Verdict: Noisier than a Nuremberg rally

The Hyper 6+ is Cooler Master's current top-of-the-range universal HSF. It's compatible with all modern CPU sockets, plus a few older types, such as Socket A and Socket 478.

It comprises a copper base with six heatpipes that transfer heat away from the CPU into a collection of serrated aluminium fins. These in turn are cooled by a 100mm fan, although its 4-pin connector means that the automatic speed control function will only work on a Pentium 4 motherboard with PWM. On an Athlon 64 motherboard, the fan will run at the full 3,800rpm. However, at this speed, it produces an incredibly loud 46.4dBA.

As you'd expect from an HSF cooled by a 3,800rpm fan, the Hyper 6+ is very effective, and cooled both test CPUs to 19ûC below the reference HSFs. Fortunately, your ears won't have to suffer the Hyper 6+, though, as several other HSFs can deliver the same level of cooling with much quieter fans.

There's no questioning the Hyper 6+'s cooling ability, but the trade-off is very high fan noise, which means it's only worth considering if you're stone-deaf.

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