CONCLUSION

   As you can all see unlike when we reviewed the Macho Zero this time over we tested the Le Grand Macho with and without the 140mm fan duct so you can all have a better idea of what to expect in both cases (the Macho Zero was tested with the Fun Duct). Obviously judging by our charts using the fan duct improves heat dissipation quite a bit so I think it’s very crucial to get one if you intent to use the Le Grand Macho passively. On the other hand the fan duct costs slightly less than an average 140mm fan and certainly doesn’t perform on par (and there’s also the small drawback we mentioned earlier) so you may want to consider that option too (besides some fans are almost inaudible even at full speed). The size of the Le Grand Macho could be an issue in small HTPC cases so potential buyers with small cases should do their research prior to getting one. As for the installation part well thanks to the long Philips screwdriver the entire procedure takes but just a few minutes to complete just like it did with its predecessor.

   Right now the Le Grand Macho passive CPU cooler by Thermalright retails for USD69.99 inside the USA (Amazon.com) and for 59.99Euros inside the EU (PC-Cooling.de) while the 140mm fan duct retails for USD8.99/4.99Euros. With that in mind if you’re after the best passive cooling performance you will need to spend USD79/65Euros to get both the Le Grand Macho and the 140mm fan duct a price tag which is not really bad considering the end result. Of course if passive cooling is not your thing then a NH-D15 would be a better choice but if you are into passive cooling things can’t get any better than the Le Grand Macho (at least now currently and not for the same price) and that’s why we give it our Platinum Award.

PROS

- Build Quality
- Black Nickel Color
- Excellent Performance
- Passive Cooling (Silent)
- Zero Clearance Issues
- Bundle
- Price (For Some)

CONS

- Size (Overall)
- Fan Ducts Sold Separately