gdawgatl :
So I have a bit of a dilemma. This is my first gaming rig, and I am using an i7 6700K CPU and G.Skill Ripjaws V series 2 x 8gb. My problem is that the D15 cannot fit both those sticks, as they are 42mm tall and I cannot raise the second fan up enough as my case clearance is 170 mm. So, do I get the D14 (which I think can fit the sticks), use only one stick of ram, return the ram I have now and get a smaller one, or just go liquid cooling? Thanks.
It's unfortunate that RAM manufacturers have to give us these silly heat sinks whose whole function if to a) look cool and b) serve as a billboard for their name / logo.
Options:
1. Move the fan to other side.
2, Use appropriately sized sticks
3. Use an alternate that has that clearance CryoriG R1 will work, Phanteks PH-TC14-PE would work if ya slide the 1 fan up 2mm. It's usually $65-$75 and can pick color to match ya build.
4. Switch to liquid cooling, but not a CLC. The Corsair H100i, will raise CPU temps higher than the Noc and is 12 times louder.... not to mention weak pumps, aluminum rads and extreme rpm fans. If the $140 - $150 budget doesn't bother you, the Swiftech H220 X2 for 120mm rads and fans or the H240 X2 for 140mm rads / fans. But it's a great investment as pump is strong enough to add water blocks for GPus, more fans, radiator is copper so you can water cool your GPU to for just the cost of a block and a pair of fittings.
http://www.swiftech.com/aio.aspx