Opinions on new blocks.?
 

Okay, I'm in the market for a new block to replace my Maze2-2. Given the isses that seem to be going on with the Maze3, I dont think its a viable option at this point. I've been looking around at the various block manufacturers and I'd like to get some opinions of people who are using some of the different models. The new system will be 1/2" all the way through, so bear that in mind. Here's what I've been looking at so far:

Maze2-1
Dtek Customs Sidewinder TC-4
Swiftech MCW462-UH

Thanks in advance for any information y'all can give.

--HP

I will have the Swiftech in a few days to play with so I can give you a bit more advice on that block then. As for my opinion, I would try and find someone selling a used Maze2 because they upgraded to a Maze3 and get it cheap. I have seen people selling Maze1Cs for as low as $20 on the forums as well...

Keep in mind that the Maze2's mounting SUCKS for 1/2" thickwall silicone; the outlet interferes with tightening down the bolt near it.

I'll probably just mount it like my Maze2-2 was mounted, with the springs on the bottom of the motherboard, since I already have the hole cut.

--HP

issues with maze 3?

I like the TC-4 and the spirals from D-Tek. You can't get much more turbulent than that TC-4. The spir@ls are also quite good, and I'm really looking forward to the next iteration of them. The only downside is that they can't be mounted on P4s right now, but I know that Fixxit and Danny are working on a solution for that too.

And you tested this how? The TC-4 looks to be a very good block, but I haven't actually tested it and dont have any info on how to optimize turbulators or any specific specs like internal volume, baseplate thickness, pressure the springs produce, etc. Without real specs and (difficult) testing it is hard to make some claims that I see thrown around...

sup, does anyone know of a review of the tc-4. Also why are you going to replace your maze2-2 with a maze2-1? It seems like the Swiftech MCW462-UH would do the same as a maze2-2?

I haven't. But look at the design, the way the water will tumble around inside the channels. It's pretty obvious that it is going to create quite a lot of turbulence. I never said there weren't other ways to get good turbulence, I just said that you can't get a whole lot more turbulent, certainly without starting to interfere with the flow. I can think of maybe a couple of ways, but I doubt they'd be a whole lot better. I'll try to get the other specs you're wanting.

yes, why would you replace a Maze2-2 with a Maze2-1?? :confused:

Because I'm not running any TECs at present, and without them, that many thermal junctions really kills performance.

--HP

cant u just take the cold plate off?

not on the 2-2

why not? im guessing it mounts different than the maze2 or 2-1? what, it doesnt have mounting holes thru the block, just the cold plate? could you drill mounting holes thru the WB? o well, if you are going to get a new block, id get something better than the M2. email DDen and see of they'll use a copper top instead of a plastic top on a M3 for you; that'll eliminate any issues with the top leaking...

Yeah, the mounting holes on the 2-2 are on the cold plate only. and I dont have access to a drill press to attempt to drill out ones in the block. I may give DD an email and see if a copper topped version of the Maze3 can be made availalbe or not, thanks for the idea.

--HP