[Martinsliquidlab] i7-2600K EK Supreme HF Copper/Plexi Review

[Martinm210]

Detailed Review Link (http://martinsliquidlab.org/2011/06/27/i7-2600k-cpu-ek-supreme-hf-acryliccopper/)

Quick version below:

This test is of a copper base and plexi (Acrylic) top version of the Supreme HF. I also tested the new LGA-115X True back plate system. Special thanks to Eddy and Tiborrr from EK for the review samples.:up:


The block
http://martinsliquidlab.files.wordpress.com/2011/06/ek_supreme_hf-23.jpg?w=614&h=487

http://martinsliquidlab.files.wordpress.com/2011/06/ek_supreme_hf-6.jpg?w=614&h=447

http://martinsliquidlab.files.wordpress.com/2011/06/ek_supreme_hf-7.jpg?w=614&h=576

http://martinsliquidlab.files.wordpress.com/2011/06/ek_supreme_hf-10.jpg?w=614&h=382


TRUE Backplate
http://martinsliquidlab.files.wordpress.com/2011/06/ek_supreme_hf-20.jpg?w=614&h=392

http://martinsliquidlab.files.wordpress.com/2011/06/ek_supreme_hf-22.jpg?w=614&h=317

While not easy, the TRUE system is a big improvement over the universal back plate supplied with the block. It eliminates the plastic standoffs and stud tightening issues and provides a much more refined install and more positive feedback on the thumbnuts ensuring equal mounting pressure.

Base
http://martinsliquidlab.files.wordpress.com/2011/06/ek_supreme_hf-12.jpg?w=614&h=409

Large Barb Compatibility
http://martinsliquidlab.files.wordpress.com/2011/06/ek_supreme_hf-17.jpg?w=614&h=607

Restriction Testing
http://martinsliquidlab.files.wordpress.com/2011/06/eksupremehf-pd2.png?w=578&h=484

Extremely low in restriction, it takes the crown in being the lowest restriction block in this round so far...

Thermal Testing
http://martinsliquidlab.files.wordpress.com/2011/06/eksupremehf-th9.png?w=560&h=540

http://martinsliquidlab.files.wordpress.com/2011/06/eksupremehf-th10.png?w=575&h=541

Conclusion
The EK Supreme HF is an excellent block. It is the least restrictive block tested in my i7 round of tests and #2 in thermal results. Performance wise it’s hard to say anything bad, it simply performs well thermally and of extremely low restriction.

The mounting mechanism however could use some improvement. I consider the new “Easy Mount” only average in difficulty. It has 31 loose parts that requires removal of the motherboard…that’s just not easy compared to other blocks that have as little as two parts with a sticky back back plate. I would also encourage other 1155 users to purchase the TRUE back plate system as I feel it’s really almost necessary to get a very good fit. The universal back plate included with the block does work, but the TRUE is a much more refined back plate system. Some users may actually prefer a bolt on back plate system to avoid "Sticking" something to the motherboard, but these types of systems do take a bit more time to install. The Supreme HF easy mount system is a bit different than other's reviewed. It does incorporate features to ensure equal mounting pressure on all four corners which is a bonus and it does look clean when installed, it just doesn't do so AND minimize the number of loose parts. I did loose a washer and spring a few times while testing which is pretty common to these loose parts type systems, but the mounting difficulty wasn't too out of the ordinary once the TRUE back plate system was all put in place. Anyhow, I consider it more of a "pro mount" rather than easy since it does take care of the mounting pressure piece.

Aesthetically, I think it looks good, but perhaps a bit simple in shape. Visuals are always very subjective, but I’ll cut it some slack here despite the blocky appearance since there are many top material/color options to choose from. You pick and choose what you want for top materials and that’s definitely going to help fit more users needs on visuals.

Bottom line, exemplary low restriction (Best i7 block to date!), very good thermal performance, and average mounting system.

Pros


Extremely low restriction #1 block in i7 testing round.
Very good thermal performance in i7 testing round (#2 in best of 5 mounts).
Very complete package (Includes back plate and hold down for AMD and Intel), missing barbs only.
Good quality MX-4 Thermal Compound Included
Good machining quality
A plethora of top material options including plexi, acetal, or full copper in various colors
Wide G1/4 barb spacing is compatible with large compression fittings


Cons


Mounting mechanism is time consuming, requires MB removal and installation of 31 loose parts.



Recommended Accessory

TRUE back plate for LGA-115X users is a more precise and better fitting back plate installation


Cheers!:toast:
Martin

[Utnorris]

It's funny, we come all this way with blocks and performance, but only two improved their back plates for simple installation, Swiftech and Koolance. By the way, you think that one is difficult to get on, try the Aquacomputer Kyros. That was a PITA to get on. Luckily I had my MB out of the case as it would have been impossible to do otherwise. Love the block, hate the mount. Also, nice review.

[coolhandluke41]

Thanks for the review Martin

[Beriphent]

Great review, so the EK Supreme HF is still a top contender after a few years running now. I am glad that EK made the 115X mounting backplate, as some motherboards can have things on the bottom of the board obstructing the bigger universal backplate.

[Wolf132]

Id like to see this (http://www.performance-pcs.com/catalog/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=59_971_498_490&products_id=30576) block compared to the HF version if you have it :yepp: . I want to see where that extra 30$ actually goes.

[tiborrr]

Nice and objective review there Martin! :up:

[D0m|nat0R]

Good job martin :) !!

[Kayin]

I like that backplate! I actually ended up using my EK universal one with my Kryos, as I got the brass one with proper mounting but no backplate. A bit longer screws and the backplate and I was in business, but I really like that integral backplate. That's what I'd call a true innovation (no pun intended.)