Synthetic Temperature Test Results:

Based on just the small copper die template test results the SK6 lands itself in at the second position. Notice the really amazing results on the large copper die template! The SK6 manages to bring in a temp of 38.9 degrees which is really low compared to the other coolers. On first glance it looks like the SK6 posses some really good thermal properties. For the moment, the CAK38 still holds its ground with the lowest temp, but I have a feeling that the rise above ambient temperature results will change things quite significantly - so let's check those out right now.

True to form, the Thermalright SK6 does an outstanding job on both the large copper die template and the large copper die template. We're really only interested in the results on the latter thought. With the small copper die template underfoot the embedded thermistor registered a temperature rise of only 20 degrees Celsius, just managing to edge out the more roughly hewn CAK38.

With all those thin copper fins the SK6 has a quite a large surface area and it shows in its' ability to keep out synthetic test apparatus cool. However, we used a 6800RPM Delta fan to achieve these results, and as many of you already know the Delta fan generates a lot of noise. To give you a chance to see what we mean first hand you can now listen to this heatsink!

Acoustic Sample: Thermalright SK-6

Using the Delta AFB0612EH 25mm thick 60mm fan on our Thermalright SK6 we recorded the following start-up and running noise for about ten seconds. Shown are the spectral and waveform images of the noise that was produced by the mounted Delta fan. The noise is combination of the fan, and the particular characteristics of the air moving through the SK6's fins.

The intensity of the sound can be gauged by the waveform image. Generally the smaller the waveform the quieter the heatsink will be. As the Delta is one of the loudest cooling solutions in use, this waveform represents the louder end of the spectrum. A quieter heatsink would have a waveform which is much flatter than the one shown.

Click on the headphones icon to Listen to this Heatsink!