MODTHEBOX.COM - Canada's Premier Case Modding Source - Reviews - Thermaltake Silent Boost RX K8 CPU Cooler Review

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What makes the Silent Boost unique is the fan. This meaty 5 blade fan is what Thermaltake calls a "reversed fan". There is no housing that surrounds the fan blade tips. Thermaltake figures this is the main cause for turbulence, causing noise when the fan is in operation. The fan uses a standard 3-pin connector whose wires are sleeved. A 3-pin to Molex connector was not included.

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In what looks to be a trend between HSF and water block manufacturers, the base of the Silent Boost is perfect in flatness, but lacking in luster. A mirror finish to the base of the HSF would probably have very little impact on the effectiveness of this unit.

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With the reversed fan removed, we can clearly see the potential for this aluminum shroud. There are holes pre-drilled to accommodate 92mm and 80mm fans. I am always thrilled when I see manufacturers creating flexible solutions such as the Silent Boost. The illustration on the right shows how Thermaltake has attached the copper fins to the copper base.