Specifications, Availability and Pricing

There isn't really much to discuss that we haven't covered with all the other 1283 coolers Xigmatek has released up till now. The Balder has the same 8mm diameter heat pipes sandwiched in a base, both made of copper. The pipes carry the heat into 51 Aluminum fins, pressed over the heat pipes. The main differences are fin design, overall shape and the ability to hold two fans, whilst still keeping weight to a slim 700 grams.

Cooling is handled by an 89 CFM fan, just like the one placed with the Dark Knight. The black body and white LED's make this 4-pin connected fan a great choice for the Balder as well. With up to 2200 RPM and 89 CFM, the Balder has its best chance at keeping to respectable temperatures. Due to the new design, Xigmatek loses a bit of fin area and the fan is a good choice to help compensate for the loss.

The Balder will fit any AMD since socket 754 and will fit any Intel from socket LGA775. This in mind, it is a good choice for its universal nature alone. While the cooler is yet to be released, most times when I get my sample it is only a few short weeks and they hit shelves anywhere. I was informed that the suggested retail of the Balder SD1283 is $46.99. Yes, it is a bit more than the basic 1283 series cooler, but the Balder does offer flash and elegance over its older brother. Now to let the testing speak for itself and see if the extra bit of money is worth the price.