Alright, this thread is the best resource on the net. Believe me, I have read all the reviews but just people using this thing and posting here is outstanding. So here is my deal. I have been waiting for this case to come back in stock for over a month and a half. When it did, I was in time to grab one. So I receive the case and what do you know, Intel's SB goes and gets recalled. I have a little extra time to research now so here are my questions for the [H]orde:
-I see one of the preferred cpu coolers is the Noctua NH-U9B SE2. I am fine with that cooler but I really wanted to use a Coolermaster Hyper 212+. I prefer a bigger slower fan for airflow and the Coolermaster is just a great cooler for the money. I am worried about size though. I wanted to do a North/South orientation. Does anybody have a Hyper 212+ installed and can verify it will be a winner? Other suggestions based on my preferences?
-I have a Antec Earthwatts 500 watt psu that I just happen to get for a good deal that I plan on using. Problem here is that due to space the single bundle or wires appears to be a hassle. Are all of you using modular psu's happy that you went modular or is there enough space behind the hd's to stuff the extras? I am only building a server box so I won't need a monster psu.
-Fans. I am going to get rid of the blue fans on the front. I want it to be as inconspicuous as possible. Just sit there and spit out data. I was going to go with Scythe Gentle Typhoons to replace them because I have had great experiences with them before and with the built in fan controller I figure I can throw in the 1850 rpms and just dial them in. Maybe the 1450's to make sure I keep the 140mm fan in step as well. There are a million fans on the market but I just want a good mix of low noise with decent airflow. Opinions?
You can probably fit larger coolers in a south/north configuration as it would just clear the PSU, however installing the fan(s) might be an issue as it would interfere with the PSU. The reason for the Noctua NH-U9B SE2 is because it fits below the PSU when in stalled.
If your using a non-modular PSU, you can probably place the cabling on the bottom of the case or behind the HDD rack. However getting a modular PSU would be better as it does get tight in there. Space is a premium.
I've been tempted to replace the front Lian Li case fans with either the Sycthe S-Flex 1200rpm or the Noctua P-12. The reason for these two fans is because they provide high static pressure especially when you combine that with the front filters of the case. Currently I have a coolermaster blue LED exhaust fan (taken from my old PC), a Noctua 140mm top fan and the two standard lian li fans on the front. All of them are connected to the fan controller and when turned on high you can hear the slight hum of the front fans (this is having the PC on the table and next to my monitor)