Nothing like some EKWB monoblock action to make things even better. Also, I made sure to leave the sticker on to ensure the block's freshness.
Not quite a glamor shot, but let's be honest: it's what's on the inside that counts.
The bottom radiator is a bit awkward, but if you need 360mm's of radiator space in a small case, you'll do what you need to.
The custom pump/reservoir that made this build possible. It's a perfect fit between the PSU "shroud" and the XSPC AX240 radiator.
Another front-on view. Very, very blue.
A picture of the top of the case. I do love how everything is laid out.
The initial fit of the pump/res into the case. Very, very fortunate that everything was spot on the first time as it really sucks when it doesn't...
Installed the D5 that I sleeved into the pump/res.
A mid-tubing photo. Notice the contrast of the old carpet with the sleek angles of the computer case.
This was fun: getting the GPU into the loop.
A picture of the back of the case. In builds like these, cable management is paramount.
Shift X HTPC of Doom
I saw the Phanteks Shift case and said: I'd love to put a loop into that. Then, after looking at the Shift, decided that I'd like a bit more room to stuff things into and ended up purchasing the Shift X.
The Basics
So, I wanted to put a full loop (CPU + GPU + VRM) into the case, but realized there were going to be some major space constraints. I also wanted to use a D5 pump as the acoustics are better overall for its placement in the living room.
It also needed some oomph with respect to the GPU: and a GTX 1080 seemed like an appropriate choice.
Custom Stuff
With the help of some crazy measurements, and Radikult's awesome machining, I managed to get everything into the case, working, and relatively quiet. While the case does suffer airflow issues due to its general layout, the overall result was much better than I thought it had any right to be.