Reference vs non-reference for watercooling?

[tyler_jrb]

So i recently decided id like to do a full custom loop for my System, I have most of the parts chosen already including a new 900D, X99 Waterblock, 2x 480mm Radiators etc.

However I have already purchased 2x MSI GTX 980Ti Gaming cards. I was wondering EK say they will be bringing out waterblocks for the cards but would it be worth the 2-3month wait.

Does a 6+8pin power vs 8+8pin on the MSI make much difference? Id rather just swap them and get 2 EVGA superclocked reference cards and watercool them over the next couple weeks when i get the chance and spare time to do so. Am i right in thinking EVGA comes with a better warranty and allows watercooling whereas MSI would void the warranty with using a waterblock?

So should i get the reference cards for the next couple weeks and stick with the reference cooler and then upgrade to waterblocks? or wait with the MSI's?

 

[tyler_jrb]

to be honest if your wc just get the cheapest reference board you can find which doesn't care about hsf removal. Or at least ones where they don't put security stickers over the screws

And I wouldn't worry about 6+8 or 8+8, your likley limited by silicon quality and temp before power draw if you plan to oc.

would you reccomend the OCUK version?

 

[tyler_jrb]

Ok thanks everyone , sending the MSI's back will miss them, but to upgrade to the EVGA 980Ti's for peace of mind that I will have good service and can return them if they are faulty and have no problems.