SilverStone Strider ST56F 560W
When it comes down to it, SilverStone advertises the Strider ST56F as being a PSU that is quiet and high performing. From our performance section, there is no disputing that the power supply is of utmost quality. In fact, it was only the +3.3V rail that in any of the tests had less power than its theoretical specification. As for both of the +12V rails, they performed marvelous and constantly outputted clean voltages with very little fluctuation. Overall, the ST56F performed incredible when it came to the power, but on the noise side of things it certainly was not the quietest we have ever come across. The 120mm ADDA fan was slightly on the noisy side of things, however, it continued to be quieter than several generic and other poor power supplies we have seen over the years. It is not, however, to say that the ST56F cannot function quietly as the standard fan is attached to the PSU via a 2-pin fan header so it can easily be swapped with something quieter. There are also numerous after-market products for silencing power supplies from the SilverStone PP02 Acoustic Cover to various rubber gaskets. However, the stock 120mm fan did an adequate job at pushing air throughout the system. Other SilverStone features for the ST56F include SSI/EPS 12V compliance, >80% rated efficiency, CrossFire certified, and an overall attractive exterior. On the topic of appearance, the cable sleeving is also welcomed; however, it would have been nice to see all of the various cable strands covered, or to simply turn to a modular design like its ST60F sibling. Even though the SilverStone Technology Strider ST56F (560W) may not be perfect, it is certainly one of the better power supplies we have come across at Phoronix and will go home with recommended honors. This may be the choice for you if you are looking after a high performance power supply and are not bothered by some extra noise, but without some silencing modifications, this would not be logical for a quiet HTPC setup or likewise system.
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