i5 6600k voltage woes

[hwlr77]

I have my i5 6600k multiplier set to 44x and the vcore set manually to 1.290 with LLC set to 5. Using Prime95 to test, the max vcore is 1.296. Using the blend test the vcore hits 1.312. Any less voltage, or if I change to LLC 4, that 0.016 wiggle room goes away and I get an error.

I can get the same voltage (1.296-1.312) using - 40 offset voltage. - 35 and the max starts flirting with 1.328. - 45 and I lose that 0.016.

So, can I stress test with offset voltage on, or is it only safe to test with manual voltage?

Ive heard tales of the i5 6600k hitting 4.4 and 4.5 at lower or stock voltage. I'm hesitant to increase the voltage, but if it needs that extra 0.016-0.032 is that unreasonable? (I know the max safe voltage would be 1.4 which I don't intend on getting close to).

So far temps haven't been a problem. I've stress tested at 4.5 and the highest temp is 73. But to get to, what seems stable at 4.5 I have to up the voltage to 1.36. Which seemed to high.

I greatly appreciate any insight or advice.

ASUS Z170-E
i5 6600k
MSI GTX 970 4G
Ripjaws DRR4 2800mhz (16 16 16 36 1.2)
Corsair 750 PSU

 

[RaDiKaL_]

Which exact model is your Corsair PSU? The LLC and offset voltage stability depend highly on the quality of your PSU, if you happen to have the old CX series that could explain your situation.

For the OC you're attempting that extra 0.016 is alright, your CPU could simply be from a low yield, however it's not advisable to OC with a low quality PSU so I hope yours is not from the CX series.

 

[hwlr77]

CX-750. Model 75-001447. thought it was of decent quality.

I can replace it soon..

It's the reliability and life span of the CX that's the problem? The OC seems stable, should I go back to stock settings till I get a better PSU?

 

[RaDiKaL_]

Exactly, the CX internal components are made of poor quality items, you'll be better going back to stock settings until getting a better PSU.

With PSUs is a matter of the manufacturer, you cannot go wrong with Seasonic or Superflower (if you go deeper you'll see some XFX, EVGA and OCZ psus are actually made by these two companies so those are good options as well) so take a look at their offerings and see which is best for your budget, aim for at least a 550w model Bronze+ certified.

 

[hwlr77]

Got a EVGA 750 p2 on sale. Hopefully a much better choice?

 

[RaDiKaL_]

Yes, the P2 is made by Superflower so is a great PSU, go for it.

 

[hwlr77]

thanks very much for the advice