Could someone please tell me which is the best HSF for an Intel Core 2 Extreme QX9770 taking overclocking into consideration? Could someone also tell me which is the best PCI-E sound card for gaming please? Since I was going to get the ASUS Xonar HDAV1.3 but can't find it any where to buy in the UK. Price isn't a concern for either of these components, thanks.
I'd say Thermalright Ultra 120 eXtreme as the HSF (doesn't come with a fan though) and try to find the Xonar somewhere, because that's what I recommend. Just my two cents
It doesn't matter if it doesn't come with fan as I just can buy one separately. Is that any Xonar or the Xonar HDAV1.3? Thanks.
The HDAV1.3 isn't out yet, so the only choice you have at the moment is the D2 or D2X if you want a high end model. They are the same, but the D2 is a PCI model, while the D2X is a PCI-E model.
So is the Xonar D2X my best bet for a PCI-E sound card at the moment? Do you know when the Xonar HDAV1.3 comes out? Thanks.
I'd agree with the 120 is you want fairly quiet, but excellent cooling. Or a HR-01 Plus plus silent fan (in my case I have a Noctua NF-P12) if you want great cooling but be near silent. Both solutions will work well with your hardware. I'd also second a Xonar, but unlike some other posters, I think the D2/D2X versions are probably too high-end, unless you are some sort of musician/sound recording enthusiast. If you just want a better alternative to your average X-F (Gamer or Music), I'd recomment the cheaper (£50) Xonar DX.
