7950 query

[Radiance]

Hi all.
Been a while since my last build (HD4850).

I am considering a 7950 for my new build to go with an overclocked 3570k (will be sometime in Jan) and was leaning towards the Gigabyte model.
Since it's been a while I was wondering if anyone could shed some light on a few things.

I have noticed that several 7970s are now being voltage locked and have heard a few 7950s are too, could anyone tell me which (if any) of the 7950s are.
How is the stock cooler of the Gigabyte in relation to the other brands?

Feel free to chip in with any advice too, would be much appreciated and thanks for any feedback

 

[rolypolyman]

Ok, my Gigabyte WF3 7950 bought on 19\11\12 is the same model as the one you listed.
So far they are not voltage locked but may come with various bioses which may restrict voltages but which can be bios flashed to enable voltage increases, if necessary. The most recent bios with these cards appears to be FZ0, which bizarrely you wont find on Gigabytes website, these cards run at 1000core and with a 1.25v, but as previously said you can bios flash to a different bios if you wish, at your own risk.

As far as cooling goes the WF3 is second to none as far as I'm concerned, as long as you have good air circulation in your case as the heat is dumped in the case. My temps are 26c idle 63c load. The IceQ Boost is an excellent 7950 with a different style cooler which dumps the heat out of the case. In my opinion these are the two best 7950s and I only separate them with the Gigabyte 3yr warranty and Uk Rma.