Introduction

We would like to thank be quiet! for supplying the review sample.



Almost three years have passed since the last time we reviewed a Straight Power unit, and two newer generations have been released since. Currently, the series is in its tenth generation. It includes four non-modular members with capacities ranging from 400 W to 700 W and four modular units with 500–800 W capacities. In this review, we take a detailed look at the strongest modular unit with model number E-10-CM-800W. The CM abbreviation in its model number stands for cable management.

be quiet! says the E-10-CM-800W and all members of the line to operate very silently since they come equipped with a high-quality 135 mm SilentWings fan. This fan features airflow-optimized blades and a 6-pole motor for less vibrations, along with a Fluid Dynamic Bearing. The unit is 80 Plus Gold certified, and its high efficiency allowed for a more relaxed fan profile. Taking a look at the unit's specifications, it doesn't feature a semi-passive operation, which isn't necessary since its SilentWings fan operates at incredibly low speeds for as little noise as possible. Every cable except for the main ATX cable is also modular, which will help with its installation. be quiet!, contrary to the popular fully modular cabling designs, insists on keeping some cables affixed. However, doing so doesn't look strange in this particular case given the 24-pin ATX connector will always be put to use, though many users would probably prefer installing all PSU cables separately to avoid any problems while routing and managing cables. That said, we don't believe a single native cable will increase cable-management and routing difficulty noticeably. Users who use sleeved cables would obviously prefer modular cables. While most of today's PSUs are single +12V rail units, the E-10-CM-800W has four of these because Germans are incredibly sensitive to noise and safety matters, which had be quiet! consider both of the above-mentioned factors while designing the unit.