1) how do you compile a specification list for a custom computer?
For me personally I ask what is required of watercooling in regards to what you actually want from the build and generally start from there. I know it may seem really obvious but it has to be asked really (what do you want to achieve, whether its be a piece of art work, to totally reduce the noise from what you have now or to maximise your the hardware you have by reducing the temperatures to get a better overclock). I personally like to use all the above while at the same time have a new project to keep me busy.
2) how important is the aesthetic of a watercooled system to you?
Usually there are enthusiasts who sit on one side of the bench, watercool everything to get the most out of their systems and be done with it. Others have have the agenda of making the watercooling a forefront feature of their build therefore aesthetics matters the most. I would probably say includidng me, most guys like maximise both to their best. So I would say aesthetics sits quite high on the agenda.
3) do you pick the best performing products or ones that look the best?
The market today is booming with great looking and performing products in one package so really its generally down to the individual. Very little between products in direct comparison for performance. However for me I generally lean towards better performance higher on the agenda then closely followed by looks.
4) how do you plan your system projects?
.Sizing up what I can fit into my case.
.Look up important componants (eg Radiators, Resevoirs) and
see if there are any modifications that need to be done.
.Look for any helpful material to aid modifications eg rad templates.
.Flush Radiators for machining defects, blocks if reusing from old.
.Build loop to how I have visualised it to be
.Fill up, test leak.
.Wire up and connect other componants to finalise build.
5)how important are watercooling brands to you and what are your favourites for different parts?
Brands are important to me. Getting a well reknowned brand backed by others if problems occur is always going to be a no brainer for me. However I have to say all brands I have used previously have not failed me and I have been very impressed. So without further ado, and in no particualar order here are my favourite brands which i have persoanlly dealt with and would happily recommend.
Blocks - EK / Aquacomputer / XSPC
Fittings - Bitspower / EK
Radiators - XSPC / Feser / Alphacool
Tubing - Primochill / XSPC / Tygon
6)are you able to look at an empty case and design a loop in your head?
Definately yes. Without a doubt, anyone with interest would be able to after a few attempts doing it themselves. Just as you understand the basic general rule of thumb for watercoling then its just another skill you acquire to building a computer.
