Thermaltake BigWater Water Cooling Kit

Conclusion

I am at a loss to explain how the Thermaltake BigWater came so VERY close to the performance of the Asetek kit.  Keep in mind the Asetek kit uses a 185 gph pump and 1/2" OD line whereas the Thermaltake kit uses a much lower 32 gph pump and 5/16" OD line.  The Thermaltake unit also did not have the benefit of a 6" x 2 1/2" reservoir.  My only thoughts are that the water block design is superior as well as perhaps the lower speed pump allows the radiator more time to pull heat out of the water cycling in the system.  Anyway you cut it, Thermaltake has one helluva kit here.  By decreasing the fan speed to about one quarter performance only took a two degree hit.  I also want to point out that the Tt kit is effectively silent with the fan running slow while the hum of the Asetek pump was low but clearly perceptible.

To say I was impressed would be an understatement.  Thermaltake has certainly done their homework here.  Excellent performance both in raw cooling power and quiet operation, easy installation coupled with a $120 price tag make the BigWater a BigWinner.  The only downside of this unit from Thermaltake's point of view would be that it effectively kills the market for the Aquarius II and III units.  I fully expect that as this kit gets more coverage from other review sites, its reputation will grow quickly as an exceptional water cooling kit at an exceptional price.  Great job Thermaltake.

Pros

• Excellent cooling

• Inexpensive

• Fits LGA775, P4, K7, K8 and AMD Sempron

• Very compact

• Easy installation

• Efficient water block design

• Ultra compact pump with LED

• Pump inlets and outlets "bend" making installation that much easier.

• UV reactive lines and coolant (PLENTY extra of each)

Cons

• Must have mainboard with holes around socket for all applications but AMD K7.

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Pg 1 - Introduction
Pg 2 - Components
Pg 3 - Installation
Pg 4 - Performance
Pg 5 - Conclusion