Antec Aria - what CPU cooling ?

[machinist]

Calling all Antec Aria/NSK1300 owners - can I ask what CPU cooler you use ?

This case is v.tight for anything too big, and I want something as silent as possible (it's for a HTPC) for a socket AM2 board. I'm currently using the Arctic Cooling Silencer 64 Ultra TC which I had to modify somewhat just to fit.

Was looking at the Zalman CNPS7000B-Cu but it doesn't state it supports socket AM2.

Any help appreciated.

[machinist]

some1 must own one ? pretty please

[machinist]

Resurrecting a mega-old thread !

I'm seriously considering purchasing a Zalman CNPS8000 low profile CPU cooler for my socket AM2 mobo in my Antec NSK1300 case.
Does anyone have this combination ? Will it fit in the case ?

[wja96]

I have successfully used a Thermaltake Golden Orb in there. I could not get a Blue Orb to fit unless I filed 8mm of fins off one side of the cooler.

There is also some variability in the exact placing of the CPU socket relative to the motherboard mounting holes.

The single biggest issue for me was re-fitting the power supply once I had the CPU cooler in place. Anything bigger than a 92mm fan flower type cooler has problems sliding the PSU down behind the cooler and then under the lip of the case chassis.

If you haven't already bought the Aria I would have to recommend something else (Silverstone SG-01). If you have already bought the Aria you probably know by now that it's the best place to house a high performance cpu.

[machinist]

Agreed it isn't the best place for a high powered CPU.

Question : was your Golden Orb on a socket AM2 mobo ?

[wja96]

No, but the new ones have an AM2 fitting kit.

[wja96]

Given your predeliction for machining things - have a look at the Ruby Orb and think about shaving a few mm off the sides.

[machinist]

No, but the new ones have an AM2 fitting kit.

The new ones ? As in the latest shipping Golden Orbs, not Ruby's ?

..oh, and LOL at last comment