Performance – 1/5
There are three reasons to run multiple pumps:
1. To improve performance
2. To reduce noise by maintaining performance and running pumps at a lower speed
3. To add redundancy and maintain system operation after a pump fails
The Alphacool repack completely fails at 1 and 2. The only use model therefore is to be used for two parallel loops with a shared reservoir. Even if you used it for two parallel loops then it might be useful to have separate reservoirs so that you can fill and maintain each loop separately. Even when we ignore all of this, the single pump performance is still behind the competition.
Features – 2/5
This setup is so far behind what the Koolance RP-452×2 can do that it should even be considered in the same league. For example the reservoir is always shared, pumps can not be setup in series, there is no secondary fill port. For a parallel setup the required y adapter is not included. The minimum fill line on the front plate isn’t even correct. LED’s are not included, nor can they be fitted later. There are no vibration reduction mounts.
Quality – 2.5/5
While the acetal parts are machined acceptably, and the cast nylon pump rings are strong, the use of so many pieces of acrylic that are then glued together is a huge weakness. In addition screwing into acrylic is hardly desirable either. Having said that, it didn’t leak or crack even when subjected to two maxed out D5 strongs. I also didn’t strip any threads.
Aesthetics – 2.5/5
Aesthetics are in the eye of the beholder. I’ve never been a huge fan of Alphacool’s black and copper look. However the front plate just looks a bit cheap and in addition one of the screws that secured it didn’t even match. The best looking part of the design is the back which would never be seen.
Value – 3/5
At $106 with no pumps, it’s slightly cheaper than the better designed, better performing and better quality $130 Koolance RP-452×2. However once you factor in the cost for two D5 pumps then the price difference is small relatively. If you’re using it only for one pump the XSPC Dual Bay D5 unit is cheaper still.
Conclusion – Avoid!
A poorly designed, poorly performing dual bay d5 unit that can not be used in one of the modes that many users would wish to use it. If you need two pumps in one unit dual bay unit then please please please spend the extra and buy the Koolance.
Where to buy – $106 no pump version here, or $173 with 1 pump, or $246 with 2 pumps fitted.
