[matm347]

Ok, I'd recommend an external unit, this will keep things less cluttered in your case and will let the radiator have the coolest air. You might as well go ahead with 1/2", you can get the tubing from your local hardware store, something flexable that wont kink, I'd get at least 15 feet since you're going external. It should be less than $15.

Using frozencpu.com's prices/parts this is what I'd recommend.

CPU block-Swiftech Apogee, suposedly the best block on the market right now...$50

PUMP - Swiftech MCP655 12V. I've had the older version for ~5 years with 0 problems. The newest version is variable and flows a little more (1200 LPH & 10ft head)....$90

RADIATOR - I suggest at least a 2x120 but bigger is always better here. Alphacool, which looks to be a re-branded Black ice extreme, has a 2x120 for $60. There's also a BIE 3x120 (what I run) for $125. Many people simply use a heater core from an auto parts store, these will also work well and be much cheaper but may be more troublesome to hook up (fittings may be quite large). Also, you do NOT want to mix materials (aluminum and copper) in the same loop, you'll get some nasty corrosion.


RESERVOIR - You'll have to browse the different types and get the one that fits your case/setup the best. I have the round type that fits in a 120x1 fan location. I loose a fan, but since it's at the top of my case(and have another fan up there anyway) It's the easiest to keep a check on fluid level and add if needed. ~$50


FLUID - I will only recommend you get one that is designed for watercooling as automotive fluids can easily attack your parts. I made the mistake of running Red line's watter wetter, which attacked the glue on my reservoir which caused it to come apart. I now run fluid XP+, it's quite expensive but I liked that it tested just 1C warmer than pure water, is ready to run right out of the bottle (no mixing) and also lubricates my pump well.

GPU - As I said before, the DD SLI setup is nice, but expensive. It's $270 for both cards. It cools both the GPU and the front side RAM. You can go cheaper and just get some generic GPU coolers (~40 each) and run RAM sinks.

HOUSING - I used 1"x1/8" aluminum angle stock and made my own frame to hold the radiator and pump. I also had an old external hard drive rack that I swiped the power supply out of. It has no trouble powering the pump and 3 stealth fans I have. <$20.



I can take pictures if they'll help.



As you can see, it can get quite expensive. I suggest getting everything but the GPU blocks for now (which will be less than $300) and getting them as budget allows, as your cooling system will be up to the task.Some shopping around (mysimon.com) might save some $$$ as well.