Closer Look:

The Maze-5 and MC-TDX are two of the newest cooling blocks to the DangerDen arsenal. These blocks aren't entirely different from previous model cooling blocks. But, they are improved in minute ways that helps position these blocks to cool the latest Multi Core processors. These blocks are specifically aimed at Intel's LGA 775 socket processors, from the Pentium D to the Core 2 Quad Extreme.

The brothers

Maze 5

MC-TDX

First out of the box is the Maze-5 CPU Cooler. It's a DangerDen manufactured brass top edition for those who like a more contemporary appearance that's engineered for Quad core processors. It's assembled with a very smooth copper base sporting the patented "Maze" channels that have performed quite well in past revisions. The Maze-5 is a variant of the very capable Maze 5 GPU copper base. The base is so efficient and larger than previous versions, that it can cool a much greater surface area of a processor whether single or multi-core.

Maze 5

The block has a very evenly brushed top that's about an 1/8 inch thick which doubles as the block's main mounting bracket. At first, it didn't seem quite that flattering sitting by itself uninstalled. But, once the block was inside the test system, it stood out more. Everything was clean and orderly among the chaos of heat pipes, heat sinks, and capacitors.

One side

Another side

The block's copper base doesn't have a mirror polish lapping. This won't effect performance given how smooth it is. If it were merely brushed with a noticeably grooved base, then performance could suffer due to the low surface contact. This is not the case and isn't really necessary. I can personally sacrifice the expectation of a mirror finish which will eventually fade or wear off as opposed to excellent performance. And any avid water cooler expects a great looking block and good performance over an unseen copper base. And as always, the intake barb directs the water directly down on the center of the channels which dissipates heat quicker.

Copper base

Smooth lapping

Second block on the scene is the MC-TDX, the newest Multi-Core supporting CPU cooling block to come from DangerDen. Granted, most of their other blocks can work fine and well on a dual core processor, but they aren't specifically designed and constructed to really excel on Dual and Quad core processors. Whether we need it, like it, or not, multi-core processors are here to stay. The MC-TDX is optimized for any and every block from the past and the present.

MC-TDX

Looking over the MC-TDX, it makes its return with the familiar, top of line Lucite top. If you would like the MC-TDX with a more contemporary feel, you can also order the block directly with a brass top instead. For our testing purposes and because I tend to lean more towards the flashy water blocks, we've got the Lucite version which also doubles as the main mounting bracket. The Lucite top is about 1/4 inch thick which makes it very strong. Acrylic, or Plexiglass materials can be strong as well, but tends to be more susceptible to things like cleaners and physical stress. Lucite tends to be much more resilient and still looks as good.

Lucite top

Well built

Since this is the "BMW" of the their Multi-Core design, the copper block is top notch as well with a very smooth base finish. The block is roughly 1/4 thick, yet is quite light given the block's overall design. Inside the block are 240 Heat Dissipating Columns, or HDCs. You can see that the block's internal HDCs are just tall enough to allow optimal thermal transfer without disrupting liquid flow. The intake barb is arranged so that the liquid comes in right directly over the center of the HDCs.

Copper base

Nice lapping

Each block kit includes all the bolts, screws, washers, and nuts even if it may be overkill. DangerDen never skimps on the mounting materials, so even if you don't need them now, you may need them later for future installations. Some users really like numerous washers even if some what redundant. It's still good planning and worth the fuss. Now, suppose you didn't get any installation directions or lost them in the chaos with your system strewn about? Worry not, you can easily download them from www.Dangerden.com if you can't figure out the installation process.

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