apollo
03-23-2005, 07:20 PM
I just picked up the <a href="http://www.ocztechnology.com/products/power_management/ocz_modstream_power_supply">OCZ ModStream PSU 450W</a> (also available in 520W model). I apologize if this is too wordy - it's my first review :D
Functionality
As far as max load and stability, I have to confess that I'm pretty inexperienced with evaluating and understanding things (detailed specs can be viewed via the link above). I relied heavily on some objective reviews I read in various places - all of which indicated that the OCZ is a good, solid PSU. As far as I've been able to see since installing it a week ago, it's all that and then some. The only functionality issue I experienced was connecting the relatively short (imo) ATX cable to the MoBo - I had to pick up a 10" extender (2-3" would easily have done the job, but only the 10" size was available). The extra length allowed me to run the cable behind the rear panel so that's OK. The modular cables are all excellent - smooth connect/disconnect, no sticking, well-made. They are a little on the stiff side but I had no difficulty in getting them just the way I wanted them. The entire unit is very clean and well-constructed.
Visual
The OCZ looks great: mirror-like dark titanium finish, blue LED 120mm fan on the underside and the UV reactive modular cables are terrific (see system specs in sig - I've got a load of UV in my case already so it compliments things really nice). In the looks department, my only complaint is that, when installed, the hard-wired cables (ATX, 4-pin extenders, etc.) are in a tight little bundle right next to my window. Not a huge issue - I just would have preferred them to be on the other side.
Noise
One of the other main selling points OCZ lists is the silent running. No arguments there - it really is whisper quiet. The 120mm fan is very well seated so there's no rattle or anything like that. Obviously, a larger fan can move lots of air at slower speeds which helps reduce noise. No complaints to report here.
Overall
This is the first PSU I've purchased on its own - I've always just relied on the one that came with my systems. The OCZ ModStream is everything I was led to believe it would be: a strong, stable, good-looking, quiet PSU that will meet my needs for a good long while. The extensive warranty also speaks volumes about OCZ's confidence in their product. I give it a 10 out of 10. This is a great PSU - I'm happy to provide more details to anyone who wants them.
Functionality
As far as max load and stability, I have to confess that I'm pretty inexperienced with evaluating and understanding things (detailed specs can be viewed via the link above). I relied heavily on some objective reviews I read in various places - all of which indicated that the OCZ is a good, solid PSU. As far as I've been able to see since installing it a week ago, it's all that and then some. The only functionality issue I experienced was connecting the relatively short (imo) ATX cable to the MoBo - I had to pick up a 10" extender (2-3" would easily have done the job, but only the 10" size was available). The extra length allowed me to run the cable behind the rear panel so that's OK. The modular cables are all excellent - smooth connect/disconnect, no sticking, well-made. They are a little on the stiff side but I had no difficulty in getting them just the way I wanted them. The entire unit is very clean and well-constructed.
Visual
The OCZ looks great: mirror-like dark titanium finish, blue LED 120mm fan on the underside and the UV reactive modular cables are terrific (see system specs in sig - I've got a load of UV in my case already so it compliments things really nice). In the looks department, my only complaint is that, when installed, the hard-wired cables (ATX, 4-pin extenders, etc.) are in a tight little bundle right next to my window. Not a huge issue - I just would have preferred them to be on the other side.
Noise
One of the other main selling points OCZ lists is the silent running. No arguments there - it really is whisper quiet. The 120mm fan is very well seated so there's no rattle or anything like that. Obviously, a larger fan can move lots of air at slower speeds which helps reduce noise. No complaints to report here.
Overall
This is the first PSU I've purchased on its own - I've always just relied on the one that came with my systems. The OCZ ModStream is everything I was led to believe it would be: a strong, stable, good-looking, quiet PSU that will meet my needs for a good long while. The extensive warranty also speaks volumes about OCZ's confidence in their product. I give it a 10 out of 10. This is a great PSU - I'm happy to provide more details to anyone who wants them.