Demonic XTC Waterblock Review

The modern PC watercooling kit requires at least 4 things to operate at top efficiency, pump, radiator, reservoir, and waterblock. Each of these items can have a profound effect on the system in how it performs though many will argue that the waterblock is the most important. The focus if this review will be on a very new and special waterblock called the Demonic X.T.C. (Extreme Turbulence Cooling)

3 barbs are used on the Demonic XTC to direct cooled water directly above the processor core and to equalize water pressure within the block; this is a common high-end design that works quite well. The center barb is for intake water with the remaining two used for venting. The barbs pictured are for 1/2" I.D. hose but can be replaced to match your current system configuration.

The waterblock measures 3.25" x 2" x .75" (82.5mm x 50.8mm x 19mm) and is composed of a thin copper base and clear poly top. 4 hex screws are used to fasten the block together and ensure a tight seal.

The base is machined flat and then hand polished, as you can see the finish quite smooth. The straight edge test reinforced the flatness of this block with no visible ridges or valleys.

100% polycarbonate is used to create the clear top; the material is often found in the greenhouse panels and safety glasses but is strong enough to be used as bulletproof glass when needed.

The Demonic XTC waterblock is constructed from copper 110 (99.9% pure copper) and features base thickness of 020". As the XTC name suggests the Extreme Turbulence Cooling comes from the 5 textured channels seen in the center of the water block. Demonic Water Cooling calls this "PentaHydro-Channel" and is designed to forcibly create turbulence directly over the processor core. The fins do not extend very far thus limiting when and where the turbulence will take place. The interior of the block appears to be sand blasted for texture though could be left over from a casting process.

This block is a pre-release item so the mounting hardware shown may not be typical of the final retail waterblock. It has been confirmed that 1/2" I.D. hose barbs will be included along with a "Y" adaptor and suitable mounting hardware.

Since the barb holes are drilled to a standard size they can easily be changed out to match your current setup. For instance the system I have on hand uses 3/8" I.D. hose meaning that a slight change was in order.