OCZ ModStream 520W Power Supply Review - PAGE 4

The OCZ ModStream 520W power supply has turned out to be a pleasure to work with, but has a few small quirks. This power supply looks great, feels well-built, performs decently, and is virtually silent when used in a computer system. The complaints we have about the ModStream are minor, but worthy of mention.

Firstly, the power supply could possibly use a small adjustment of the potentiometer for the +12V rail, as that rail dipped to +11.80V under even medium load but we did not experience any stability issue. We should have our hands on a SLI rig in a short while and will put the OCZ and its competitors under a bit more strain and update the results here.

Another complaint we have is the relatively rigid cables. While this probably isn't that much of an issue in a larger case, these cables can be somewhat difficult to guide around and orient at sharp angles. As mentioned before, thinner plastic tubing would alleviate this problem.

Lastly, and this didn't occur to us until as an afterthought, it doesn't make sense for the 4-pin slide-on connector for BTX compatibility to be a permanent fixture along with the +12V and ATX connectors. Since the main purpose of the OCZ ModStream is to reduce cable clutter in your chassis, we believe that this BTX connector should be an optional addition, with a connector on the front panel of the power supply. That way, a user without the need for BTX (who has BTX currently, anyway?) can merely avoid having that extra useless cable hanging around in their chassis.

OCZ has done an awesome job when it comes to designing a product that appeals to a large crowd, without going over the top. The casing is a very pleasant color and texture, and the blue glow of the internal LED is not too intrusive. The 120 mm fan on the bottom is exceptionally quiet, and will add very little noise to an already-running computer. The UV-reactive cabling just looks plain awesome - there are no other words for it.

EZMod is an extremely innovative idea. In a larger chassis with a SATA hard drive, the cabling actually adds to the aesthetic value of the computer, because there is not much of it present, and whatever is there is not obtrusive in appearance. Airflow is most likely also greatly increased given the presence of chassis fans, as the cabling is sparse and smooth, allowing for the easier flow of air.

In short, the OCZ ModStream 520W power supply is an awesome product both for the heavy enthusiast and for the regular user looking to clean up the cabling mess in their chassis while adding a touch of spice. Big power does not have to come with big noise, and OCZ has proven that with their inclusion of the ultra-quiet 120 mm intake fan. In this reviewer's opinion, this is definitely a product worthy of your money. In fact, this thing looks and operates so cool, we gave it our new BLING BLING! award.