Hardware News

Thermaltake DuOrb VGA Cooler Review

October 31, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

NGOHQ has posted a review of the Thermaltake DuOrb VGA cooler.

Here’s what they had to say:

“During our review, the DuOrb performed flawlessly as we had hoped after seeing the design. In addition, we also tested the stability of the included memory heatsinks, the adhesive is sticky enough, so if your memory chips are clean there is far less chance the memory heatsinks will drop off. When it came to performance, the DuOrb performed well and satisfied us. The noise level while not super-silent was satisfying also.”

Featuring decent performance, quiet operation, good looks, and a relatively low profile, the DuOrb is another solid product from Thermaltake.

Click here to read the full review.

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SoundGraph iMON Ultra Bay LCD Display Review

October 31, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Virtual-Hideout has posted a review of the SoundGraph iMON Ultra Bay LCD display.

Let’s see what they had to say:

“This is a must-have for the homebrew HTPC setup. The front display is bright and viewable from across the room. The host of displayable features are almost endless and can be a conversation piece. Install and setup are snap, but just keep in mind that using the remote as a keyboard will take some getting used to. Once the learning curve is met, you will be cracking beers open with one hand and burning up the remote with the other.”

I don’t like the fact that it takes up two 5.25” bays, but if it’s compatible with your case, it’s definitely worth a look.

Click here to read the full review.

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ZEROtherm BTF92 OC Edition CPU Cooler Review

October 31, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Think Computers has posted a review of the new ZEROtherm BTF92 OC Edition CPU cooler.

Here’s what they had to say:

“Once again ZEROtherm impresses us with another cooler that performs great! The small profile and easy installation makes the BTF92 great for consumers and system builders. It is really hard to find a small cooler that performs as well as the BTF92 does. So it is perfect for a LANBOX or HTPC case. Also as we said earlier in the review the installation takes at most 4 minutes! You really can't beat that. Since installation is so easy consumers feel less threatened and will likely choose this cooler over another that has a difficult installation.”

Despite its awkward design, the BTF90 was one of the most surprising heatsinks of 2007. Featuring roughly the same dimensions as the original, the BTF92 provides improved cooling performance, and serves as a solid competitor to the Thermalright Ultima-90 in the high-end compact heatsink market.

Click here to read the full review.
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Logitech G51 Speaker System Review

October 31, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

TechGage has posted a review of the Logitech G51 surround sound speaker system.

Let’s see what they had to say:

“Overall, Logitech's G51 proved itself a worthy contender in the world of surround gaming audio. In general, Logitech has taken the right approach to designing a gaming audio system, by building a system that addresses the concerns of fidelity and dynamic range instead of going for cheap thrills like 'boom and sizzle'. I was impressed by the system's power, and its ability to deliver plenty of room-filling output from a compact package. I also appreciated the conveniently-located, user-friendly controls.”

While this is another fine sound system from Logitech, if you can scrounge together an extra $100, I would highly recommend the spectacular Logitech Z-5500’s.

Click here to read the full review.
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Tagan TG1300-U33 1300W Power Supply Review

October 30, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Big Bruin has just reviewed the Tagan TG1300-U33 1300W power supply.

Here’s what they had to say:

“The Tagan TG1300-U33 In The Zone Series 1300W power supply goes beyond providing adequate power and should be able to provide power to any extreme system for many years to come.

The number of SATA, 4-pin drive, PCI-E (two of which are PCI-E eight pin), and Physics Card power connectors will allow the user to install a large number of devices. Then consider the addition of extras like the anti-vibration gasket and the four pin power to SATA connectors, and we have a power supply that is prepared for just about any situation.”

I am not too keen on the six 12V rail design, regardless of the ‘automatic rail combine’ feature, but it certainly seems to get the job done. I have yet to read a review where this power supply was not highly praised, so that speaks volumes.

Click here to read the full review.

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ZEROtherm Hurricane HC92 VGA Cooler Review

October 30, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Modders-Inc has posted a review of the ZEROtherm Hurricane HC92 CU8800 VGA cooler.

Let’s see what they had to say:

“The ZEROTherm Hurricane HC92 CU8800 VGA Cooler is definitely up to the challenge of cooling an Nvidia 8800 video card. If your looking for the best performance or a moderate performance with low noise levels, the Hurricane HC92 could be right up your alley. Remember that the cooler does take up the space of three slots and can be a tight fit for some configurations depending on what other cards you have in your system. Having only one sample here to play with I can not say for sure that a SLI configuration is 100% out of the question, but I will say if it does fit it will be very very tight with the plastic cover removed. Any sagging in the upper card and it would likely cause the fan to hit the backside of the card. For a single GPU solution the Hurricane HC92 would be an ideal choice at a respectable $50 dollar price range.”

It’s nice to see a new arrival to the VGA cooler market, particularly one that is GeForce 8800 compatible. However, it’s hard to determine exactly how well it performs without a direct comparison with a competitive product, such as the Thermalright HR-03 or Zalman VF1000.

Click here to read the full review.
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Gigabyte MA69G-S3H AM2 Motherboard Review

October 30, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Digit-Life has posted a review of the Gigabyte MA69G-S3H, a Socket AM2 motherboard based on the AMD 690G chipset.

Let’s see what they had to say:

“In a way, this is a very interesting motherboard. It allows displaying on two monitors without having to install a discrete graphics card (cards!). The second monitor can be connected either via HDMI or DVI. In similarity to Gigabyte M55plus-S3G the board provides all of the useful interfaces, such as FireWire and gigabit Ethernet. It appears that the two boards will coexist in harmony with on another as part of the corresponding series of Gigabyte's products. If a user really needs to install a lot of PCI cards, it will be logical to choose an "older" board. On the other hand, if you are interested in high-performance integrated graphics coupled with low heat emission of the chipset and multi-monitor features then the reviewed solution seems like a natural choice.”

For $85-90, this is a solid motherboard for those who don’t need SLI/CrossFire capability, and the 690G chipset is a nice alternative to the venerable nForce 500 series.

Click here to read the full review.

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NVIDIA GeForce 8800 GT Reviews

October 30, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

As you all know, the NVIDIA GeForce 8800 GT was officially released yesterday, and most large e-tailers sold out in a matter of hours. For those of you who weren’t fortunate enough to buy one, here are some reviews to hold you over:

• Anandtech:
  
  

  “It's really not often that we have the pleasure to review a product so impressively positioned. The 8800 GT is a terrific part, and it is hitting the street at a terrific price (provided NVIDIA's history of properly projecting street prices continues). The performance advantage and price utterly destroyed our perception of the GPU landscape. We liked the value of the 8800 GTS 320, and we were impressed when NVIDIA decided to go that route, providing such a high performance card for so little money. Upping the ante even more this time around really caught us off guard.”

  
  Click here to read the full review.
  
  
  
• DriverHeaven:
  
  

  “High performance at a reasonable price is a balance which both ATI and Nvidia strive to achieve in the lucrative mainstream market and today is the release of Nvidia's new 512MB 8800 GT, priced around £160/$250 mark.
  
  We have four cards on our test bench for this review supplied by Asus, MSI, XFX and Zotac with each taking a different approach to the reference GT, some are overclocked and others have added extras. Which one, if any, should be top of your shopping list?”

  
  Click here to read the full review.
  
  
  
• HotHardware:
  
  

  “Virtually across the board NVIDIA's new GeForce 8800 GT is as fast or faster than a 640MB GeForce 8800 GTS card and significantly faster than a Radeon 2900 XT, save for a couple of CrossFire/SLI enabled tests like 3DMark and Bioshock, where driver maturity is likely the limiting factor for the new NVIDIA card. From a purely a DX10 gaming perspective, the GeForce 8800 GT ran roughshod over the significantly more expensive Radeon HD 2900 XT and even outscored a GeForce 8800 GTS in more than a few spots as with our Bioshock single card testing. Finally, in terms of HD digital video processing and image quality, the GeForce 8800 GT, with its second gen PureVideo HD engine, is roughly on par with AMD's AVIVO solution currently.”

  
  Click here to read the full review.
  
  
  

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Thermalright HR-11 VGA Backside Cooler Review

October 29, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Hardware Logic has posted a review of the innovative Thermalright HR-11 VGA backside cooler.

Let’s see what they had to say:

“Like many enthusiasts, I've always been a huge fan of Thermalright products, and I found the Thermalright HR-11 to be an interesting, but perplexing product. On the one hand, you can't really argue the point that the HR-11 does what it's advertised to. While the results weren't really spectacular, there was a measurable difference in temperature between using the HR-11 and nothing. However the improved temperatures were easily achieved with a much simpler and cheaper solution; by mounting a fan over the area that includes the top of the graphics card and the motherboards northbridge chipset.”

This is definitely an interesting product, and it might just be worth it for those who truly care about every last degree.

Click here to read the full review.

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24-inch LCD Monitors Roundup

October 29, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

X-bit Labs has compared eight 24” LCD monitors, from Acer, Apple, Dell, LG, Samsung, and ViewSonic.

Here’s what they had to say:

“There is in fact only one clear loser today. It is the LG Flatron L245WP. This monitor might have got a better word from me if it were not for one serious defect. Its regulation of brightness proved to be virtually unusable. When you choose a brightness value other than the factory setting, you lose either dark or light halftones. This monitor proved rather inconvenient at work and also had a low contrast ratio as its lamps worked at their full capacity all the time.”

The Apple Cinema HD, Dell 2407WFP, and Samsung SyncMaster 244T are definitely the standout performers in this roundup. However, I would also recommend that potential buyers take a look at the BenQ FP241W, which has gotten nothing but good reviews in enthusiast forums.

Click here to read the full article.
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Top 20 3DMark06/PCMark05 Movers & Shakers

October 29, 2007 - Joe "OuTkAsT-1" Topolnisky

Welcome back to our weekly look at the top 3DMark06 and PCMark05 scores submitted to the online result browser (ORB). Things pretty slow this past week, but we do have a pair of hot new entires to share with everyone. So who deserves some props? Read on to find out:

Jumping from 11th to 1st overall in the 3DMark06 Top 20:
1. 28054 Sampsa & crotale @ Intel Sweden OC event

And sneaking into the PCMark05 Top 20 is:
20. 14317 mtech(Kyiv,Ukraine) | Team MXS-E6700+8800GTS Single

Way to go Sampsa! Very impressive stuff. :D

Keep up the great work guys! And remember to visit the Hall of Fame for updates to the top scores throughout the week.

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Asus Eee PC 701 Notebook Review

October 29, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

CNET has just reviewed the highly anticipated Asus Eee PC 701 mini notebook.

Let’s see what they had to say:

“It's hard to fault the Eee PC, mainly because of its price. It can be difficult to use because of the cramped keyboard, but it's better than similar-sized laptops like the Toshiba Libretto. If you're in the market for a second PC, or looking for something you can take with you almost anywhere, the Eee PC is definitely worth buying.”

While this notebook may not be suitable for gaming or other intensive applications, it will undoubtedly prove to be one of the most popular electronic devices of 2008.

Click here to read the full review.

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ASUS EN8800GT 512MB Review

October 29, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Elite Bastards has posted a review of the new ASUS EN8800GT 512MB graphics card.

Here’s what they had to say:

“Similarly, at this moment in time, its equally difficult to find many down-sides to our first look at a G92-based part - NVIDIA have taken the same base architecture that has already proved so succesful in G80, given it a manufacturing process shrink, and used much of those die space savings to raise clock speeds and pack in much improved video playback support via their VP2 engine while also tweaking the abilities of the core's texturing units. If that wasn't enough, the GeForce 8800 GT also sees an additional cluster of Stream Processors enabled over the GeForce 8800 GTS, which (coupled with those clock speed increases) gives this particular SKU a very nice shot in the arm performance-wise. Given the already stellar performance of the GTS, it shouldn't take too much persuading from me that the GeForce 8800 GT is a definite step up in this area.”

The 8800GT is cheaper than the 8800GTS, and it’s cheaper, what’s not to love?

Click here to read the full review.

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Intel Core 2 Extreme QX9650 45nm CPU Reviews

October 29, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Intel will officially be launching their 45nm processors in a couple of weeks, but in the mean time, here are some reviews of the top-of-the-line Core 2 Extreme QX9650.

• Bit-Tech:
  
  

  "We think it's fair to say that Intel's Penryn architecture can be regarded as a success, as it offers some decent performance enhancements over existing processors, while using much less power in the process. Most of the success can be attributed to the "brute force" methods like the 50 percent larger cache instead of the more delicate features like SSE4, which requires specific optimisation in software to see the benefits. However the most interesting changes should be in the mobile parts which feature some great new technologies."

  
  Click here to read the full review.
  
  
  
• Hot Hardware:
  
  

  “The Yorkfield-based Core 2 Extreme QX9650 is a success in every sense of the word. The processor is faster, has new features, uses much less power, is less expensive to produce, and has more overclocking headroom than its predecessor. What more is there to say? Sure, the new features like SSE4 won't be fully exploited until applications are programmed to use them, but that is already happening and we suspect adoption will be relatively quick considering the available performance increases. And the fact that chips built using Intel's 45nm process will be cheaper to produce doesn't just mean more profits for Intel. It means the company can keep the price pressure on AMD while maintaining their bottom line, so expect aggressive pricing with future mainstream and mid-level dual and quad-core 45nm processors.”

  
  Click here to read the full review.
  
  
  
• Legit Reviews:
  
  

  “The processor we looked at was solid as it performed better, consumed less energy and was able to overclock by 33% to over 4GHz! It doesn't get much better than that! The new Intel Core 2 Extreme QX9650 is the fastest processor on the market today hands down. Now you'll just have to wait a couple more weeks for them to be available in the market!”

  
  Click here to read the full review.
  
  
  
• TechGage:
  
  

  “We've known for a while that Penryn was much more than a process shrink, but some of the performance increases have exceeded our expectations. The performance advantage of Penryn depends upon what the processor will be used for, however. As far as video conversion is concerned, SSE4 is going to prove a godsend for those who deal with these scenarios everyday. No matter how you look at it, a 40% increase clock for clock is incredible.”

  
  Click here to read the full review.
  
  
  
• X-bit Labs:
  
  

  “So, Intel made another strong evolutionary move forward having prepared the launch of new Penryn processors with 45nm cores. Mastering new production technology alongside with introducing new SSE4 instructions, increasing the L2 cache and making other micro-architectural improvements allowed them to raise the processor performance by another few percent without increasing the clock frequency. Moreover, at the same time Intel engineers managed to reduce the new processors’ heat dissipation and power consumption although even their predecessors were quite economical already. The frequency potential has also grown a lot, which will please numerous overclocking fans.”

  
  Click here to read the full review.
  

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MSI GeForce NX8800GT 512MB Review

October 28, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

TweakTown has posted a review of the awesome MSI GeForce NX8800GT 512MB graphics card.
Let’s see what they had to say:

“We had no doubt that NVIDIA was going to bring something to the party to battle the HD 2900 PRO but we didn’t think it was going to be a new card. We thought maybe a few tweaks here and there in the drivers would be done but instead they decide to drop the bombshell that is the 8800GT.”

It’s too bad that any momentum AMD had with the HD 2900 PRO is now lost with the arrival of the Geforce 8800GT. It is quite simply an epic product.

Click here to read the full review.

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Rosewill RCX-Z4 CPU Cooler Review

October 28, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

TweakTown has posted a review of the Rosewill RCX-Z4 CPU cooler.

Let’s see what they had to say:

“With the Z4 currently available for $39.99 USD from Newegg it would be unreasonable for anyone to expect it to perform with the Noctua or high-end Zalmans of the world. The truth is that since Rosewill included a way for the end user to adjust his or her level of performance (and with it the acoustic level), this is a really good choice for ‘regular’ computer users. The offset design may also come in handy when working with an odd case such as a Home Theater PC where room for hard drives or other devices will interfere with the placement of large coolers.”

This is a half-decent CPU cooler, and the included rheostat is a nice touch, but it is definitely not meant for heavy overclocking.

Click here to read the full review.

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Interview with AMD VP of World Wide GPU and Chipsets

October 28, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

DriverHeaven has posted an interview with John Byrne, AMD’s vice-president of World Wide GPU and Chipsets.

Here’s an excerpt:

“John: Were very confident in our architecture. Most of the DX10 games we’ve seen so far have been rather straightforward ports of DX9 code and that process is fraught with difficulties. If the code was originally written with DX9 in mind then it often doesn’t translate well to DX10 and for that reason quite a few games seem to have lackluster performance. Were gradually seeing a trend to true DX10 coding and when that happens it brings huge benefits. The Acid test seems to be simple. If, at the same settings, the DX10 game runs slower then in most cases you should stick with the DX9 version. But if, at those same settings, the DX10 version is fastest then you’re probably looking at a great and new piece of coding. As we go forward, we certainly expect more and more games to have a native DX10 code-path and that’s great news for us. It gives gamers a much better experience and really lets DX10 hardware like the RV670 shine! That’s when you’ll see why our DX10 hardware was the right choice!”

If you have some spare time, it’s worth a read.

Click here to read the full article.

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Crysis Demo Performance Analysis

October 28, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

TweakTown has posted a performance analysis of the Crysis demo.

Let’s see what they had to say:

“It’s clear that NVIDIA’s top dogs come out ahead of the AMD offerings, and with the giant NVIDIA logo at the start of Crysis it comes as no real surprise.

There is no doubt that Crysis is going to be at the top of the priority list for both NVIDIA and AMD as we see more drivers between now and the end of the year. It will be interesting to see how much more performance AMD can squeeze out of the HD 2900 XT, though it really doesn’t look all that good for them since the 8800GT has rocked up on the market.”

In summary, Crysis is quite graphically intensive, so mid-level or previous generation cards need not apply.

Click here to read the full article.

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Thermalright IFX-14 CPU Cooler Review

October 28, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Think Computers has posted a review of the Thermalright IFX-14 CPU cooler.

Here’s what they had to say:

“While Thermalright is known for making some of the best heatsinks money can buy we were really disappointed with the IFX-14. The biggest disappointment was when we found out the base was not exactly flat. Thermalright should know better than this. Especially since those huge fins and heatpipes on top rely on the base. This small difference in height on the base really effects performance. Also installation is not for beginners, it took us a good 15-20 minutes to fully install the cooler. You need to have a large case for the IFX-14 too, I would suggest something like the Antec P182.”

Every reviewer has stated that the IFX-14 has an uneven base, so I am shocked that Thermalright has not yet rectified this situation. Until they do, stick with the Ultra-120 Extreme.

Click here to read the full review.
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AMD DTX Specification Preview

October 26, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Legit Reviews has posted a look at AMD’s new DTX form factor, which is intended for smaller computer systems.

Here’s what they had to say:

“Over the past ten months AMD has brought the DTX specification from a design on paper to an actual product that works. It is obvious that AMD is listening to market demands, as just this year alone they have announced low-wattage 45W desktop processor offerings and the DTX specification that will help make HTPC's smaller, cooler and quieter. Now that AMD has gotten the ball rolling, industry partners such as Albatron, Asus, Cooler Master, ECS, Gigabyte, MSI, Silverstone, and Thermaltake need to pick up the DTX form factor and run with it. All of these companies are releasing DTX platforms, whether it be a chassis, motherboard or a complete OEM system. When these companies launch retail products is when the market should get excited about what DTX can offer.”

Overall, it looks like a promising design. However, it will be interesting to see whether AMD has the clout to successfully promote a new form factor.

Click here to read the article.

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Genius Ergo Media 500 Game Pad Review

October 26, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Techware Labs has posted a review of the Genius Ergo Media 500 game pad.

Let’s see what they had to say:

“The Genius ErgoMedia 500 has many great features, and is ergonomic as the name implies. Compared to other game pads and devices that I have seen previously, this definitely seems to have better features. The backlight, which allows keys to be seen in the dark, is definitely a great feature for those gamers who play with the lights off. To prevent wires from running all over the place, the ErgoMedia has its own headphone and microphone port on it. This would also eliminate the need of reaching around to the back of the computer. Overall the Ergo Media 500 would be a good investment of $40 if you enjoy using game pads.”

Genius has done a respectable job with the design of this game pad, so if you’re a heavy gamer it’s worth a look.

Click here to read the full review.

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Microsoft Reports 1Q Financial Results

October 26, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Microsoft has just announced their fiscal first-quarter financial results, and they are quite impressive.

Let’s see what they had to say:

“Microsoft Corp. today announced revenue of $13.76 billion for the quarter ended September 30, 2007, a 27% increase over the same period of the prior year. Operating income, net income and diluted earnings per share for the quarter were $5.92 billion, $4.29 billion and $0.45, respectively.

“This fiscal year is off to an outstanding start with the fastest revenue growth of any first quarter since 1999,” said Chris Liddell, chief financial officer at Microsoft. “Operating income growth of over 30% also reflects our ability to translate revenue into profits while making strategic investments for the future.”

Microsoft’s businesses of Client, Microsoft Business Division, and Server and Tools grew combined revenue in excess of 20%, and experienced robust demand for Windows Vista, the 2007 Microsoft Office system, Windows Server, and SQL Server.”

With the predictable success of Vista, Office 2007, and Halo 3, it’s no great surprise that Microsoft has posted a terrific quarter.

Click here to read the press release.

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Akasa Revo CPU Cooler Review

October 26, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

TechPowerUp has just posted a review of the Akasa Revo CPU cooler.

Here’s what they had to say:

“However, the Revo seems to fall short on its promises. For a quiet cooler the fan was much too loud when run at full speed. The condition of the base was disappointing, too. I had seen reviews of preproduction Revos with mirror finish bases, and they seemed to perform better, too. Add to all this the Revo's high price, and it makes it hard to recommend the Revo.

Overall the design of the Revo is interesting, but for about the same price users can purchase a high-end air cooler or a low-end watercooler and get better performance.”

This CPU cooler is lackluster in most respects, which makes the $80 price tag even more appalling.

Click here to read the full review.

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HIS Radeon HD 2900 PRO 512MB Review

October 25, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Digit-Life has posted a review of the new HIS Radeon HD 2900 PRO 512MB.

Here’s what they had to say:

“HIS RADEON HD 2900 PRO 512MB PCI-E produces a very nice impression owing to its low price. Indeed, $250 for such a product makes you forget about many problems, because this card is better than Mid-End cards of the previous and current generations anyway. Remember that the card works well at the 2900 XT frequencies, so it's actually a downrated 2900 XT card. Let's hope that driver problems will be fixed soon.”

The HD 2900 PRO is still the card to beat in the $200-300 range, at least until the Geforce 8800GT and Radeon HD 3000 series are finally released.

Click here to read the full review.
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Leadtek Winfast PX8800 Ultra Leviathan Review

October 25, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

TweakTown has posted a review of the water-cooled Leadtek Winfast PX8800 Ultra Leviathan.

Let’s see what they had to say:

“The card is fast, there’s no denying that. The bundle is good, the out of the box clocks are excellent as well. Leadtek seemed to have found a spot that runs just perfect. It’s not only cool but rock solid. What’s clear though is it’s at the edge, we also like to venture a bit into overclocking but as soon as we started moving only a few MHz up on the core memory artifacts would appear, so like the XFX it’s really at its peak.”

Leadtek has definitely managed to create the King of all Geforce 8800 Ultra’s, and it certainly costs a king’s ransom as well.

Click here to read the full review.

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Foxconn Unveils New P35AP-S Motherboard

October 25, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Foxconn has announced the new P35AP-S Digital Life series motherboard.

Here’s what they had to say:

“Foxconn today released the P35AP-S motherboard – the latest product in Foxconn’s Digital Life segment, which aims to bring more connectivity and digital entertainment capability to high-end motherboards.

The P35AP-S is based on the Intel® P35 chipset, and offers support for both DDR3 and DDR2 memory. Foxconn engineers have managed to eliminate crosstalk and other types of electrical interference associated with ‘combo memory’ circuit designs, delivering a motherboard which has excellent memory performance, in both DDR2 and DDR3 configurations.”

Aside from the horrendous colour scheme, this looks like a decent motherboard for those who want both DDR2 and DDR3 memory support.

Click here to read the press release.

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OCZ PC3-14400 Platinum 2GB Memory Kit Review

October 25, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

TechPowerUp has posted a review of the OCZ PC3-14400 Platinum 2GB memory kit.

Let’s see what they had to say:

“OCZ has created some great memory modules once again. While DDR3 is still very new on the market, the new CPUs with higher FSB take advantage of the higher frequencies possible with DDR3. The PC3-14400 Platinum Kit is perfectly balanced, so you will be able to get the most out of a high-end system no matter if you have limited voltage or timing options available in the BIOS. But considering the price of these Kits, it is certainly aimed at early adoptors who want to get the most out of their systems. If you are in the market for solid memory on the newest boards like the X38 or upcoming X48 and AMD chipsets, then the OCZ PC3-14400 should be a great choice.”

While this is a decent DDR3 memory kit, it’s disappointing that it couldn’t reach 2000MHz, a feat which most other PC3-14400 kits easily accomplish. Having said that, this could have been a below-average sample.

Click here to read the full review.
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Razer Diamondback 3G Gaming Mouse Review

October 24, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

The Tech Lounge has just reviewed the Razer Diamondback 3G gaming mouse.

Here’s what they had to say:

“The Diamondback 3G is control where other devices are just paths to it. In every way it's better than the Plasma (except maybe aesthetics--I liked the smoked shell). It's a shame Razer doesn't put forth the effort to make the rest of the package as good. If they improved the software, made it more versatile, they'd guarantee a greater market share, and there would be a lot less division among gamers about their otherwise exemplary mice.”

This is definitely a solid alternative to Logitech MX and G-series gaming mice, whether it is superior is largely a matter of personal preference.

Click here to read the full review.
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Asus Maximus Formula Motherboard Review

October 24, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Elite Bastards has posted a review of the new Asus Maximus Formula motherboard.

Let’s see what they had to say:

“Overall then, the Maximus Formula turns out to be a typical ASUS motherboard offering - A logical feature set for its target market, a good layout and a fantastic array of overclocking options. It also revels in some smart little features to make life easier for users, such as the CMOS reset button on the motherboard's back plate, and the inclusion of a water cooling compatible chipset cooler block on the Special Edition part we've looked at today. Personally, I'm not sure about the inclusion of the SupremeFX II as a PCI Express 1x audio solution over having it as a more traditional on-board part, especially considering the fact that it's the exact same chip as that used on-board in the P5E3 Deluxe, but that aside there really isn't a great deal to criticise about the Maximus Formula.”

If you’re in the market for a high-end X38 Express-based motherboard, and want to keep using your current DDR2 memory, then the Maximus Formula should be high on your list.

Click here to read the full review.

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OCZ Announces 500W StealthXStream Power Supply

October 24, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

OCZ has just unveiled the new 500W StealthXStream power supply.

Here’s what they had to say:

“OCZ Technology Group, a worldwide leader in innovative, ultra-high performance and high-reliability memory and power supplies, today announced the new 500 Watt StealthXStream Power Supply to offer a sufficient source of power for mainstream gaming PCs. The 500W edition features the same understated look as its 600W predecessor with a sleek black case and unlit fan for the value-conscious consumer seeking effective, quiet performance. Qualified under the watchful eye of the Power Management division at PC Power & Cooling, the StealthXStream is built for superior reliability at an extremely affordable price point.”

If the 600W StealthXStream power supply is any indication, this 500W model should provide excellent bang-for-the-buck.

Click here to read the press release.

Click here to check out the product page.

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I-Mate Unveils Four New Smartphones

October 24, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

i-mate has just revealed four new Ultimate series PocketPC phones.

Here’s what they had to say:

“i-mate™, a global manufacturer of high performance Windows Mobile devices and related peripherals, today announced the launch of its Ultimate range of wireless devices in the Americas— the Ultimate 6150, 8150, 8502, and 9502. The Ultimate range offers high-end device specifications— including video out that can drive video onto a plasma screen and the fastest radio connection of any Windows Mobile device— in a variety of form factors making them the mobile devices of choice for businesses and consumers seeking both functionality and style. The Ultimate range is powered by the Windows Mobile 6 operating system.”

I am very impressed with i-mate right now. These are all fully featured handsets, featuring Windows Mobile 6.0 Professional, 2.6”or 2.8” touchscreens, 400Mhz or 520Mhz processors, WiFi, HSDPA, GPS (8502 and 9502), there’s not much else you could want in a smartphone. I’m anxious to find out how much the 9502 is going to retail for, as I’m highly interested in testing one.

Click here to read the press release.

Click here to check out the Ultimate 6150.

Click here to check out the Ultimate 8150.

Click here to check out the Ultimate 8502.

Click here to check out the Ultimate 9502.

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Lian Li PC-B25B Aluminium Mid-Tower Case Review

October 23, 2007 - Martin "Langaleer" Finbow

Benchmark Reviews have taken Lian Li's brand new Mid-Tower Case, the PC-B25B for a spin!

Lian Li are well known for their innovative designs and style, but does this live up to the Lian Li name? :

“There's a good reason as to why Lian Li has been at the very top of the computer chassis industry for the past seven years; they have upheld a tradition of producing well designed products. Just as popular for their craftsmanship, the Lian Li company has a history of ingenious application of aluminum in their products. Benchmark Reviews has inspected the all new PC-B25B Black Aluminum Mid-Tower ATX Case, and we offer a public view of our results.”

I find this to be a very sleek looking case with a user-friendly design, but I'm still on the fence regarding the circular front light.

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OCZ Vendetta 2 CPU Cooler Prototype

October 23, 2007 - Martin "Langaleer" Finbow

The guys at Hardware Secrets have let a secret out of their bag, with the first look at OCZ's brand new cooler, currently called the Vendetta 2.

Lets see what they have to say on OCZ's new cooler, still in development:

“We took a look on the prototype of OCZ's forthcoming Vendetta 2 CPU cooler (the final commercial name can be different), a CPU cooler target to current Intel and AMD processors with aluminum fins, three copper heat-pipes and a perpendicular fan. Just like the original Vendetta CPU cooler, Vendetta 2 is in fact designed and licensed from German manufacturer Xigmatek. Let's take a look on this prototype”

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Zalman Reserator XT - GWB8800 Review

October 23, 2007 - Martin "Langaleer" Finbow

ZALMAN were the first to introduce a completely silent water cooling solution, with their massive Reserator tower. Still carrying the Reserator name, ZALMAN have released this new and improved Reserator XT, which has been reviewed by our friends at Guru3D.

Here’s what they had to say:

“Having seen these three power supplies now we can't really come up with a real suggestion which one to buy. All of them managed to deliver the rated power and even a little bit more. In the end the user has to decide which one will best fit their needs, although perhaps the more pertinent question to ask here is if there is really a need for huge power supplies like this at all? Just as not everyone needs quad-core processors, multiple graphics cards, extreme overclocking, and/or a dozen hard drives running in multiple RAID arrays, there are plenty of computer users that will likely never need anything near 1000W of power for their home computer.”

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nVIDIA 8600GT DDR2 vs DDR3 in 12 Games

October 23, 2007 - Martin "Langaleer" Finbow

When two cards run exactly the same gpu, but have different types of memory, it always adds to the confusion to you, the buyer. Is DDR3 better than DDR2? Should you really have to worry about one over the other?
Well our friends at MadShrimps have posted a comparison of the 8600GT GPU with both DDR2 and DDR3 to try and help out with the confusion.

Here’s what they had to say:

“In this review we take a closer look at the Club 3D 8600 GT based video card, it comes with no less than 512Mb DDR2. We compare the performance of this card in twelve of the most recent games, including Team Fortress 2, Unreal Tournament 3, Quake Wars, Bioshock and many others against a 256mb DDR3 8600 GT and previous mid-range champ, the 7600 GT”

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Gigabyte GA-P35-DS4 Motherboard Review

October 23, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Bjorn3D has just reviewed the Gigabyte GA-P35-DS4 motherboard.

Here’s what they had to say:

“Gigabyte has designed a nice motherboard with their GA-P35-DS4. Not only it has good performance and nice features, the fact that it consumes much less power than the EVGA 680i motherboard is a huge plus. The included eight SATA II ports would serve most users’ needs and the versatile eSATA ports would be a great tool to use. What we love the most is the silent heat pipe which works efficiently keeping the chipsets running cool while keeping the noise to absolutely silent.”

Compared to the GA-P35-DS3P, a fine motherboard in its own right, the DS4 features a much more elaborate cooling system, but is otherwise identical. Is this difference worth an extra $10? I think so.

Click here to read the full review.

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Logitech G15 Keyboard Review

October 23, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Boot Daily has posted a review of the Logitech G15 keyboard.

Let’s see what they had to say:

“All in all, the best thing about the G15 is the feel – its keys are smooth and its sense of sturdiness. The glitz and glamour of it will undoubtedly appeal to some folks and help them feel better about shelling out 100bux for it, but for those of us whom depend on an ultra-responsive, accurate keyboard, nothing else we’ve seen so far comes close.”

Until the Razer Lycosa is officially released, the G15 is unmatched when it comes to gaming keyboards.

Click here to read the full review.

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Ultra High-End PSU Roundup

October 23, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Anandtech has posted a comparison of three 1200W+ power supplies, from Cooler Master, PC Power & Cooling, and Tagan.

Here’s what they had to say:

“Having seen these three power supplies now we can't really come up with a real suggestion which one to buy. All of them managed to deliver the rated power and even a little bit more. In the end the user has to decide which one will best fit their needs, although perhaps the more pertinent question to ask here is if there is really a need for huge power supplies like this at all? Just as not everyone needs quad-core processors, multiple graphics cards, extreme overclocking, and/or a dozen hard drives running in multiple RAID arrays, there are plenty of computer users that will likely never need anything near 1000W of power for their home computer.”

Honestly, no matter your choice, you cannot go wrong with these three power supplies. They are all immensely powerful, highly efficient units.

Click here to read the full article.

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MSI Introduces GX600 Notebook

October 23, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

MSI has just revealed the new GX600 gaming-oriented notebook.

Here’s what they had to say:

“MSI GX600 is the premiere Turbobook in the world with MSI's exclusive Turbo Drive Engine Technology. While the GX600 is in CPU Turbo Mode, just press the silver turbo button above the keyboard and you can simultaneously increase the speed of you CPU and the system up by 20%. Your computer can run smoothly to the very best of its abilities. Your computer can run smoothly to the very best of its abilities. In battery mode, pressing the silver turbo button above the keyboard can switch to Power-Saving Mode, thus extending the battery operating time for an additional 15%, so running on your battery power is no longer a compunctious experience.”

Featuring a Core 2 Duo processor, distinctive W-A-S-D buttons, a Geforce 8600M GT graphic card, 15.4" widescreen display, 5.1 channel headphone output, and a flashy exterior, the GX600 certainly has all the required specifications to be a solid gaming notebook. It will be interesting to see what the reviewers have to say.

Click here to read the press release.

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Nokia Releases N81 Series

October 23, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Nokia has just released the highly-anticipated gaming-centric N81 and N81 8GB smartphones.

Here’s what they had to say:

“Mobile entertainment just got more fun with the Nokia N81 and Nokia N81 8GB multimedia computers now available globally. Designed for the best in music and gaming, these devices come with dedicated music and game keys and are loaded with memory so you can store more and play more.”

Nokia is definitely on a roll, first the N95 8GB, then the N810 internet tablet, and now the N81 series. Regardless of whether you’re interested in the N-Gage game services, these are impressive offerings; featuring an undeniably sleek design, touch-sensitive navigation pad, large 2.4” screen, WiFi, HSDPA, 3.5mm port, stereo speakers, and a 2MP camera.

Click here to read the press release.

Click here to check out a preview.

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Lian-Li PC-A12 Case Review

October 22, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Hexus has posted a review of the Lian-Li PC-A12 case.

Here’s what they had to say:

“The PC-A12 is a good chassis and we like it. It's quiet and functional, pretty to look at and easy to work with. Hopefully, soon, it will be stocked more widely, by which time you may be able to find it for under £80. However, unless you're a aluminium addict, you might think that there's better value currently available from a steel chassis, perhaps most notably the Antec P182.

But lovers of aluminium (among whom we number ourselves) who don't need water-cooling or a huge multi-featured case might think that the PC-A12 will do the job very nicely - and would likely be right.”

Like all Lian-Li cases, the PC-A12 places its attractive aluminium design at the forefront of its offering. The case has a few minor shortcomings, but they will go unnoticed by the majority of users.

Click here to read the full review.
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Zalman VF1000 LED Video Card Cooler Review

October 22, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

MadShrimps has posted a review of the Zalman VF1000 LED video card cooler.

Let’s see what they had to say:

“With the VF1000 LED, Zalman took their VF video card heatsink series to the latest iteration. A dual slot cooling device was born existing out of a full copper heatsink combined with a regular 80mm led fan. In our tests we saw how it could decrease the standard G80 GPU temperature with 15°C compared to the stock NVIDIA heatsink, while the noise level remained acceptable. Not only that, those who are keen on silenced computing could easily lower the noise created by this cooling device while keeping better then stock cooling performance.”

Although this is an excellent cooler, I can’t really recommend it over the similarly expensive Thermalright HR-03 Plus, since the latter comes with 12 aluminium memory heatsinks, while Zalman’s memory heatsinks are a separate $30 purchase.

Click here to read the full review.
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Top 20 3DMark06/PCMark05 Movers & Shakers

October 22, 2007 - Joe "OuTkAsT-1" Topolnisky

Breaking out the spotlight tonight, we continue our weekly look at the top 3DMark06 and PCMark05 scores submitted to the online result browser (ORB). And keeping things interesting this week, we have three new entries to share with everyone. So let's take a look at who did what, shall we?

New to the 3DMark06 Top 20:
10. 24605 Denny aka guess2098 TAIWAN | INTEL QX9650 | ATI HD2900XT | GSKILL DDR3 HZ | ASUS Blitz
17. 23694 Pedro Rocha - Aquapc - Q6700 G0 - X2900CF Stock

And sneaking into the PCMark05 Top 20:
20. 14277 qx6700@3.8 2 x 8800gts

Congrats to this week's chart climbers! Your tireless effers are sure paying off. :D

Catch you next time. And remember to visit our Hall of Fame for updates to the top scores throughout the week.
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Zotac 8800GTX Amp! Edition Review

October 22, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Driver Heaven has posted a review of the Zotac 8800GTX Amp! Edition video card.

Let’s see what they had to say:

“If you thought the 8800GTX was no longer capable of running the latest and greatest games you were obviously mistaken. The Zotac 8800GTX AMP! Edition proved not only that the card is more than able of running anything you throw at it, but also that the reference cooler can still sustain a substantial overclock.”

If you can find it, the Zotac 8800GTX Amp! Edition is definitely a solid product, surpassed only by other pre-overclocked offerings from BFG, EVGA, and XFX.

Click here to read the full review.

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Antec Neopower 650W Blue Power Supply Review

October 22, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Hardware Canucks has just reviewed the Antec Neopower 650W Blue power supply.

Here’s what they had to say:

“Considering its price of less than $140, it represents a phenomenal value for the performance it provided right across all of our tests. At lower loads, it is the most efficient power supply we have ever tested even though its efficiency decreased as load increased. The voltage regulation and ripple suppression are beyond reproach and really highlight how well the Neopower can handle nearly anything you can throw at it. To make matters even better, Antec provides a 5-year warranty. The final icing on the cake is the inclusion of an 8-pin PCI-E connector which we have seen far too little of on power supplies which are above the Neopower Blue in terms of price.”

Featuring excellent performance, quiet operation, a solid warranty, and a reasonable price, the Neopower Blue 650W seems like another quality power supply from Antec.

Click here to read the full review.

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Hiper Anubis Case Review

October 22, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Hardware Logic has posted a review of the Hiper Anubis case.

Let’s see what they had to say:

“In the cutthroat computing industry we live in today, it is extremely rare to see a company design and manufacture a product that breaks all the rules and achieves fantastic results. The Anubis is a one-of-a-kind Mid-ATX chassis solution produced by a company who’s never made an ATX form factor case before, but with few exceptions, you'd never know it. With a bevy of features that the heavyweights of the enclosure industry should pay attention to, the Anubis is no joke; this case is for real, and is laying the smack down on its competition.”

For a first effort, this is a very impressive offering from Hiper. I like the distinctive design, and hope they can address the minor issues with a product update.

Click here to read the full review.

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Asus PG221 22-inch LCD Monitor Review

October 21, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Hot Hardware has posted a review of the Asus PG221 22-inch widescreen LCD monitor.

Let’s see what they had to say:

“We think the Asus PG211 is a top-notch LCD monitor with a couple of problems. Image quality is generally very good, the pixel response time is fast and ghosting is basically nonexistent, and aesthetically the PG221 is sure to please. The screen's glare-type coating is neither a benefit nor a detriment depending on your particular preference (we like it), and the speakers are far superior to any other integrated solution we've heard to date. And the built-in webcam is a definite plus as well for those inclined to use it. A couple of niggling issues prevent the PG221 from stealing the show, however. They may look great, but the occasional unresponsiveness of the touch-sensitive controls was annoying. The PG221’s stand only offers minimal adjustment and at approximately $580, the PG221 is at the upper-end of the price scale for 22” displays.”

While this is an excellent product, it’s way too expensive. For $200-250 less, there are a number of solid 22-inch LCD monitors on the market.

Click here to read the full review.

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Thermalright HR-03 Plus VGA Cooler Review

October 21, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

X-bit Labs has posted a review of the Thermalright HR-03 Plus VGA cooler.

Here’s what they had to say:

“I liked the cooler even with the above mentioned drawbacks. It delivers higher performance and is quieter than the stock GeForce 8800 cooler. And I guess many owners of such graphics cards are viewing the photos in this article and thinking if they could attach a 120mm rather than a 90mm fan to it. I think the only serious drawback of the new cooler is that the hot air is not exhausted outside as is the case with the reference GeForce 8800 cooler, but this is a rather subjective thing and should be evaluated for a particular system case with its system fans. The heavy weight of the cooler and its blocking of three neighboring expansion slots are drawbacks, too. As for the price, the HR-03 Plus matches the price of the graphics cards it is meant for. Expensive cards can’t be cooled with cheap coolers.”

While this is one of the only VGA coolers to support the GeForce 8800 series, the ~$55 USD price tag is excessive. Personally, I would wait for Arctic Cooling to release a compatible Accelero S-series model.

Click here to read the full review.

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Antec Sonata Designer 500 Case Review

October 21, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

3DGameMan.com has posted a video review of the Antec Sonata Designer 500 case.

Let’s see what they had to say:

"The Antec Sonata Designer 500 Case is mostly steel, comes with a white paint finish and has a brushed aluminum front bezel. This front bezel is unique because it can be removed and replaced. There are five different color choices to choose from; Blue, Orange, Green, Pink and White. It even has an included Antec EarthWatts™ 500 Watt power supply. Its 80+ certified so it’s extremely efficient, has Active PFC and is quiet. This PSU is more than adequate for most computer builds. Watch the video to find out more and check out the bloopers at the end."

While I’m not a big fan of the white paint and blue highlights, this is still a very well designed case. The included power supply is a high-quality unit, and can easily power all mainstream configurations.

Click here to read the full review.
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Zalman CNPS8700 LED CPU Cooler Review

October 21, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Silent PC Review has posted a review of the Zalman CNPS8700 LED CPU cooler.

Let’s see what they had to say:

“Taking into consideration its height and weight, the CNPS8700 is an excellent cooler, achieving better results than expected. It can't quite compete with larger, taller heatsinks, but isn't left in the dust either. It's relatively compact, beautiful to look at and provides very good cooling not just for the CPU but for the components around it. The lack of such cooling is a bit of a concern on many tower heatsinks with fans that don't blow down toward the motherboard but, rather, across it. This is especially true when such heatsinks are combined with very slow fans that blow little air (as so many PC silencers are apt to do).”

This is a decent heatsink is most respects, however it is simply too expensive. For less money, you can buy superior heatsinks such as the Thermalright Ultima-90 or Xigmatek HDT-S1283.

Click here to read the full review.

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Lian-Li PC-C32 HTPC Case Review

October 21, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Virtual-Hideout has posted a review of the new Lian-Li PC-C32 HTPC case.

Here’s what they had to say:

“As always, I had high expectations for this Lian-Li case. Since this is a desktop/HTPC case, my expectations were somewhat different. If you are looking for a case like this, you aren't looking for tons of storage and water-cooling; you're looking for a sturdy, quality case that's easy to work inside of, is capable of properly holding your precious HTPC parts and looks good enough to fit in with the rest of your equipment. On these points, the PC-C32 certainly delivers.

The ability to use full-size ATX motherboards and regular ATX PSUs is probably the most important feature. Often, HTPC cases support only microATX motherboards and PSUs. The PC-C32's support of regular-sized parts makes it an ideal choice for a wide variety of parts. However, this comes at the cost of a larger foot-print; the PC-C32 will take up a good chunk of area.”

As far as I know, this is the only HTPC case that not only comes with two 120MM fans, but also has an open spot for a 140MM fan. This ensures quiet operation, which was not always possible with past HTPC cases that utilized 60MM or 80MM fans.

Click here to read the full review.

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OCZ Vanquisher CPU Cooler

October 19, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Modders-Inc has posted a review of the OCZ Vanquisher CPU cooler.

Let’s see what they had to say:

“Hows the OCZ Vanquisher stack up? Well I am kind of sitting on the fence as they would say. The Vanquisher has a great look and I love the design of the cage style fan mount / grill. I would have liked to seen the screws not round out so easily, or not be screwed in so tightly. Performance wise the Vanquisher did moderately well at every point excluding the core temp. With the copper base being relatively rough, I kind of expected it to elevate one or two of the temperatures. With the core temp showing 54C and the CPU temp showing 39C, I just don't think the heat was transferring as good as it could have with a better finish on the base.”

Back in late August, OCZ unveiled the Vanquisher. Was the wait worth it? Well since this cooler is based on the 2-year-old Freezer 7 Pro design, its cooling performance is not particularly noteworthy.

Click here to read the full review.

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DFI UT P35-T2R Motherboard Review

October 19, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Anandtech has just posted a review of the awesome DFI UT P35-T2R motherboard.

Here’s what they had to say:

“AnandTech is pleased to present our Silver Editor's Choice to the DFI UT P35-T2R. This board, in our opinion, best represents the pinnacle of performance, stability, and features of what is currently achievable with the Intel P35 chipset. But more importantly, DFI made no qualms about the fact that this board was specifically targeted to the overclocking enthusiast and then succeeded in delivering a product to meet their needs. We congratulate DFI on holding true to their roots and taking a marketing gamble by delivering this motherboard to a limited audience, although we still believe the price could be improved and certainly their time to market although we understand DFI wanting to make sure the board is ready before shipment.”

Obviously, no other motherboard on the market comes even close to offering the ‘tweakability’ of the P35-T2R. If you place overclocking above all else, this motherboard is definitely worth a look.

Click here to read the full review.
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OCZ Introduces New Titanium Edition DDR2 Memory Kits

October 19, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

OCZ has just announced two new Titanium edition DDR2 memory kits.

Here’s what they had to say:

“As part of the OCZ Titanium series, the PC2-6400 CL3 Edition modules are engineered to satisfy the demands of overclockers and enthusiasts, delivering the tight latencies and speed gamers require for today’s graphic-intensive DirectX 10 PC games. The PC2-6400 Titanium CL3 Edition tackles your toughest computing experience at blistering 3-4-4 timings at 800MHz, offering superior bandwidth and stability on the latest platforms.

For enthusiasts shifting to Vista and who need the performance of high speed memory, the PC2-6400 Titanium 4GB kit is the ideal upgrade from the standard 2GB of RAM. The OCZ PC-6400 4GB Titanium series was developed to provide a superior computing experience that ensures the best possible gaming and productivity, and at incredible 4-4-4 timings offers tighter timings than typical 4GB kits.”

The 4GB 4-4-4 memory kit certainly looks promising, and should be a popular seller if priced reasonably.

Click here to read the press release.
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Sony Ericsson K850i Cybershot Review

October 19, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Mobile Tech Review has just posted a review of the new Sony Ericsson K850i Cybershot mobile phone.

Let’s see what they had to say:

“The K850i improves significantly on the Cybershot K790i it replaces. Though on the surface it looks like a face-lifted version of the K790i and K800i, inside there's a lot of good new stuff going on: the 5MP camera with improved still images and much improved video, quad band phone rather than triband, worldwide 3G with HSDPA, the new media player (we love the interface), improved music player, Bluetooth A2DP and a much brighter and a bit bigger display. This is a phone it's hard not to like.”

While lacking some of the productivity features of modern smartphones, this is a powerful multimedia device. The inclusion of North American 3G bands is definitely a welcome change from Sony Ericsson.

Click here to read the full review.

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Twelve-Way AMD 690G Motherboard Roundup

October 18, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Digit-Life has just compared twelve AMD 690G-based motherboards.

Here’s what they had to say:

"Since we have already tested over a dozen motherboards on AMD 690G/690V, and they have become widespread in stores, it's high time for the roundup. We separated motherboards into two groups: multimedia PC & media center solutions (HDMI, FireWire, etc.) and cheaper OEM products with just basic multimedia features."

The AMD 690G is definitely a capable chipset, with plenty of HTPC-oriented features. If you’re going the AMD route, this roundup is not to be missed.

Click here to read the full article.

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OCZ HydroJet CPU Cooler Preview

October 18, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Hardware Secrets has just posted a first look at the prototype OCZ HydroJet CPU cooler.

Here’s what they had to say:

“Six months ago we talked about a prototype from a CPU cooler from OCZ called HydroJet. Now OCZ showed us a new prototype for the same product, being somewhat different from the first version we saw, seeming to be the final version that will reach the market. So let’s take a look on the new HydroJet CPU cooler prototype from OCZ.”

It’s definitely a distinctive design, it will be interesting to see how it performs.

Click here to check it out.
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ASUS Blitz Formula Motherboard Review

October 18, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

TweakTown has just posted a review of the ASUS Blitz Formula, an Intel P35 Express motherboard.

Here’s what they had to say:

“Overall, if you’re aiming for a cheaper solution than the X38 with Crossfire, this board wins out hand down over all other P35 boards in the market. You just need to decide if you need the DDR2 version in the Formula or the DDR3 version in the Extreme.”

While the Blitz Formula may be a terrific motherboard, the new X38-based ASUS Maximus Formula SE is only ~$10 more, and will undoutedbly provide better CrossFire performance.

Click here to read the full review.

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Nokia Announces N810 Internet Tablet

October 18, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Nokia has just announced a successor to its well received N800 internet tablet, the N810.

Here’s what they had to say:

“Nokia today introduced the Nokia N810 Internet Tablet, signifying a new phase in portable internet communication. You have ability to connect this pocket-sized device to the nearest Wi-Fi hotspot or over your Bluetooth mobile phone. The Nokia N810 allows you to make internet calls; check your Google Mail or Facebook Account; watch the latest videos on YouTube or update your blog using the device's slide-out keyboard along with its stunning touch screen. Its built-in maps and satellite navigation helps you to find your way. It is expected to start shipping mid November with an estimated retail price of 479 USD (excluding local taxes).”

Featuring a slide-out QWERTY keyboard, integrated GPS, and a new OS, this is a terrific update to the N800, and a nice alternative to pricier UMPC’s.

Click here to read the press release.
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Gigabyte U60 UMPC Review

October 17, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

If you need a device that is less bulky than a notebook, but more functional than a smartphone or PDA, then a ultra-mobile PC (UMPC) might be for you. TweakTown has just posted a review of the new Gigabyte U60 UMPC.

Let’s see what they had to say:

“After using this device I feel confident that it has a place in the market. The price point is exceptional and will give any customer a sense of having bought what they paid for, with a bit extra for good measure. That kind of feeling is the reason I shop. I have no hesitation in giving the TweakTown “BEST VALUE!” award to this unique product.”

The author seems quite enamored with this device, but is it right for you? Well click here to read the full review.

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Intel Core 2 Duo E4500 M0 Stepping CPU Review

October 17, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

As some of you may know, the Intel E4500 processor is based on the new M0 stepping. Well MadShrimps has just reviewed this new chip to see how it performs.

Here’s what they had to say:

“9, 10 or 11 multiplier (Intel E4300, E4400 and E4500) is the question; a One Dollar question. That is the price difference at Geeks Computer Parts at time of this article was written. I believe all of the three processors are winners if they could run at 3.2GHz at slightly above default voltage. I'd rather take the E4500 because it runs at a mere 1.185 volt at higher default speed.

For the adventurers, this $123 processor will certainly make your day with high end cooling gears if it happens that the one you pick as the low end voltage range. But, chances are pretty good. Best of luck.”

While 3.2Ghz cannot be considered bad, the M0 stepping is nothing special. I distinctly remember that the early batch of E4300’s, based on the L2 stepping, overclocked as well, if not better.

Click here to read the full review.
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Nokia Announces Touch User Interface

October 17, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

As the Apple iPhone has demonstrated, a touch-based interface is a Love It or Hate It feature, but it is the way of the future. Case in point, Nokia has just announced their own touch user interface.

Let’s see what they had to say:

“The touch user interface in S60 smartphone software offers licensees the opportunity to develop devices with a variety of input methods, whether it is a touch screen with a traditional keypad, touch screen with a qwerty keyboard or touch screen alone, supporting both finger or stylus optimized input, in addition to the range of access options that already exist today.

S60 touch user interface comes with support for tactile feedback, which means that there is a physical pulse and feedback when the user taps on the screen. This provides better awareness of the device's response improving the user experience.”

Click here to see a video of the presentation.

Click here to read the press release.
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Intel Reports Q3 Financial Results

October 17, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

For you investors out there, Intel has just released their third-quarter financial report.

Here’s what they had to say:

“SANTA CLARA, Calif., Oct. 16, 2007 – Intel Corporation today announced third-quarter revenue of $10.1 billion, operating income of $2.2 billion, net income of $1.9 billion and earnings per share (EPS) of 31 cents.”

As previously expected, this has been another exceptional quarter for Intel. The company definitely appears to be executing its plans perfectly, and there’s no reason to suspect that this will change in the foreseeable future.

Click here to read the press release.

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Corsair Announces TX Power Supply Series

October 17, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Corsair has finally announced their TX series of power supplies!

Here’s what they had to say:

“The Corsair TX Series of power supplies delivers optimal performance through the use of advanced technology and industrial-grade components typically found only with more expensive power supplies. With design features, such as a dedicated single +12V rail, the TX Series offers the maximum compatibility with the latest system components. Energy-efficient circuitry capable of delivering greater than 80% efficiency ratings across 20%, 50%, and 100% load conditions make the TX Series of Power Supply Units (PSUs) ideal for high-end PCs using dual-graphics cards for both gaming and professional audio and video applications.

Available in 650Watt and 750Watt models, the Corsair TX Series delivers clean and reliable, fully rated output even at 50ºC ambient temperature. Additionally, the TX Series includes two and four PCI-Express 8-pin (6+2) cables on the 650W and 750W models respectively. The TX Series has been thoroughly tested and is compatible with today’s NVIDIA’s SLI® and ATI’s Crossfire® solutions.”

I can’t wait to see some reviews, hopefully the TX series will build upon the exceptional reputation Corsair has garnered with the HX models.

Click here to read the press release.
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Corsair HX1000W Power Supply Preview

October 16, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Hardware Secrets has managed to get a hold of a pre-production Corsair HX1000W power supply.

Let’s see what they had to say:

“Corsair will launch its 1,000-watt power supply by the end of this year and we had the privilege of taking a look on how this new unit will look like before everybody else, including pictures, a glimpse of the architecture it will use and its basic specs. Basically it will have true dual +12 V rails, with two independent transformers and two independent set of rectifiers for each transformer. Read on.”

Judging by Corsair’s current power supplies, the HX1000W will almost certainly be a class-leading product. I definitely look forward to reading reviews of this model, as well as Corsair’s upcoming 650W and 750W models.

Click here to read the full article.

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Nokia Releases N95 8GB

October 16, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Unless you have been living under a rock, you’ve undoubtedly heard about Nokia’s amazing N95 super-phone. Well Nokia has just begun shipping an updated N95 featuring 8GB of internal memory, a larger screen, and sexy black exterior.

Here’s what they had to say:

“Boasting up to eight gigabytes of built-in memory, the Nokia N95 8GB has all the key features of its predecessor, including a 5 megapixel camera with Carl Zeiss optics, built-in A-GPS, WLAN, HSDPA and an innovative 2-way slide. The sleek black N95 8GB also boasts a luminous 2.8" (240 x 320) QVGA display, so watching videos, browsing the Internet or viewing maps is a real pleasure. With its expanded memory, the N95 8GB offers up to 20 hours of video or up to 6000 songs.

Entertaining yourself has taken on a whole new meaning with this multimedia computer, optimized for enjoying videos, playing games, or even locating your favorite destinations with A-GPS.”

The 795USD/560EUR price is certainly high, but you are getting the most feature-packed device on the planet.

Click here to read the press release.

Click here to check out the product page.

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New AMD Phenom Details

October 16, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

DailyTech has just posted some new information regarding AMD’s upcoming Phenom processors.

Here’s what they had to say:

“AMD plans to debut its initial quad-core Phenom processors in late November: the Phenom 9600 and 9500. The 9600 will come clocked at 2.4GHz and the 9500 will have a slightly lower operating frequency of 2.2GHz.

Both Socket AM2+ processors feature a 512KB of L2 cache for each core and a shared 2MB pool of L3 cache. In addition, both processors will operate on a 3.6GHz HyperTransport bus and will have an 89 Watt Thermal Design Power envelope.”

It’s good to see the clock rates slowly improving, however significant improvements still need to be made if AMD expects to take the performance crown.

Click here to read the full article.
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ZEROtherm Nirvana NV120 CPU Cooler Review

October 16, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

German site Cooling-Station has posted a review of the new ZEROtherm Nirvana NV120 CPU cooler.

Let’s see what they had to say:

“The ZEROtherm Nirvana NV120 Premium CCU radiator is to come for€ 39,90 into the shops. That is probably a clear challenge against the competition. The price/achievement relationship is absolutely correct for such a product.

The uniform optics of radiator Finns, Heatpipes and radiator soil round the overall view of the ZEROtherm Nirvana NV120 Premium CCU of radiator off.

We can express hereby a purchase recommendation for the ZEROtherm Nirvana NV120 Premium CCU radiator.”

Please bear in mind that this article has been translated, thus there are naturally some bizarre sentences.

It looks like ZEROtherm has wisely chosen to ditch the awkward butterfly design that adorns their BTF series. Performance-wise, the NV120 appears to be extremely competitive, and should easily rank in the Top 10 coolers on the market. I can’t wait to see if ZEROtherm releases a completely copper model…

Click here to read the full review.

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Unreal Tournament 3 Performance Preview

October 16, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

PC Perspective has posted an interesting Unreal Tournament 3 performance preview, featuring a variety of ATI and Nvidia GPUs.

Here’s what they had to say:

“That being said, if you want to blow away your senses and get the top image quality settings with that super-smooth frame rate we all desire, then NVIDIA's 8800 GTX card is the way to go. Our hours of gaming with it were sheer joy and I have no problems calling it the best graphics card for Unreal Tournament 3, period. Runners up include AMD's HD 2900 XT and NVIDIA's 8800 GTS cards, both the 640MB and 320MB versions. This is one of the few times that AMD can claim the HD 2900 XT can consistently outperform the 8800 GTS card, and the fact that it is in a huge title like UT3 is good news. The mid-range cards we tested, the NV 8600 GTS and AMD 2600 XT, provided acceptable game play experiences even though they were noticeably slower than the other four cards.”

It’s worth a look if you are interested in this highly anticipated game.

Click here to read the full article.
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Inside Look At Nvidia's Testing Facilities

October 15, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

FiringSquad has posted a terrific article in which they ‘go behind closed doors’ at Nvidia’s testing facilities.

Here’s what they had to say:

“NVIDIA releases a new product, on average, every 6 months. Sometimes sooner, sometimes later. But what goes on behind the scenes to make this happen? Earlier this week, we had the opportunity to find out exactly what happens behind NVIDIA’s closed doors. We were given almost unrestricted access to NVIDIA’s many labs and their high-performance computing center; what we saw was impressive.”

Definitely a worthwhile read for those interested.

Click here for the full article.

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Microsoft Sidewinder Mouse Review

October 15, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Bit-Tech has just posted a review of the new Microsoft Sidewinder gaming mouse.

Let’s see what they had to say:

“Technically the Sidewinder is a good mouse and on paper it has all the features one might look for – on the fly DPI, thumb buttons and an ergonomic design which isn’t entirely uncomfortable to use. On top of this it adds a load of features which range from pseudo-useful to the downright annoying, such as the weight system and Game Explorer button.

The mouse even performs quite well and I tested it across a number of games in the week I had it on my desk, including the awesome Team Fortress 2.

However, the mouse isn’t exactly the most comfortable to use and the Intellipoint software hinges on being needlessly elaborate. Some of the features, the Game Explorer button in particular, are entirely stupid and do absolutely nothing for us. The overall look of the mouse is also a bit repugnant, which makes the price even more annoying. The Sidewinder costs around £40 in the UK or $65 in the US.”

Whether you like this mouse is a matter of personal preference, and you should probably test out its ergonomics in a store. Having said that, I love the little cable management box and wish other manufacturers would offer something similar.

Click here to read the full review.

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Gigabyte GA-P31-DS3L Motherboard Review

October 15, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Virtual-Hideout has just posted a review of the Gigabyte GA-P31-DS3L motherboard.

Let’s see what they had to say:

“In short, I have never had such a solid board come across my test bench at this price point. This board is just screaming to be paired with a budget CPU and overclocked to get premium performance at a fraction of the cost. I highly recommend this board to any builder on a budget, that is not looking to sacrifice BIOS configuration options, or board quality.”

While we don’t often hear about the P31 Express chipset in enthusiast circles, it is essentially identical to the P35 Express, aside from not supporting DDR3, and featuring the older ICH7 southbridge. Considering the fact that P31 motherboards are ~$30 cheaper than P35 models, and offer similar performance, they are easy to recommend for those on a budget. The fact that this particular motherboard overclocks well and features all-solid capacitors makes it an excellent choice.

Click here to read the full review.

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Antazone AS-N1000 & AS-N2000 Northbridge Coolers Review

October 15, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Tweak News has posted a review of the Antazone AS-N1000 and AS-N2000 copper heatpipe northbridge coolers.

Here’s what they had to say:

“I have to admit, my expectations for these coolers was pretty low after my headaches with Antazone's AS-C1000 CPU cooler. I am very pleased to say that both coolers made me seriously reevaluate those preconceptions. With performance at this level I have no issues recommending both the AS-N1000 and AS-N2000 to anyone looking for a good passive cooling solution. The only failing the products have to my mind is the poor grammar on the website and box information. I guess it just goes to show, don't judge a product by its packaging.”

I really don’t like the fact that the screws go through the base, since it undoubtedly impedes cooling performance. Nevertheless, these coolers do seem to perform quite respectably. Whether they are a better purchase than the similarly priced Thermalright HR-05/IFX comes down to personal preferences and clearance issues.

Click here to read the full review.
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Logitech G9 Gaming Mouse Review

October 15, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Benchmark Reviews has just reviewed the Logitech G9 gaming mouse.

Here’s what they had to say:

“In conclusion, the Logitech G9 3200 dpi Laser USB Gaming Mouse receives my highest recommendation. It easily replaced my G5 mouse, and I have been extremely happy with the convenience and wide range of feature. Among the most favorite items integrated into the G9 is the free-rolling scroll wheel. There's nothing I like more than giving it a good spin to navigate down pages with complete ease. The G9 has also added a few advantage points to my gaming, thanks to the very wide-range of dpi settings. If you are serious about your mousing needs, then the Logitech G9 is going to be the best solution I can recommend to you.”

This is definitely the wired gaming mouse to buy, at least until the Razer Lachesis is available in November.

Click here to read the full review.

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Top 20 3DMark06/PCMark05 Movers & Shakers

October 15, 2007 - Joe "OuTkAsT-1" Topolnisky

Today we continue our weekly look at the top 3DMark06 and PCMark05 scores submitted to the online result browser (ORB). Things were very quiet this past week, with only one new entry to share. So who's getting the sole spotlight tonight? Read on:

Jumping from 6th to 2nd in the PCMark05 Top 20:
2. 19087 OANVOANC

A big congrats to OANVOANC for that impressive chart-climbing score! Keep up the great work. :D

And remember to visit our Hall of Fame for updates to the top scores throughout the week.
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Ultra X3 1000W Power Supply Review

October 14, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Hot Hardware has posted a review of the Ultra X3 1000W modular power supply.

Here’s what they had to say:

“The modular design and ultra flexible cabling also makes the unit an excellent candidate, especially when cable management is a concern. We were also impressed with the near silent operation as well as its overall efficiency. With a 1000w peak rating, the X3 can handle the load of most any system with room to grow as technology evolves. The unit is also backed by a limited lifetime warranty; all things considered the Ultra X3 1000w Power Supply is an attractive option for anyone looking for a quality Power Supply Unit.

Selling in the neighborhood of $250, the X3 is actually priced competitively with other 1000w PSUs. Backed with quality features and an excellent warranty, the Ultra X3 certainly represents a solid value.”

I have only heard positive things about the Ultra X3 1000W, and considering its price, it’s easy to recommend.

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PC3-14400 DDR3 Memory Kits Reviewed

October 14, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Anandtech has just reviewed three PC3-14400 DDR3 memory kits, from Cell Shock, Corsair, and Kingston.

Here’s what they had to say:

“With the three additional Micron-based memory kits tested in this review a total of five Z9-based memory kits have been tested at AnandTech. All five reach DDR3-2000 or above as their highest stable memory speed. Today's three kits, all released in a similar time frame, reach 2044/2040/2040 as their highest speed - the same as slightly older OCZ at 2040MHz. Even more amazing is the tight clustering of timings and voltages at every tested memory speed with these 2GB kits. Every kit reaches all but the same timings at the same speed at virtually the same voltage. These results are the most tightly clustered performance results we have ever seen in many years of testing memory.”

In summary, as long as your DDR3 memory kit has Micron Z9 chips, it should overclock and perform very well.

Click here to read the full article.
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CrossFire Comparison: Intel X38 vs. P35

October 14, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Bit-Tech has just posted an interesting article comparing the CrossFire performance of the Intel X38 and P35 chipsets.

Let’s see what they had to say:

“I'm genuinely surprised, that the extra bandwidth actually does make a difference in some areas, but it didn't surprise us that there were cases where it didn't make any difference. Obviously we have the latency difference between motherboards and marginal extra performance the X38 brings, to take into account too, but the general consensus is you will likely see some improvement the more bandwidth you throw at CrossFire.”

There are a few interesting revelations, it’s worth a look.

Click here to read the full article.

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19-inch LCD Monitor Roundup

October 14, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

X-bit Labs has just posted a new 19-inch LCD monitor comparison.

Let’s see what they had to say:

“Among the models with a standard screen resolution I’d like to single out the HP LP1965. It has a *VA matrix, which is currently rare in 19” monitors. Of course, its price is higher than that of TN-based models, but the user gains excellent viewing angles he can’t get from a TN matrix, a good and fast matrix with a low level of RTC errors, and wide setup opportunities. The LP1965 leaves an impression of a well-made product for both home and office that is going to satisfy most users.

It’s hard to name a leader among the other monitors with a resolution of 1280x1024 because each of them has certain drawbacks. BenQ’s FP91G +U and FP93G S have poor color reproduction. The NEC LCD1970VX has rather inaccurate gamma curves while the ViewSonic VA903b has a slow matrix even in comparison with the other monitors none of which has Response Time Compensation. So, if you are looking for an inexpensive monitor, you should be ready to choose the best from the worst.”

Since this is part 8 of an on-going series, this article is not to be missed if you are in the market for a 19” LCD monitor.

Click here to read the full article.
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OCZ ATV Turbo Flash Drive Review

October 12, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Looking for a quick and durable USB flash drive? Well 3DGameMan.com has just reviewed the promising OCZ ATV Turbo.

Let’s see what they had to say:

“The OCZ ATV Turbo Flash Drive comes with ReadyBoost technology which is great for those who have little system memory. Many USB2 drives still do not incorporate dual channel technology, but this one does. This results in a substantial performance increase over non-dual channel flash drives. It even has a thick waterproof rubber casing which makes it virtually indestructible.”

The external design is a little tacky for my liking, but this flash drive is undeniably fast. It looks like Corsair’s Voyager GT finally has some competition.

Click here to read the full review.
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Sennheiser HD-280 Pro Headphones Review

October 12, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Not everyone has the money or space for an elaborate PC speaker system, so for those people a pair of high-quality headphones is essential. With this in mind, Bjorn3D has just posted a review of the Sennheiser HD-280 Pro headphones.

Here’s what they had to say:

“Sennheiser’s line of professional headphones keeps getting better and less expensive. The HD-280 Pros represent a benchmark for the company where price and performance have found a very benevolent relationship. Recording musicians on a budget will be hard pressed to acquire a better pair of circumaural headphones at this price, and if you’re comfortable with refurbished gear, the HD-280 Pros can be picked up for as little as $60.”

Anyone who is familiar with Sennheiser is likely not surprised to hear that the HD-280 Pro’s are fantastic headphones. If they fit your budget, buy them.

Click here to read the full review.

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NZXT Precise Power 1200W Power Supply Review

October 12, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

As a relatively new addition to the ever expanding number of 1200W+ power supplies, the NZXT Precise Power 1200W has just been reviewed by ThinkComputers.

Here’s what they had to say:

“Knowing NZXT's reputation for producing quality products it is good to see they put that same quality into their power supplies. The build of the power supply is superb, it is modular, you have sleeved cables, a big but quiet 120mm fan, a ton of connectors, active PFC, PCI-E connectors that are compatible with the latest graphics cards, and who cannot forget the badass gun metal finish.

Now a power supply can have all of these things and still not perform well. The Precise Power is as solid as a ROCK! When we put it through our tests it passed flawlessly. Not to mention the 1200W should last you a while!”

While NZXT is not one of the better-known power supply manufacturers, they have done a terrific job with this unit. I’m still not a fan of the multi 12V rail design, but this model has been widely praised for its superior voltage regulation and excellent build quality. Having said, I still think that 1200W power supplies are unnecessary luxuries, even for the most hardcore enthusiasts.

Click here to read the full review.

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Scythe Katana 2 CPU Cooler Review

October 12, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Hardware Logic has just posted a review of the Scythe Katana 2 CPU Cooler.

Let’s see what they had to say:

“The Scythe Katana 2 would be great pickup for any enthusiast that plans on running their cooler at near-silent operation at all times, particularly HTPC enthusiast. For this crowd, it would simply be a waste of money to pick another cooler for twice as much money and leave the fan speed dialed down all the time.”

This cooler is obviously not particularly well-suited for overclocking, but it should satisfy silence lovers and casual PC users.

Click here to read the full review.
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CoolerMaster CM690 Case Review

October 12, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Our friends over at Gamepyre have posted a review of the CoolerMaster CM690 case.

Here’s what they had to say:

“Sometimes CoolerMaster has a hit, and sometimes they have a miss, like any company. The CM690 however is most definitely a hit. They managed to somehow fit everything from a full sized tower into a mid, and not sacrifice anything.

Not only are you able to fit 2 8800GTX cards in this, the placement of the fans and the case venting all around helps keep the temperature down. There's even room for a few more fans on the side, front, and even the top if you feel this case isn't staying cool enough. Speedfan reports a good 10 degree difference at idle, and the system can cool down far quicker now as well. I got the CM690 to review, but I think my computer has found a new home, and the CM690 has found itself a Gamer's Choice Gold Award for being a great value and highly functional case.”

For $80, it hard to find a serious fault with this attractive and functional case.

Click here to read the full review.
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Hotfix for 3DMark06/05/03 and PCMark05 Available!

October 11, 2007 - Nicklas Renqvist

There's a new unified hotfix available for all the latest benchmarks: 3DMark03, 3DMark05, 3DMark06 and PCMark05. The hotfix updates the following:

• Updated GPU core/memory clock detection library for enhanced compatibility and support for new hardware
• New files are:
  • Direcpll.dll (4.10.1.93)
  • Entech.sys (5.0.1.1)
  • Entech64.sys (5.0.1.1)

This hotfix does not affect any of the benchmark results. A new full install for 3DMark06 Build 1.1.0 (with the hotfix included) will soon be available. Meanwhile, you should download this hotfix and install it now.

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DX10 Gaming Performance Revisited

October 11, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

PC Perspective has posted a great article examining DX10 gaming performance, with a focus on the new ATI Catalyst 7.10 drivers.

Let’s see what they had to say about these new drivers:

“We asked and AMD was on the ball -- when we said that "AMD needed to put some work in" they were apparently doing just that. While the single card performance of the HD 2900 XT didn't improve as much as I was hoping, the fact that AMD was able to address so many CrossFire issues all at once leads me to believe that more performance gains are on the way. I can no longer say that CrossFire was a complete disappointment because the 7.10 drivers address just about all of my concerns in that regard. The AMD Radeon HD 2900 XT is definitely a stronger competitor with NVIDIA's 8800 GTS 640MB now and in only one instance (World in Conflict) did I feel the performance of the AMD card was a hindrance to the game.”

Overall, a solid analysis, definitely worth a look!

Click here to read the full article.

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Seagate Barracuda 1TB Hard Drive Review

October 11, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Our friends over at Boot Daily have posted a review of the Seagate Barracuda ES.2 1-terrabyte hard drive.

Let’s see what they had to say:

“Seagate may be a Johnny-come-late to the party but have shown how a little patience and engineering can pay off in huge performance dividends. The Barracuda ES.2 – bottom line – is the fastest 1Terrabyte drive out right now and will surely not disappoint business owners or power users whom demand the utmost in storage. It has the reputation and warranty of Seagate (5 years) with performance in spades to back it up.”

I’m surprised to see the ES.2 come out on top, since other reviews have the venerable Hitachi Deskstar 7K1000 as the clear performance winner. I guess we will have to wait a for a third party opinion!

Click here to read the full review.

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Intel X38 Express Chipset Launched

October 11, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

The Intel X38 Express chipset has officially been launched, and naturally there is a slew of articles and reviews.

So without further ado, here they are:

• AnandTech.
• Elite Bastards.
• ExtremeTech.
• Firing Squad.
• Hot Hardware.
• Neoseeker.
• PC Perspective.
• Phoronix.
• Techgage.
• The Tech Report.

Enjoy!

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Nvidia G92 Launch Date Changed

October 11, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

I thought you might all be interested to know that Digitimes is reporting that Nvidia has moved forward the launch date of the G92 GPU, from November 12 to October 29.

Here’s what they had to say:

“Nvidia is bringing forward the launch date of its upcoming GeForce 8800 GT (G92) GPU to October 29 from the original November 12, targeting AMD's new Radeon HD 2950PRO (RV670) as the major competitor, according to sources at graphics card makers.

With G92 and RV670 having a tight performance/price ratio, Nvidia's earlier launch should give the company an advantage in the market, noted the sources.”

Good strategic move on Nvidia’s part, because a lot of people have been anxiously waiting for a competitive mainstream DX10 part.

Click here to read the article.
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Cooler Master Real Power Pro 1250W PSU Review

October 11, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

BigBruin has just posted a review of the Cooler Master Real Power Pro 1250W power supply.

Let’s see what they had to say:

“The Cooler Master Real Power Pro 1250W Power Supply may be extreme overkill for most users, but it may be just the thing for anyone with an over the top gaming rig that only has intentions of making its components even more insane as the years go by. Purchasing one of these units may be a big up front expense, but it could quite possibly save money in the long run thanks to lower electric bills and by eliminating the need for future upgrades.”

The number of 1200W & above power supplies is slowly expanding, which should help lower prices a bit. However, I still find 1200W+ PSU’s unnecessarily expensive compared to 1000W models.

Click here to read the full review.

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Razer Lycosa Gaming Keyboard & Piranha Headset Preview

October 10, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

OC Mod Shop has just taken a look at the recently announced Razer Lycosa gaming keyboard and Piranha headset.

Let’s see what they had to say:

• Lycosa gaming keyboard:
  
  

  “Razer's Tarantula gaming keyboard is easily one of the PC gamer's favorite gaming peripherals, and Razer has built on this success with the new Lycossa Gaming Keyboard.
  
  The previous Tarantula was unique in that it offered backlighting on the keys that gamers use most: the standard WASD keys used for movement. This new keyboard has a nice blue backlight on every single one of its keys, making gaming (or computing) in the dark much easier. In addition, Lycosa's keytops have a rubberized coating, which not only gives the keyboard a more comforable feel, but helps keep your sweaty fingertips securely on the buttons.”

  
  
  
• Piranha headset:
  
  

  “Razer's new Piranha gaming headset is the successor to their popular Barracuda headphones. The Piranha focuses on high-fidelity rather than Barracuda's surround technology, so this new headset is stereo only.
  
  The Piranha features in-line controls to adjust the headset volume, and there is a button to mute the microphone. The headphones have a frequency range of 18 - 22,000 Hz with an impedance of 32 ohms. The headphones are not a complete around-the-ear, but the foam pads so seal your ears to eliminate most background noise.”

Hopefully, we will see some in-depth reviews in a couple of weeks.
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Asus Triton 75 CPU Cooler Review

October 10, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Overclock3D has posted a review of the Asus Triton 75 CPU cooler.

Let’s see what they had to say:

“The Asus Triton is a competent cooler, but only once you add a fan to it. I think Asus have made a mistake marketing it as a fanless design and not including a fan in the package. If you're a quiet PC freak then I would look elsewhere.

However, combine the Triton with a decent fan and it does do well. Whether you want to get one is up to personal choice. Lack of a fan included might put you off or it might mean you can choose your own and not use the manufacturers own.

Value-wise, around £25 UK RRP is pretty good for a cooler of this stature, but I don't know how much there is for the Asus Triton 75 to stand out in a market saturated with excellent coolers.”

If you really need a passive cooler, then I would recommend the Zerotherm BTF95. It might look a little bizarre, but it’s the best passive heatsink that I know of.

Click here to read the full review.

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Sony Announces Second-Generation Blu-ray Burner

October 10, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

DailyTech is reporting that Sony has just announced a second-generation Blu-ray burner, the BWU-200S.

Here’s what they had to say:

“Sony announced today a new updated internal Blu-ray burner for PC. The new drive doubles the write speed as compared to previous Blu-ray BD-R burners inside computer systems. The new BWU-200S Blu-ray burner cuts burn time in half allowing a full 50Gb BD-R disc to be burned in about 45 minutes. Previous drives were 2x drives and the burn time was around 90 minutes for a BD-R disc.”

Although ~$600 is still a lot of money for an optical drive, it’s nice to see that improvements are being made. However, until the HD format war is settled, I would not consider anything but a dual format Blu-ray/HD-DVD drive.

Click here to read the full article.
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MSI Introduces X38 Diamond Motherboard

October 10, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

MSI has just announced its second Intel X38 Express-based motherboard, the X38 Diamond.

Here’s what they had to say:

“Micro-Star International (MSI), one of the leaders in mainboard manufacturing, launches its latest X38 Diamond mainboards based on Intel® X38 Express chipset and DDR3 structure. The new MSI X38 Diamond mainboards include the most exclusive features designed for PC enthusiast and offer users to experience the amazing advantage of "Ready for PC2008".”

Some interesting specifications:

• Intel® X38 Express Chipset Based
• Supports Intel Core™ 2 Extreme/Quad/Duo Processors
• Supports FSB 1333/1066/800MHz
• Supports Dual Ch. DDR3-1333/1066/800
• Dual-Channel PWM design
• New Circu-Pipe
• 4 PCI Express x16 slots ( 2 runs x4 speed)
• supports PCIe 2.0 & ATI CrossFire
• 2 eSATA2 Support Matrix RAID & Port
• Multiplier @ back I/O
• Supports 7.1Ch. X-Fi Xtreme Audio
• Supports MSI SkyTel VoIP function
• Supports dual Gigabit LAN

This Diamond model joins the X38 Platinum in MSI’s X38 Express motherboard lineup.

Click here to read the press release.

Click here to check out the product page.

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OCZ Announces 4GB SLI-Ready DDR2 Memory Kit

October 10, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

As the title states, OCZ has just announced a new 4GB PC2-6400 SLI-Ready DDR2 memory kit, optimized for nForce platforms.

Here’s what they had to say:

“The OCZ PC2-6400 4GB SLI-Ready Series is the optimal memory solution for current and upcoming DirectX® 10 graphic-intensive PC titles and provides unsurpassed reliability and performance to unleash every graphic possibility. For enthusiasts, gamers, and system-builders using Windows® Vista™ as their choice operating system and who need the performance of high-speed memory, these newest PC2-6400 4GB Kits are the ultimate SLI certified memory upgrade to increase your system responsiveness. The new high-density OCZ PC2-6400 4GB SLI-Ready Series is equipped with NVIDIA Enhanced Performance Profiles (EPP) to optimize the modules’ gaming performance on nForce® SLI-based motherboards.”

Interested? Well click here to check out the product page.

Or, click here to read the press release.
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SilverStone Strider 1000W PSU Review

October 9, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

XtremeComputing has just posted a review of the SilverStone Strider ST1000, a 1000W modular power supply.

Let’s see what they had to say:

“Modular or not modular that is the question, I have my own opinions on this one and being a user with a rig that can kill your normal mortal 800’s and lower I tend to keep clear of anything less than that in my rig. In my rig I tend to need all but 2 sata cables, which means every other cable is in use, so a modular in my case has all the cables in use.

Well to get to the point quick, in this power range I would tend to go for a non modular. But the Silverstone ST1000 has changed that opinion and despite the fact I use all the cables (well almost) I would still buy this, with Solid rails this PSU has to be a winner, and for those of you running a high end rig or are planning to, without all the cables (or with) , the ST1000 makes perfect sense. A good solid PSU that deserves its gold award.”

Since this is one of the cheapest 1000W power supplies on the market, it definitely looks like a solid deal. However, I am not a fan of the dual 12V rail (35A each) design. Instead, I would recommend the SilverStone DA850, which has a single 70 amp 12V rail.

Click here to read the full review.
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Gigabyte Volar CPU Cooler Review

October 9, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Overclocker Cafe has posted a review of the Gigabyte Volar CPU cooler.

Here’s what they had to say:

“The Gigabyte Volar does a nice job on several levels. First and foremost is raw cooling performance. At both the 2000 and 1500 RPM settings, we were able to achieve acceptable performance far superior to OEM cooling. This also applies to fan noise which will be of interest to you HTPC builders out there. Another nice point is that with the Volar's elevated and angled fan, we get the added benefit of circulating air over part of the motherboard and it's likewise warm components. That little extra bit of cooling on motherboard components can make all the difference in the world to system stability as we all know. The only thing I wasn't crazy about was the Fan Speed Control Cable. While I didn't dislike it outright, I was indifferent to it. A small rheostat on the cooler itself or elsewhere would have been preferable.”

If this product was in the $25-30 range, it might be an acceptable choice. However, at $36-40, there are vastly superior options, like the OCZ Vendetta and Thermalright Ultima-90.

Click here to read the full review.

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Acer 22-inch LCD Monitor Review

October 9, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

If you're looking for a large sub-$250 LCD monitor, 3DGameMan.com has just posted a review of the Acer AL2216W 22-inch LCD Monitor.

Here’s what they had to say:

“The Acer AL2216W is an awesome answer to the average user’s desire for a larger monitor. I would not venture so far to say that this monitor would satisfy the enthusiast gamer and HTPC purists out there, but this 22 inch LCD monitor has all the basic functionality that anybody can enjoy. The 1650x1050 resolution gives you enough real estate to have multiple windows open with enough room to work in each. While the contrast ratio is limited at 700:1, I find that most every application looks great. Some games like Bioshock and Crysis are not as rich as you would expect but still look great. Another note on the contrast; while working with the color settings, I was never able to get the monitor to my personal ‘just-right’ setting. I felt a bit let down with this result but was expected with the 700:1 ratio. With the marketed 5ms response time, the monitor did act in this fashion as ghosting was never once evident…”

Considering the fact that this one of the cheapest 22-inch LCD monitors on the market, it’s really hard to fault its few shortcomings.

Click here to read the full review.
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Zalman VF1000 LED and ZM-RHS88 Review

October 8, 2007 - Martin "Langaleer" Finbow

Are you ever tiring of your high performing graphics card making as much sound as your vacuum cleaner? Maybe its time for you to look at both the Zalman VF1000 and ZM-RHS88, reviewed by the guys at DriverHeaven

It may make your graphics quieter, but how does it cool?

“People who have purchased Radeon HD 2900 series graphics cards will without doubt be constantly bothered by noise from the cooler, while those who own Nvidia's 8800 series are far more likely to be happy with their heatsink/fan combination. Still, there are always improvements which can be made to cooling solutions and even if performance remains the same, the addition of an aftermarket cooler can take a reference design card and make it more attractive. Ideal for case modders.

Today we are taking a look at one of Zalmans latest graphics card coolers, the VF1000 LED and professional heatsink (ZM-RHS88). We will be installing the products on an 8800 GTS card to see just how well they cope with one of Nvidia's high end models. ”

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Thermaltake LANBOX Lite Desktop Case Review

October 8, 2007 - Martin "Langaleer" Finbow

HTPC's are becoming more and more popular, especially as the motherboard manufacturers are packing better quality components like sounds cards with DD or DTS making the jump a lot easier. Extreme Overclockinghave looked at the Thermaltake LANBOX Lite Desktop Case.

It may be compact; ideal for an HTPC - but does it supply what you demand?

“The demand for smaller PCs is ever growing and manufacturers must come up with innovative new solutions to meet these needs. Thermaltake's LANBOX Lite does just that without the usual sacrifices in performance and cooling that other small cases make. The LANBOX Lite looks like something that could go next to a high definition TV in a living room.”

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Gigabyte GA-P35-DQ6 Motherboard Review

October 8, 2007 - Martin "Langaleer" Finbow

We have another P35 chipset review today, this time its the Gigabyte GA-P35-DQ6, which is the first board to feature Gigabyte's Quad BIOS! Lets see what Virtual-Hideout thought:

“The board I will be reviewing from Gigabyte is the GA-P35-DQ6 featuring a P35/ICH9R chipset combination. This model supports the DDR-2 standard, dual PCIe graphics capability (only crossfire is supported on the Intel chipsets), solid caps all over the board, Quad bios solution, Eight Channel HD audio provided by the Realtek ALC889 codec and silent heatpipe cooling. All great features contributing to the very bling-bling nature of this board. Let's dig in and see if it stacks up.”

If you want to next gen performance, but do not or cannot afford the full DDR3 route yet, then ASUS have certainly brought a feature and performance rich board to the table. If you can afford it, this board should be on the list of hopefulls in your list!!
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ASUS P5K3 Premium Black Pearl Special Edition

October 8, 2007 - Martin "Langaleer" Finbow

Bjorn3D has just tested the new ASUS P5K3 Premium Black Pearl Special Edition motherboard, that is based off Intel's P35 chipset.

Let’s see what they had to say:

“ASUS is a company that never ceases to surprise me. It also is a company that is not afraid of taking chances and try new things. Today I am testing yet another high-end motherboard from ASUS with a twist: the ASUS P5K3 Premium Black Pearl Special Edition. As far as I know this is the first motherboard that has on-board DDR3 memory.”

If you want to jump onto the DDR3 bandwagon (albeit onboard), then ASUS have certainly brought a feature and performance rich board to the table. If you can afford it, then this isn't a motherboard to miss!!

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Top 20 3DMark06/PCMark05 Movers & Shakers

October 8, 2007 - Joe "OuTkAsT-1" Topolnisky

Welcome to the latest installment of our weekly look at the top 3DMark06 and PCMark05 scores submitted to the online result browser ORB. The charts were buzzing with action this week. So let's take a look at who did what, shall we?

New to the 3DMark06 Top 20 are:
10. 24283 Sampsa (www.muropaketti.com)
11. 24233 joe_cool - Crossfire Testing @ AOCM with CellShock DDR3 1800
12. 24231 AndreYang 2900XT 1GB on air Testing

And shaking up the PCMark05 Top 20 are:
7. 17633 Pedro Rocha - AQUAPC - 260€ Q6600 G0
8. 17615 Matti @ Crazy-OC-Team

Congrats to this week's chart climbers! You folks really know your stuff. :D

Keep on tweaking those monsters! And remember to visit our Hall of Fame for updates to the top scores throughout the week.
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Arctic Cooling Announces New Cases

October 8, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Artic Cooling has just announced a new case series, the Silentium T ECO 80.

Let's see what they had to say:

Eco friendly PC case:

The Silentium T ECO 80 is equipped with a 550W PSU that totally fulfills the ECO 80 standard and delivers a minimum efficiency of 82% and 86% at typical loads respectively. Furthermore, the Silentium T ECO 80 PSU is an active PFC with a typical power factor of 99%. This not only saves energy costs, but the Silentium T ECO 80 PSU also increases the reliability of the PC system by generating less heat, reducing the required fan speed and noise level, increasing component life and improving the comfort of the users environment.

Thermodynamic optimized design:

Inherited from its predecessor (Silentium T Pro), reducing the noise to an absolute minimum and achieving a maximum airflow are also the design goals of the Silentium T ECO 80. The radical new thermodynamic concept allows the air flow and the PSU position to be completely rearranged to enhance the overall ventilation. All Arctic Fans are temperature controlled and contain patented vibration absorption in order to lower the noise level. Together with the help of the special HDD muffler, multiple hard disk noise and vibration can be eliminated by encapsulating them into the absorbers. Furthermore the screwless design of the Silentium T ECO 80 is torsion resistant and offers extensive features for power users.

Sounds promising! It will be interesting to see what the reviewers think about this new case series.

You can check out the different models here:

• Silentium T1 ECO 80
  
• Silentium T2 ECO 80
  
• Silentium T3 ECO 80
  
• Silentium T4 ECO 80
  
• Silentium T5 ECO 80

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In Win Enclosure Roundup

October 8, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Looking for a unique sub-$100 case? Well TweakTown has just reviewed three In Win cases.

Here’s what they had to say:

• F430 Mid Tower:
  
  

  “The F430 is a nice enclosure designed for those who have a love for the sports automobile. With an incredibly fine finish and a gloss that is almost mirror-like, the overall appearance is exceptional.”

  
  
  
• Alpha 360 Mini Tower:
  
  

  “The Alpha 630 was the most entertaining enclosure tested in this group. With an unusual oval shape and hydraulic-like panels, this case has a lot of personality. Though smaller in size than many other models, this is a nice addition for those looking for something with a cool appearance and smaller footprint.”

  
  
  
• Mountain Jade Tiny Tower:
  
  

  “The Mt. Jade is classified as either a tiny tower or a desktop enclosure, depending on the method you use to mount your system. It is quite small and is designed for those looking into something along the lines of a HTPC system. With no internal fans and a solid mounting carriage for the drives, there will be no noise from this enclosure beyond what your HSF and drives will produce.”

Overall, In Win has managed to create three distinctive, yet affordable cases.

Click here to read the full review.

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AMD Triple-Core Revisited

October 8, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Legit Reviews has posted a brief look at the rationale behind AMD's upcoming triple-core processors.

Here’s what they had to say:

“When AMD does see a “problem core” or when the frequency mis-match among cores, they now have the triple core option to keep from scrapping or down-grading that die. Let's take a step backwards here: AMD tests each processor and when they do they test each of the four cores individually. By doing so, AMD has the ability to make sure that each core is working correctly and at what clock frequency. If AMD is trying to produce say, 2.6GHz Phenom processors, this is what happens. The processor is tested and, for example, it was found to have three cores running fine at 2.6GHz and one core that can do just 2.0GHz. AMD has the choice to fuse the processor at the silicon level (well before the integrated heat spreader is put on) as a 2.0GHz quad-core Phenom, or they could fuse it as a 2.6GHz triple-core Phenom if they wanted to lose the use of a core.”

It will be interesting to see how AMD markets and prices these chips, and if they become popular, whether they can keep up with demand.

Click here to read the full article.

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LG Blu-ray/HD-DVD Optical Drive Preview

October 8, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

TechSpot has just posted a preview of the LG GGW-H10NI Super Multi Blue drive.

Here’s what they had to say:

“The fact is we have had the LG GGW-H10NI Super Multi Blue drive in our hands for a couple of months now, however we did not know in full what to do with it. In one hand, the GGW-H10N is the most advanced optical drive you can get for the PC today, with the capacity of reading and rewriting Blu-ray discs, reading HD DVD discs, and handling all other standard media tasks with DVDs and CDs.”

Aside from the prohibitive price, this is some exciting technology. Hopefully, we will be seeing similar models retailing for ~$200 sometime next year.

Click here to read the full article.

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Interview with Intel's Memory Guru

October 7, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

TechGage has just posted an interview with the Senior Staff Engineer for Intel's Platform Memory Operations.

Here’s what they had to say:

“At last months Intel Developer Forum, I had the pleasure of meeting Christopher Cox, Sr. Staff Engineer for Intel's Platform Memory Operations. After speaking with him for a few minutes, I quickly understood the passion that went into Intel's memory technologies. He exhibited such great enthusiasm about what he was speaking about, that I knew an interview had to be in order. I'm pleased to say that we have one here today.”

It’s a good article if you are interested in learning more about Intel’s Extreme Memory Profiles (XMP).

Click here to read the full interview.

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PC Power & Cooling Turbo-Cool 1200W Review

October 7, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

The recently announced PC Power & Cooling Turbo-Cool 1200 has been reviewed by PC Perspective.

Here’s what they had to say:

“The new PC Power & Cooling Turbo-Cool 1200W power supply was designed for industry professionals who demand the very best. It features a unique new design that places the emphasis on a rock-solid +12V core with super clean outputs. This unit can deliver up to 90A (1,080W) of +12V continuous power at up to 50°C operating temperature. It comes with enough connectors to power a small house, including four motherboard, six PCI-E, and 15 drive connectors.

The Turbo-Cool 1200W power supply exhibits excellent build quality and is backed by PC Power & Cooling's new 7-year Turbo-Cool warranty and legendary support. The only down-side I could find is a slightly lower than normal efficiency at low power levels and the Turbo-Cool 1200W PSU is far from quiet.”

What more is there to say? If you are looking for the best power supply on the market, this is a good place to start.

Click here to read the full review.
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Lian Li PC-C32 HTPC Case Review

October 7, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

XSReviews has just posted a review of the Lian Li PC-C32 HTPC case.

Here’s what they had to say:

“The thing that’s hard to explain with this case is the engineering skill that has gone into it. There are many cases that pack features in, but bits don’t line up, screw threads aren’t perfect and you have to force bits into place. The Lian Li PC-C32 is nothing like that; every screw glides in, everything slots in perfectly and it just screams quality.

There are downsides to this, including the price, the lack of cooling (but has the ability to mount another two fans), only two 5.25” bays and reasonably loud operation. Thankfully, the last two points can be nullified if you use your own fans or purchase the additional cooling module.

Overall this is a solid case, with features that you don’t normally find on a desktop enclosure, like the rear-loading PSU or rack mounting ability. If you are looking for a horizontal desktop case, or even a media PC, give the Lian Li PC-C32 a good look.”

Lian Li has done a great job designing an attractive and functional HTPC case. While the reviewer ran into issues with his CPU cooler, the OCZ Vendetta and Thermalright Ultima-90 are two high-performance heatsinks that will fit perfectly in this case.

Click here to read the full review.
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Gigabyte GA-X38T-DQ6 Motherboard Review

October 7, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Trusted Reviews has just tested the new Gigabyte GA-X38T-DQ6 motherboard.

Let’s see what they had to say:

“For the time being we're unconvinced by Intel's X38 chipset and DDR3 memory but Gigabyte has done a decent job with the GA-X38T-DQ6 and it looks like it could be future-resistant for a year or two which is pretty good going in this game.”

Overall, this seems like another solid Gigabyte product. While it may not be as flashy as other X38 motherboards, it is also significantly cheaper. For those of you wisely wanting to stick with DDR2, Gigabyte also has the GA-X38-DQ6.

Click here to read the full review.

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HiS Radeon HD 2900 PRO 512MB Review

October 7, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Guru3D has just posted a review of the recently announced HiS Radeon HD 2900 PRO 512MB.

Here’s what they had to say:

“So for 249 USD you have one exceptional deal here. Get it, grab Rivatuner, find you maximum OC (there's a lot of headroom to play around with) and you'll have a rather extensive smile on your face. I figure that if you flash an XT BIOS into this card, you're good to go as well *coughs* did I just say that out loud? And I have to include this ... even if your card couldn't even overclock 1 single MHZ, this product still would be an excellent performer for the money. Now, the GeForce 8800 GTS 320MB is not far away from this product performance and pricing wise. You've seen the results and you've seen differences. It's not a win/lose situation, the cards are competitive with each other. Performance wise I'd say the 8800 GTS is a notch faster, yet feature wise and seen over the 8600 GTS the 2900 Pro is a definitive win.”

For $249USD, you are getting a full-fledged Radeon HD 2900XT, how great is that?

Click here to read the full review.
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Gainward 8800GTS 640MB & XFX 8800GTS 320MB Review

October 5, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Our friends over at Driver Heaven have reviewed both the Gainward Bliss GTS 640MB and the XFX 8800 GTS 320Mb Fatal1ty Edition.

Let's see what they had to say:

• Gainward Bliss GTS 640MB:
  
  

  “There is a good bundle provided by Gainward and the card is packaged in a secure container in the centre of the outer box which is good to see. Without doubt the highlight of the card has to be the overclocking potential. Being able to reach such high speeds really does add huge value to the Gainward Bliss 8800 GTS 640Mb. I don't think we have ever tested a retail card that we could overclock 200mhz on the core and 600mhz on the memory!”

  
  
  
• XFX 8800 GTS 320Mb Fatal1ty Edition:
  
  

  “XFX supply a product which does not have as much memory as comparably priced parts. Despite this it has to be seriously considered due to the enhanced clock speeds. More often than not these higher speeds allow the XFX 8800 GTS 320Mb to outperform the 640Mb versions and it is only when 1920x1200 is used with 4x antialiasing that the card begins to fall behind the Gainward model.”

The XFX is obviously a very impressive product, however price may be its downfall. I suspect that it will retail for more than several 8800GTS 640MB models, and in the long run, they would be better purchases.

Click here to read the full review.

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Tagan El Diablo Case Review

October 5, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

While Tagan is best known for their power supplies, they have also entered the case market. OverClock Intelligence Agency has just posted a review of the Tagan El Diablo case.

Let’s see what they had to say:

“What I liked about the El Diablo most was the style. There's definitely a wow factor with the huge LED fans filling the front and side panels of the case. They manage to incorporate the front fan with sculpted vents on either side to take up the extra width and the mesh used on both front and side panels is very open and should not inhibit airflow much at all. Both fans do a good job of keeping things cool and the oversize side fan has the benefit of feeding air to both the CPU and GPU areas. Both fans were fairly quiet even on high and can easily be adjusted to your preference with the built-in dials. Card slots and drive bays are tool-less, and the front panel door as well as the rest of the case is very sturdy and the finish is attractive and durable.”

The huge 250mm front fan and 360mm side fan will undoubtedly do a tremendous job of lowering ambient and component temperatures, but at what point does it become overkill? Also, I’m not too keen on the front fascia, it looks a little too much like a blender for my liking.

Click here to read the full review.
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Gateway Introduces New 30” LCD Monitor

October 5, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Gateway has just introduced a new 30” LCD monitor, the XHD3000, sporting a 2560 x 1600 resolution, 1000:1 contrast ratio, and 6ms response time.

Here’s what they had to say:

“The new Gateway XHD3000 30-Inch Extreme HD Display delivers advanced display technology for those who want a truly remarkable, cinema-quality experience. It features state-of-the-art technology that makes it uniquely suited for both entertainment and computing needs. With a stunning ultra-high-resolution 1600P widescreen image, the world's first Quad-HD display is capable of more than four times the resolution of standard 720p high-definition. The integrated Silicon Optix Realta® HQV® video processor takes image to an entirely new world of detail and clarity. This gorgeous display also provides world-class convenience and usability, as it can be easily connected to virtually any video device via its range of inputs including HDMI, dual-link and single-link DVI-D, VGA, Component, S-Video and Composite interfaces-all with an astonishing 1600p upsampling of all video sources.”

There are now five 30” LCD monitors on the market: the Apple Cinema HD Display, Dell UltraSharp 3007WFP-HC, Gateway XHD3000, HP LP3065, and Samsung SyncMaster 305T.

Click here to check out the product page.

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Razer Launches Lycosa Gaming Keyboard & Piranha Headset

October 5, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Gaming-oriented peripheral maker Razer has just announced two new products, the Lycosa gaming keyboard and the Piranha headset. They have also showcased the Belkin n52te speedpad, which is part of the company’s ‘Powered by Razer’ initiative.

• Lycosa:
  
  

  “The Razer Lycosa is designed for fast, efficient gameplay and superior actions-per-minute thanks to its 1000Hz Ultrapolling™/1ms response time. By offering illuminated, non-slip rubber keys and Hyperesponse™ technology; full control is in the gamers’ hands, empowering gamers to operate under any conditions and at professional gaming speed. Durable and ultra-portable, the Razer Lycosa is fit for the most heated LAN gaming sessions by offering immediately accessible USB, earphone and microphone jacks.”

  
  
  
• Piranha:
  
  

  “The Razer Piranha delivers realistic in-game stereo audio with superior clarity and deep bass tones for discerning gamers requiring superior audio fidelity. Featuring plug-and-play functionality, the Razer Piranha also sports an adjustable noise-canceling microphone enabling gamers to communicate with teammates in the noisiest of gaming situations. The ergonomically designed and cushioned earphones also offer hours of comfort and functionality for extended gaming sessions.”

  
  
  
• n52te:
  

  “As the leading gaming accessories manufacturer, Razer makes an ideal partner for us as we return to the gaming arena. After listening to the gaming community, we found that our award-winning n52 still stood to be improved. And now, by powering its successor, the n52te, with Razer's powerful on-board memory software, we are introducing a stronger and even deadlier SpeedPad,” said Chris McGugan, VP of Product Management, Belkin International.”

Click here to read the press release.
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OCZ Announces PC Power & Cooling Turbo-Cool 1200

October 5, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

OCZ has just introduced the PC Power & Cooling Turbo-Cool 1200W power supply.

Here’s what they had to say:

“OCZ Technology Group, a worldwide leader in innovative, ultra-high performance memory and PC components, today announced the release of the Turbo-Cool 1200 power supply from PC Power & Cooling. Designed to offer the consumer market a professional-grade computer power supply, the 1200W Turbo-Cool is the ultimate power solution for those that require the very best, long-lasting, industrial-grade components for their mission-critical system or leading-edge gaming machine.”

Questionable 1300W and 1600W PSU’s aside, this is now officially the best power supply on the market. A massive 90 amp single 12V rail, proven PCP&C design, and 7-year warranty, what more could you want? However, be forewarned, as per all Turbo-Cool units, this is not going to be a quite unit.

Click here to read the press release.
Click here to check out the product page.

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Corsair VX450w Power Supply Review

October 4, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Looking for a high-quality, affordable power supply for a mid-range computer? Well Bjorn3D has just posted a review of the Corsair VX450w power supply.

Here’s what they had to say:

“I have been using the VX450 for a little over a week now and have had a very positive experiences with it. I really like the fact that this PSU is as efficient as it is. 450 watts may not seem like enough power for even today's mainstream computers and while that may be true it is important to remember that this PSU is geared towards budget and HTPC's (Home Theatre PC) that don't require nearly that much power. The finish on this piece is a love/hate sort of thing. I personally love the look of it as it reminds me that this power supply is ready to work. Others may prefer a more stylized look. Even so this PSU has it where it counts. Rock solid lines and ultra quiet cooling makes this a serious contender for any enthusiasts Home Theatre PC.”

Aside from the single 6-pin PCI-E connector, which cannot truly be seen as a negative in this wattage range, this is another terrific power supply from Corsair.

Click here to read the full review
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Auzentech X-Fi Prelude Sound Card Review

October 4, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Our friends over at TechGage have just posted a review of the Auzentech X-Fi Prelude sound card. How does it compare to Creative’s offerings?

Here’s what they had to say:

“Right now the X-Fi Prelude falls into the category of "An awesome idea but not an awesome product" Instead it's very competitive with the $145 Fatal1ty Gamer Pro but miles distant from the functionality of the Platinum Champion series or the Elite Pro.

That said I'm awarding the X-Fi Prelude a 7/10 because it's just not up to the task... yet. Auzentech is close to hitting it on the head but they're still dancing around the nail at the moment.”

It looks like Auzentech should keep making their terrific proprietary sounds cards, such as the HDA X-PLOSION 7.1, instead of using Creative's technology.

Click here to read the full review.
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Patriot PC3-15000 2GB DDR3 Memory Kit Review

October 4, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Looking for the best DDR3 memory kit on the market? Well Virtual Hideout has just posted a review of the Patriot PC3-15000 2GB DDR3 memory kit.

Let’s see what they had to say:

“The Patriot PC3-15000 2GB Memory Kit is indeed the current fastest DDR3 memory kit available that can provide an insane 1866MHz memory frequency and that will remain completely stable. All around, the Patriot PC3-15000 is very impressive and fabricated with the very best modules. The kit didn't require any more voltage than it's specified 1.9 volts to achieve and hold a stable 1866MHz which is excellent. The memory is quite capable of higher frequencies as long as your system is capable of handling it. Systems with linked memory and processor frequencies like the ASUS P5K3 Deluxe are going to find it a rewarding challenge finding anything higher than 1866MHz. But then, that's part of the journey when you pick up something this extreme for your system. It's a whole new game. Can you keep up with Patriot?”

This is definitely the fastest DDR3 on the market, surpassing even Corsair’s mighty PC3-14400 memory kit. If you have the need for speed, then it might be worth the money.

Click here to read the full review.
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Silverstone Nitrogon NT06 CPU Cooler Review

October 4, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Looking for a new heatsink for your SFF/HTPC case? Well Hardware Canucks has posted a review of the Silverstone Nitrogon NT06 CPU cooler.

Let’s see what they had to say:

“This cooler looks great, has excellent build quality, and the difficulty in mounting didn't cost it too many points as it is a function of the low profile design. This is, in our opinion, a fair trade-off for those looking to install a quality cooler into a confined space. There aren't too many after-market coolers on the market which will fit in SFF cases like the Silverstone Sugo series.

The only real fault we could find was the price / performance ratio. The AC 7 Pro sets a high performance standard to beat, but at over twice the cost, we would have expected the NT06 to have provided more than just marginal improvements, especially after we ditched the stock thermal compound for a quality retail one.

Quite frankly, at this price we expected better cooling performance.”

Overall, the performance is a bit disappointing. If you need a high-performance low profile heatsink, I would instead recommend the Enzotech Ultra-X, which easily ranks among the Top 10 best performing coolers on the market.

Click here to read the full review.
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Razer DeathAdder & Mantis Control Review

October 4, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

T-Break has posted a review of the Razer DeathAdder gaming mouse and Mantis Control mouse pad.

Let’s see what they had to say:

• Razer DeathAdder:
  
  

  “The Razer DeathAdder is one of the best mice we’ve ever had the chance to review. The biggest advantage is the ability to track even at high speeds without experiencing skips. The DeathAdder looks pretty with its great aesthetic design and also has a very good ergonomic shape. The only faults we’ve found so far were design related and Razer has quickly rectified them with up-to-date software and firmware. The DeathAdder is an excellent buy for hardcore gamers, designing specialists or even the normal user with its fantastic shape and performance. It would have been better if the DeathAdder were available in an ambidextrous design so the right-handed form will go as a con in our list.”

  
  
• Mantis Control:
  
  

  “The Razer Mantis Control fits the criteria of the gamer that is looking for a rugged, easy carrying and especially long-lasting performance mouse pad. Stylish, friction and large size terms the Mantis Control. This is an excellent choice for gamers or designers out there for the premium price of $25.”

Based on this review, it’s not hard to see why Razer is one of the most revered manufacturers of gaming peripherals. I can’t wait to see what Razer has managed to accomplish with the upcoming Lachesis.

Click here to read the full review.
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Eleven-way Power Supply Comparison

October 3, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

The Tech Report has just compared eleven enthusiast-oriented power supplies from Antec, Cooler Master, Corsair, Enermax, OCZ, PC Power & Cooling, Seasonic, Thermaltake.

Here’s what they had to say:

“We've covered a lot, so before diving into our conclusions on each power supply we've tested, we should take a moment to note some general trends. With few exceptions, all the PSUs in this round-up are pretty good. In fact, only Cooler Master's 650W Real Power Pro failed to deliver tight voltage tolerances, and then on only one rail in our 100% output capacity test. Ripple wasn't much of a problem for these PSUs, either. ThermalTake's Toughpower may have been the worst, but its average AC content was well within acceptable limits. Heck, even overall efficiencies were impressive. The lowest efficiency we observed was 76.7%—just 10 percentage points shy of the highest.”

The Corsair 620HX and PC Power & Cooling Silencer 750W appear to be the standout performers. Featuring stable voltage rails, unbelievable efficiency, and virtual silence, there’s not much more you could want in a power supply.

Click here to read the full article.

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Asus P5E3 Deluxe Motherboard Review

October 3, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Much like they did with the P35 Express chipset, it appears that Asus is going to have quite the arsenal of X38 Express motherboards available to consumers. Bit-Tech has just posted a review of the Asus P5E3 Deluxe motherboard.

Let’s see what they had to say:

“Last month we previewed Intel's soon-to-be-released X38 chipset with a first look at one of Gigabyte's X38 boards, but we had to reserve final judgement on the board because it used engineering sample silicon. We recently got our first mass production X38 board in house - it's Asus' P5E3 Deluxe, which uses retail 'A2' X38 silicon.

Today we're here to give you the full low-down on the X38 chipset, and of course a full review of Asus' latest motherboard. Does X38 finally live up to the performance expectation and do the plethora of features on this board warrant the massive price tag?”

If the P5E3 is going to retail for £260, I shudder at how much the Asus Maximus Extreme is going to cost. This price premium is eventually going to catch up with Asus, since the other motherboard manufacturers will be offering very similar products at ~$100 less.

Click here to read the full review.

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AMD Athlon 64 X2 5000+ Black Edition Review

October 3, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Along with the recently launched Athlon 64 X2 6400+ Black Edition, AMD also released a 5000+ model. AMDZone has just posted a review of the AMD Athlon 64 X2 5000+ Black Edition.

Here’s what they had to say:

“Overall what can be said of the X2 5000+ Black Edition that we haven't said of AMD before. This CPU obviously is a great value for the price, adds an interesting twist to things with the unlocked multiplier which makes overclocking a little bit easier but still prevents it from competing with Intel's best.”

If you currently have a single-core AM2 processor, then the X2 5000+ is actually an excellent value and a solid upgrade choice.

Click here to read the full review.

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Hiper Anubis Case Review

October 3, 2007 - Martin "Langaleer" Finbow

Looking for a new system case?
Bit-Tech have looked at the Anubis case, which has audio and usb connections easily accesible and a side window. Thing is, is this the case for you?

“What I originally thought was going to be an ugly, heavy and useless case has turned out to be quite a good-looking, aluminium case which is individually numbered and well designed. The performance of the case is good also and could be even better if a few extra fans were added to the case, bringing the temperatures down by a few degrees.”

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ECS P35T-A and Gigabyte GA-P31-DS3L Review

October 3, 2007 - Martin "Langaleer" Finbow

HotHardware have looked at two motherboards that are kind to your pocket, the P35T-A and GA-P31-DS3L.

They are on different P3x chipsets, so is there much difference? Here’s what they had to say:

“Today at HotHardware, we have looked at two affordably priced Core 2 platforms based on the Intel P3x series chipset, to see if there were any major differences in terms of performance, features, and overclockability between the two. Representing the P35 Express, we have the ECS P35T-A, which retails for a little over $100 USD. In addition, we have the new Gigabyte GA-P31-DS3L representing the P31 Express. This new Gigabyte motherboard is currently selling for about 20% less (around $80 USD), making it one of the least expensive P3x boards currently on the market. Head on over to the site and take a look...”

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OCZ Vendetta Exposed HDT CPU Cooler Review

October 2, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Benchmark Reviews has just posted a review of OCZ’s recently announced Vendetta CPU cooler.

Here’s what they had to say:

“I was extremely pleased with the results Xigmatek's HDT-S1283 offered, but I wasn't so thrilled with the large 120mm size taking up so much space. OCZ really researched their options when they designed the Vendetta, because it packs all of the performance the HDT-S1283 offered with the small 92mm footprint most coolers always seem to exceed. This truly is the performer of the series, with nothing but supplemental technology added to the already proven HDT design to place it firmly at the top of the list.”

Since OCZ used Xigmatech’s top-notch design, it’s no surprise that this heatsink performs very well for its size. It would be very interesting to see how it fares against the Thermalright Ultima-90, arguably the best compact heatsink on the market.

Click here to read the full review.

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Logitech Cordless Desktop Wave Reviews

October 2, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Modders-Inc and The Tech Lounge have both posted reviews of the Logitech Cordless Desktop Wave keyboard & mouse combo.

Let's see what they had to say:

• Modders-Inc.
  
  

  “Overall the Logitech Cordless Desktop Wave is well worth the $89.99 US price tag it carries. It has performed without any problems besides the interference with the gaming mouse being to close (which is kind of expected). It has a nice clean unique look and feel to it. The mouse does great for everyday computer usage and can be sufficient for light gaming needs. The extra one-touch buttons are a nice feature and provide quick access to many of your applications. The added gadgets that are offered for the Vista users are a nice addition as well. There really isn't to much you can complain on when looking at a $89.99 keyboard mouse combo.”

  
  Click here to read the full review.
  
  
  
• The Tech Lounge.
  
  

  “I stand by my assertion that this keyboard tries, and succeeds, to be friendly. It's like a black, hundred-some-key, wireless smiley face. The flexibility that SetPoint brings to the media and function keys is outstanding, and more than what most people will ever want from this set.
  
  But it's no workhorse. I'm a straight-keyboard guy through and through, but even ergonomic-keyboarders will admit that this hardware is designed with comfort before efficiency. It doesn't have any surprises except that it can be so easily re-programmed. And the ergonometrics are at least a little inventive.”

  
  Click here to read the full review.
  

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Thermal Paste Comparison

October 2, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Our friends over at Bjorn3D have posted an article comparing various thermal pastes from Arctic Cooling, Innovation Cooling, Thermalright, and Zalman.

Here’s what they had to say:

“The winner of the 'Best Thermal Transfer' award goes to: Arctic Silver Ceramique and Arctic Silver 5! Truly a killer one two punch. Neither compound was able to secure a victory on both fronts but with Ceramique taking the top spot in the CPU category and Arctic Silver 5 bringing home the gold for GPU's it is a great day for Arctic Silver.”

They also hand out two other awards, 'Easiest to apply' and 'Fastest cure time', so go check out which is which.

Click here to read the full article.

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Asus Maximus Extreme Motherboard Preview

October 2, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

The highly anticipated Intel X38 Express chipset is being launched on October 11th, and I know most of you have been waiting to see what Asus would do this new chipset. Well TweakTown has just posted a preview of the upcoming Asus Maximus Extreme motherboard.

Let’s see what they had to say:

“We paid a visit to Asus’ head office in Taipei on Friday and we got some exclusive pictures of their upcoming Maximus Extreme X38 board and some information about it and some of their other X38 products. There will be two different Maximus board in the R.O.G. family, the Extreme which we’re looking at here and the Formula. Asus has already done this kind of thing once before with its P35 R.O.G. boards, the Blitz Extreme and the Blitz Formula.”

This is the same motherboard Kinc used to set his new records, so it has already shown great potential.

Click here to check out the preview.

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Interview with Cooler Master

October 1, 2007 - Martin "Langaleer" Finbow

Cooler Master are a well known name when it comes to the cooling industry and particularly its cases. The guys at TweakTown have caught up with the guys at Cooler Master to get the low down on what to expect from them:

“I spent some time finding out more about Cooler Master's current marketing strategy, their future goals and also a bit more about some of the team who are trying to put the name Cooler Master into the forefront of every enthusiast and gamer's mind. Let me introduce the newly formed team and divulge some of their game plans.

I met Raymen Wu, an executive within Cooler Master's Marketing Department and his colleagues, Coco Lee and David Jarlestedt. They are the new generation of Marketing Managers for Cooler Master HQ based in Taiwan, and of them, Raymen was the designated spokesperson for this interview who guided me with his colleagues through some of the new strategies that Cooler Master will be taking on.”

Click here to read the full article.

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ViewSonic VX2255wmb 22-inch Widescreen LCD Review

October 1, 2007 - Martin "Langaleer" Finbow

I have personally never seen the interest in monitors as high as it is now, with the larger and higher resolution widescreen LCDs becoming the standard for most home users now. Who would have thought a few years ago that people would look at 20+ inch monitors.

Luckily with the technology of today, the prices are not as obscene as they once were, but of course there are a lot of options out there for you, which can be confusing.

Think Computers have looked at the ViewSonic VX2255wmb. It doesnt have all the connections under the sun like other models, but how good does it perform?

Let’s see what they had to say:

“Back in January at CES we first saw the VX2255wmb and I instantly wanted one. Its sleek design and integrated 1.3-megapixel really made it stand out from other monitors. Also the VX2255wmh version comes in a pearl white, which Mac fans will enjoy. Today will are looking at the VX2255wmb version which is black and features a 1680X1050 native resolution, 5ms response time, and integrated speakers as well as the integrated 1.3-megapixel camera. Let's see if it's the perfect LCD for you!”

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Hard Disk Drives Capacity Limits Guide

October 1, 2007 - Martin "Langaleer" Finbow

Ah the wonders and frustrations of storage. You run low on it and run out and get a massive hard drive thinking all your problems will go away, only to be welcomed with a partial amount of the size you were expecting. Welcome to the annoying pc world of annoyances!

There is no need to fret though, as the guys at Hardware Secrets have looked into the problems you may encounter and supplied their solutions to get you up and running at full capacity again:

“You may have heard about or even experienced yourself the problem of buying a new hard disk drive to install on your old (and sometimes not that old) machine and facing some size limitation, i.e. your old system does not recognizing the full capacity of your hard disk drive. In this tutorial we will explain why this happens, list all hard disk drive capacity limitations that have ever existed since the PC was created and show you how to fix them”

Click here to read the full article.

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MSI P35 Diamond DDR3 Review

October 1, 2007 - Martin "Langaleer" Finbow

Have you been waiting to upgrade your system and not sure what to get? Our friends at Chile Hardware have looked at MSI's P35 Diamond, which is obviously by its name, based on Intel's P35 chipset.

This review puts up the P35 with DDR3 vs DDR2 to show you exactly what you should expect between the two platforms, so is this the right motherboard for you to aim for?

Let’s see what they had to say:

“For this revision the idea was to compare two systems based on he himself chipset but with different types from ram, a P35 platform with DDR2 and another one with DDR3. Since the great part of the P35 plates behaves of very similar form to us becomes very simple to limit the difference of yield in the type of used memory. For the system tests the processor I am used in its frequency by defect (266MHz*11), the memories in platform DDR2 were formed to 1066MHz 5-5-5-15 and in platform DDR3 they were formed to 1066MHz 6-6-6-18. For the tests of games we used two titles, one based on OpenGL and another one in DirectX, both to maximum qualities available, without filters and to a resolution of 1024x768 pixels. The configuration for the tests of overclock properly detailed in the section overclock. ”

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Top 20 3DMark06/PCMark05 Movers & Shakers

October 1, 2007 - Joe "OuTkAsT-1" Topolnisky

Welcome back to our weekly look at the top 3DMark06 and PCMark05 scores submitted to the online result browser (ORB). We had quite a few entries this past week, including a new king of the 3DMark06 Top 20! So is this masterful benchmarker? Read on to find out:

Making the a big splash in the 3DMark06 Top 20:
1. 27542 Kinc ASUS Maximus Formula ASUS 2900 CF Mushkin Redline
14. 23677 Sampsa (www.muropaketti.com)

And new to the PCMark05 Top 20 are:
5. 18229 SF3D single GTX
6. 17777 OANVOANC
8. 16984 Matti @ Crazy-OC-Team
11. 16294 Untitled

Wow! Anyone else's jaw hurt from hitting the floor? :D

Big congrats to Kinc. Awesome stuff man!

Remember to visit our Hall of Fame for updates to the top scores throughout the week.
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Silverstone Kublai KL02 Case Review

October 1, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

If you liked the look of Silverstone’s SG03 case, but weren’t willing to make the switch to the mATX form factor, then you are in luck. Hardware Canucks has just posted a review of the Silverstone Kublai KL02, an ATX case that looks fairly similar to the SG03.

Let’s see what they had to say:

“Silverstone has always been front and center when consumers are looking for a well-built and thoroughly designed enclosure. The Kublai KL02 does well in continuing Silverstone’s tradition of case-building excellence by offering consumers a mid-tower case that is loaded with features few other cases have. There is plenty of room to route cables with the well-placed holes on the motherboard tray in addition to clips being added in strategic positions. We especially liked the fact that the KL02 can fit longer graphics cards without any problems and still have room to spare.”

Aside from the rattling 120MM fan, this seems another solid Silverstone product. However, unless you really want an aluminium case, it’s hard to recommend over the much cheaper Cooler Master CM690.

Click here to read the full review.

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Sony Ericsson K770 Cyber-shot Review

October 1, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Looking for a stylish mobile phone with solid multimedia capabilities? Well GSMArena has just posted a review of the Sony Ericsson K770 Cyber-shot.

Here’s what they had to say:

“We liked this Cyber-shot for its design and friendly handling. A bit of a disappointment is the stale user interface. The other serious drawback is the low video capturing resolution. The photo quality couldn't impress us either, as it wasn't near the one of its Cyber-shot elder brothers. The camera performance was further beaten down by the lack of a xenon flash and the lack of the BestPic shooting mode. So in all honesty, the new Sony Ericsson K770 seems pretty much as a Cyber-shot-branded replica of the T650. Fair enough, there's nothing wrong with trying to build on a successful design. Without much effort, Sony Ericsson adds a stylish mid-range handset to its Cyber-shot lineup.”

First and foremost, keep in mind that this is a mid-level, style-oriented device. If you want the most megapixels, highest data speeds, and other gee-whiz technology, I would point you towards the high-end K850 Cyber-shot. By the way, as Sony Ericsson is quite fond of doing, North Americans are effectively excluded from this model due to the omission of GSM850.

Click here to read the full review.
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Mid-range CPU Comparison

October 1, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Looking to build a new system without breaking the bank? Well there is no better time to buy than the present, since both AMD and Intel have attractive $100 processor offerings. To aid in your decision making, Anandtech has posted a terrific mid-range CPU comparison.

Here’s what they had to say:

“Although AMD remains very competitive in the vast majority of benchmarks, given the virtual price parity Intel's performance advantages in some tests make the Core 2 or Pentium Dual-Core a more sensible buy. Both the Core 2 Duo E4500 and Pentium E2160 are great choices, as are their lower clocked variants; it really boils down to price point.

Once you take overclocking into account though, it's tough to beat Intel's Pentium Dual-Core lineup. With 65%+ overclocks - with little effort and using stock cooling - the Pentium E2140 and E2160 are easily the best buys on the market today. If you're absolutely opposed to overclocking, then the AMD/Intel question is a tossup, but if you've got no problems pushing clocks then Intel is the clear choice at all price points.”

Nothing new here. Unless you are building an HTPC system, the Intel Core 2 Duo E4300/4400 is the obvious choice in the low $100 range, particularly when you take overclocking into consideration.

Click here to read the full article.
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DigitalLife 2007 Coverage

October 1, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Our friends over at TechGage have posted 4 interesting articles the showcasing DigitalLife 2007 event.

Check it out:

• DigitalLife 2007: Showstoppers.
  
  

  “Although Showstoppers had only 32 exhibitors, we found many cool products to write about. Included in this article are quick looks at the wireless speaker lamp, Eye Clops, Iomega's 3TB NAS, magicJACK and much more.”

  
  
• DigitalLife 2007: Gateway Unveils The "One".
  
  

  “After months of speculation, Gateway finally unveiled their One "all-in-one" PC. Once out of the box, all that's required to get up and running is a single power cord. We had an opportunity to take a good look at the machine today and relay our thoughts here.”

  
  
• DigitalLife 2007: AGEIA's Mobile PPU, Warmonger, UT3 Mod.
  
  

  “We caught up with AGEIA at DigitalLife to see what's new and were surprised to see that some big announcements have been made, including inclusion of their PhysX PPU in Dell's latest XPS M1730 notebooks. We also take UT3 and Warmonger for a spin and give our thoughts.”

  
  
• DigitalLife 2007: On The Showfloor - Part 2.
  
  

  “In our final portion of DigitalLife coverage, we take a look at Gateway's new 30-inch monitor that you do want to see, Toshiba's latest X205 SLI-configured notebook, ooma's "free" VoIP solution, Gyration's latest media remote and even more photos from around the show floor.”

If you have some free time on your hands, it's definitely worth a look!

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Cooler Master CM 690 Case Review

October 1, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

If you’re looking for an affordable case with no compromises read on! Hardware Logic has just reviewed the terrific Cooler Master CM 690 case.

Here’s what they had to say:

“The idea that an enthusiast must settle on a case that may do one or two things well, based purely on price has effectively been crushed. The CM 690 simply offers the best bang for the buck, hands down. Admittedly, it does have a few problems, but not enough to mar an otherwise stellar chassis. If the only problems that this enclosure has is that it weighs a ton and that the side panels are difficult to remove, then that is a very small price to pay for an enclosure that contains a load of sweet features and executes them flawlessly.”

For $60USD, this is definitely one of the best values on the market. Aside from a removal motherboard tray, which is rarity in sub-$200 cases, Cooler Master has outfitted the CM 690 with every feature that I can think of. I am very, very impressed!

Click here to read the full review.
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Rivatuner v2.05 Released

October 1, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Our friends over at Guru3D have let us know that there is a new Rivatuner available, version 2.05.

Minor bugfixes:

• Fixed I2C write routine for ATI R600 graphics processors family, which has been erroneously commented the previous version's source code.
• Minor UI and localization fixes.

What's new:

• Updated databases for Detonator and ForceWare drivers. Added databases for ForceWare 163.69 and 163.71.
• Improved driver-level overclocking module for NVIDIA display adapters:
• Added new user interface for independent G8x GPU family shader clock control interfaces of the ForceWare 163.67 and newer drivers. New UI includes:
• New independent slider for adjusting shader domain clock.
• New "Link clocks" option allows you to use either traditional shader/ROP clock ratio based overclocking or completely asynchronous shader/ROP clock overclocking. Now you may either tick "Link clocks" options and adjust ROP clock only, allowing RivaTuner to overclock shader domain using VGA BIOS default shader/ROP clock ratio similar to pre-163.67 drivers, or untick "Link clocks" options and adjust domain clocks fully independently.
• New overclocking profile format supporting independent shader clocks. Please take a note that old overclocking profiles are not supported by RivaTuner, so you must recreate previously existing overclocking profiles.
• Previously available power user oriented ShaderClockRatio registry entry is now obsolete and it no longer exists in RivaTuner's database. Previously available ratio based shader domain overclocking functionality is now fully covered by new independent shader clock slider and new "Link clocks" option.
• New user interface is provided by default under ForceWare 163.67 and newer drivers under Windows Vista, however Windows XP owners can also force Vista specific overclocking interfaces usage by setting NVAPIUsageBehaviour to 1. If needed, shader clock control can be forcibly disabled and old traditional overclocking module UI appearance can be forced by setting NVAPIShaderClockControl to 0.
• Power user oriented adjustable minimum and maximum clock slider limits have been expanded from 25%-300% to 10%-800%.
• Added experimental SLI overclocking for Vista. Please take a note that I have no SLI rig for testing and development, so this feature has been added blindly and RivaTuner still doesn't provide official SLI support.
• Minor UI changes and improvements.

Click here to download it.
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Nvidia Preparing Triple SLI

October 1, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

X-bit Labs is reporting that Nvidia is planning to introduce 3-way SLI technology, aimed at the high-end enthusiast market.

Here’s what they had to say:

“Initially Nvidia plans to enable triple SLI support for the top-of-the-range GeForce 8800 GTX and Ultra graphics cards, however, eventually it may support 3-way configurations of other GPUs as well. Systems with three graphics cores will be powered by Nvidia nForce 680i as well as nForce 780i platforms with the former supporting PCI Express 1.1/1.0a, whereas the latter featuring PCI Express 2.0 along with a special “BR04” switch for more efficient multi-GPU operation.”

Overkill? Probably, but apparently there is a demand for such excess. Hopefully, this will motivate Nvidia to improve their multi-GPU support under Vista.

Click here to read the article.

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Zalman Reserator XT Liquid Cooling System Review

October 1, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

While Zalman is best known for their unmistakable heatsink designs, the company has also expanded into numerous other sectors, one of which is water cooling. Virtual Hideout has just posted a review of Zalman’s new Reserator XT Liquid Cooling System.

Let’s see what they had to say:

“The Zalman Reserator XT was one of the easiest water cooling rigs I have set up to date. The internal reservoir easily holds just over 1 liter of coolant, and removing air from the internal lines and pumps are key. Remember when I said I let the Res XT run for about 30 minutes before I powered up the system? Well, about 10 minutes into run, the pump changed speeds and the flow indicator slowed down. The next thing I heard was a bunch of air moving around internally, and then saw the bubbles in the flow gauge. Basically, the Res XT burped and once that happened the flow needle held steady. After another 20 minutes, I felt the system had been fully burped and was ready to test.”

Coming from Zalman, it’s no surprise that the Reserator XT looks pretty slick. However, the functionality and performance are what make this an excellent product for those who aren’t ready for the DIY approach to water cooling.

Click here to read the full review.

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Crucial Ballistix PC3-12800 DDR3 Memory Review

October 1, 2007 - Patrick "MACMAC" MacMillan

Since it was launched in 2004, Crucial’s Ballistix series has been a dominant force in the enthusiast-level memory sector. As a division of Micron, Crucial has been able to outfit their Ballistix memory kits with the very best memory chips on the market, and the results speak for themselves. Does the company’s DDR3 memory kits continue this solid tradition? Let’s find out. 3DGameMan has posted a review of the Crucial Ballistix PC3-12800 DDR3 memory kit.

Let’s see what they had to say:

“So while much higher speeds are possible, performance in most applications will be about the same as DDR2 memory. From my experience DDR2 at 1200MHz is about the same as DDR3 memory at 1800MHz. That being said, should you upgrade your motherboard and memory to this new DDR3 memory standard? Well, if you are doing a complete upgrade I would recommend it, but otherwise stick with DDR2 memory.”

Ok, not quite the in-depth review we were looking for, more of a preview really, but I will try to find a more thorough article soon. Nevertheless, 1800Mhz 8-8-8 is promising, and I’ve already seen this memory hit over 2000Mhz in more experienced hands.

Click here to read the full review.
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