insure leak free use. I haven't heard much good about the 12v pumps. Considering there bilge pumps and not usually pumps rated for continual use I'd be cautious.

I'm very fond of the aquacube as it's easy to mount in small spaces and cools very well. Other alternatives would be the Black Ice or Big Momma. I like the Big Momma as nothing else can touch it for cooling performance and it's only $49.99 at www.caseetc.com.

One last consideration I'd make is run 1/2" hose. The cost is near identical, and performance is much better. Aquacube is 1/2" compatible, Black Ice could probable be converted (maybe they'll do it for you) and I know Big Momma can be ordered this way for $5.00 more.
Danger Den's Maze2 can be ordered 1/2"
Danner Mag-Drive is 1/2" and 1/2"
Eheim 1250 is 5/8" and 1/2" (so you just need one reducer)

Good Luck

Now my current question lies with having a huge electro-magnet inside my computer case... any adverse effects? Can I shield the resovoir with something? I've heard of people having problems with their monitors. And my hard drive is going to be about 6"-12" above the pump, any cause for concern? Thanks for all the input so far.

you shouldn't have any problem with the mag in the mag-drive technology based pumps. These devices are required to be shielded.

--MAtt