Quote Originally Posted by Skerlnik View Post
I had the foresight to check my CPU and heatsink with a razor before installing. Both parts weren't flat, so I'll probably do some sanding work eventually. The funny thing is, I threw this box together quickly, and just used Thermalright's paste (yes I have some AS-5) without even properly cleaning the CPU, and it runs at 3600 mhz @ 1.38v at 43c idle. Not a shabby CPU! I imagine once I lapp the parts I may see another 5c drop.

- Sker
I'm skeptical about lapping CPU's or heatsinks. If done right, it might lower your temps, but I don't think the difference is really all that apparent. Some lapped CPU's look very cool with intense reflections.

I think it's your motherboard and the Thermalright Extreme heatsink that are giving you very good overclocks. That MSI board is the same as the platinum with lower quality heatpipes. Everyone is on the Gigabyte/ASUS bandwagon, but MSI has been making some outstanding motherboard over the years. The P35 NEO-2 is one of those great boards.