Tech News
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Gigabyte X870E AORUS PRO X3D ICE Motherboard @ Funky Kit
Published: Thursday, February 26, 2026 | By: DennisAMD is pretty hot right now in the gamer space and the recent refresh of the Aorus X870E motherboard line is a strong indicator of that demand. I was able to check out these boards during CES and they looked pretty good, though were extremely overshadowed when compared to the Tron Lightcycle of a GPU they had next to it.

If you're planning to build a high-end, enthusiast-grade PC with AMD's latest Ryzen 9000 series X3D processors, then the Gigabyte X870E AORUS PRO X3D ICE motherboard has it all. It excels in both features and performance with great aesthetics.
As they say ICE is nice when it comes to "white out" computer parts. Personally, I feel the white PC builds are more of an expression of the builder attempting to put something unique together when the PC world is attempting to exclude modders from the industry.
Its like white wall tires, They say "look at me, here I am, love me."
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Creative Zen Hybrid SXFI Headset Review @ Madshrimps
Published: Thursday, February 26, 2026 | By: DennisFor those of you living under a rock, the Creative SFXI is one of the most amazing advances in sound processing since the introduction of Dolby. That is a pretty bold claim coming from an audiophile and I will die on the same hill as the proper way to pronounce the "graphics interchange format" file extension.
Madshrimps has a review up of the Creative Zen Hybrid headphones with SFXI onboard. For a headphone these are not bad but, they aren't for everyone, depending on your head shape demands.

Zen Hybrid SXFI is a compact and cost-effective headset with both Bluetooth and analog connectivity options, featuring SXFI technology which can be accessed from any applications without limitations. The ANC capabilities help with sound isolation while commuting and can be used for up to 40 hours when ANC is in-use. Thanks to the plastic construction, the headset remains light, so the comfort aspect is not affected when wearing the product for a long time and is also equipped with a Low Latency mode for gaming purposes on smartphones and tablets.
Be sure to check out our review of the Creative SFXI Gamer Headphones, very similar design with a microphone.
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DLSS 4.5 Shatters Expectations: New AI Upscaling Tech Redefines Visual Fidelity in Gaming
Published: Monday, February 23, 2026 | By: DennisGamers have long sought the holy grail of PC gaming: maximum visual quality *without* sacrificing performance. For years, compromises were inevitable – dialing down settings for smoother frame rates, or accepting a blurry image when pushing resolution limits. But a recent blind test conducted by the ComputerBase community suggests a significant leap forward has been made, with Nvidia’s DLSS 4.5 emerging as the clear winner in delivering stunning visuals and maintaining high frame rates. The results, gathered from thousands of participants across six demanding titles, paint a compelling picture: AI-powered upscaling is no longer a compromise, but a genuine enhancement.

ComputerBase recommends already since the release of DLSS 4 as well as FSR Upscaling AI (if FSR 4 on RX 9000) actually every game completely independent of the performance with the Upsampling technologies of Nvidia and AMD. Because the image quality is equal or better (image stability, details etc.) with a simultaneously noticeable higher framerate. But what does the ComputerBase community find most beautiful?
The blind test methodology is particularly noteworthy. Participants were presented with side-by-side comparisons of native resolution with traditional anti-aliasing (TAA), DLSS 4.5, and AMD’s FSR in Quality mode – without knowing which technology they were viewing. This eliminated brand bias and allowed for a truly objective assessment of visual quality. Across the board, DLSS 4.5 consistently garnered the most votes as the preferred image, often by a substantial margin. While native resolution held its own, particularly in *Cyberpunk 2077*, it frequently fell short of DLSS 4.5’s clarity and detail in other titles like *Anno 117*, *Horizon Forbidden West*, and *Satisfactory*.
What sets DLSS 4.5 apart? The technology leverages advanced AI algorithms to reconstruct images at higher resolutions, effectively filling in the gaps created by rendering at a lower internal resolution. This results in a sharper, more detailed image than traditional upscaling methods, and often rivals or even surpasses the clarity of native rendering. The community feedback suggests that DLSS 4.5 excels in maintaining image stability and reducing artifacts, leading to a more immersive and visually pleasing gaming experience. While AMD’s FSR continues to be a viable option, the results clearly indicate that Nvidia currently holds the lead in AI-powered upscaling technology.
However, the results aren’t entirely one-sided. A significant portion of participants in *Cyberpunk 2077* found it difficult to discern a difference between DLSS 4.5 and native rendering, highlighting the game’s already impressive visual fidelity. Furthermore, approximately 13% of participants across all titles reported being unable to identify any noticeable difference between the three options. This underscores the subjective nature of visual perception and the importance of individual preferences. Nevertheless, the overwhelming trend is clear: DLSS 4.5 is rapidly becoming the go-to solution for gamers seeking the best possible visual experience without compromising performance.
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Marantz Redefines Home Theater with New Line of Luxury Separates
Published: Sunday, February 22, 2026 | By: DennisFor decades, Marantz has been synonymous with high-fidelity audio, and now the brand is turning its expertise towards a new era of home theater design. Moving away from the monolithic “equipment rack” aesthetic, Marantz is launching a series of A/V separates designed to deliver uncompromising performance within a more refined and contemporary framework. This isn’t simply about shrinking the hardware; it’s a fundamental shift in philosophy, prioritizing sound quality, elegant design, and long-term relevance for the modern home. The new lineup promises to appeal to audiophiles and cinephiles alike, offering a scalable system that can adapt to a variety of spaces and needs.

Marantz is redefining what reference level home theater looks and sounds like for today’s listener. The focus is no longer on excess hardware or visual dominance, but on delivering uncompromising performance, meticulous tuning, and premium build quality within a refined, contemporary industrial design that complements modern living spaces. It is theater-grade sound, executed with intention and restraint.
The core of the new system revolves around three tiers of preamp/processors – the AV10, AV20, and AV30 – paired with corresponding multi-channel amplifiers: the AMP10, AMP20, and AMP30. This mix-and-match approach allows users to tailor their setup to their specific requirements, supporting immersive audio layouts up to 9.4.6 Dolby Atmos. Whether upgrading an existing system or building a new one from the ground up, the tiered structure provides flexibility without compromising on the consistent visual elegance and sonic signature Marantz is known for. The amplifiers, offering between 6 and 16 channels, can also be used to augment existing Marantz Cinema Series AVRs, adding power where it’s most needed.
Crucially, all components are engineered and manufactured at Marantz’s Shirakawa Audio Works facility in Japan, and each product undergoes rigorous certification by a Marantz Sound Master, currently Yoshinori Ogata. This dedication to quality control ensures tuning accuracy, consistency, and overall performance integrity. This commitment to precision builds upon a legacy that began with the iconic Marantz Model 9 from 1960, incorporating design elements like the signature porthole – originally a functional window for VU meters, now a symbolic aperture into the heart of the component.
Beyond the technical specifications, Marantz is emphasizing the aesthetic integration of these separates into modern living spaces. Materials, finishes, and controls are designed to be inviting and refined, rather than clinical and imposing. The new lineup also boasts extensive connectivity, including support for the latest HDR formats, streaming services like Amazon Music, TIDAL, and Qobuz, and integration with multi-room audio systems via HEOS. With pricing starting at $4,000 for the AV30 and AMP30 pairing, Marantz is aiming to deliver a premium home theater experience that is both sonically superior and visually harmonious.
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Corsair Frames a New Era of PC Building with Limited-Edition Nova and Galaxy Cases
Published: Thursday, February 19, 2026 | By: DennisCorsair has unveiled a pair of limited-edition cases poised to redefine the PC building experience: the Nova and Galaxy. Built upon the foundation of the acclaimed FRAME 4000D, these cases aren't just enclosures for your components; they're meticulously crafted showcases designed to highlight your build with a mesmerizing visual flair. The defining characteristic of these new models is their innovative color-shift paint finish, which dynamically transforms with the angle of light, creating a captivating and ever-changing aesthetic. Whether you're aiming for a sleek, understated look or a bold, attention-grabbing centerpiece for your gaming setup, the Nova and Galaxy offer a unique blend of style and substance.

The Nova and Galaxy models retain the core strengths of the FRAME 4000D, including the versatile InfiniRail fan mounting system that allows for exceptional cooling customization. Corsair has further enhanced the design with a compact PSU shroud, maximizing airflow and creating a cleaner internal appearance. A full tempered-glass side panel provides an unobstructed view of your components, while an upgraded front I/O panel offers enhanced connectivity. This panel now features three USB Type-C connectors – one supporting a rapid 20 Gbps data transfer rate – alongside a standard 3.5mm audio jack and an ARGB power button. The tactile feedback of the MX-Style mechanical power button switch adds a premium touch to the user experience, and each case is distinguished by an individually numbered aluminum badge.
The FRAME 4000D Vault Series Nova and Galaxy models introduce color-shift paint finishes that change tone as light moves across the surface, creating a refined and subtle look that shifts with viewing angle and ambient lighting. Nova shifts from blue through teal to purple highlights, while Galaxy transitions from pink through green to gray, giving each case a distinct visual identity.
This attention to detail extends to the internal design, which prioritizes both aesthetics and performance. The cases are engineered to support dual 360mm radiator configurations and accommodate up to 13x 120mm fans, ensuring optimal cooling even under demanding workloads. An included GPU Anti-sag Stabilization Arm provides crucial support for modern graphics cards, preventing sagging and maintaining proper alignment.
Beyond raw power, the Nova and Galaxy cases emphasize ease of use and customization. The FRAME Modular Case System allows for effortless component swapping, panel upgrades, and personalized configurations to suit individual needs. Internal cable management is simplified with versatile drive trays and integrated cable hooks, resulting in a clean and organized build. Storage options include support for one 3.5" hard drive or up to two 2.5" SSDs, providing ample space for games and media. Furthermore, the cases are designed for seamless integration with Corsair’s iCUE LINK ecosystem, featuring dedicated mounting pockets and cable management solutions.
The limited-edition FRAME 4000D Vault Series Nova and Galaxy cases represent a significant step forward in PC case design. Combining striking aesthetics, robust cooling capabilities, and a focus on user customization, these cases offer a premium experience for enthusiasts and builders alike. Available now without fans, allowing for personalized cooling setups, and backed by a two-year warranty and Corsair’s comprehensive customer support, the Nova and Galaxy are a compelling choice for those seeking to elevate their PC builds to the next level.
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SilverStone FLP02 Computer Case Review @ APH Networks
Published: Monday, February 16, 2026 | By: EddieAPH Networks views the SilverStone FLP02 as a compact mid-tower that strikes a strong balance between modern styling and practical functionality. Its standout visual element is the front-facing panel that blends sleek lines with mesh ventilation, giving the case a contemporary look without overdoing the aesthetics. Internally, the layout is well thought out with support for ATX, micro-ATX and Mini-ITX motherboards, and the case offers versatile cooling options including space for multiple fans and up to 360 mm radiators, which makes it suitable for both air-cooled and liquid-cooled builds. Cable management is made easier by generous routing space and tie-down points, while tempered glass side panels showcase the internal components effectively for builders who like to display their systems.

The SilverStone FLP02 computer case is a faithful replication of the beige boxes from eras past, now modernized with appreciated additions.
In practical use, the FLP02 is comfortable to build in and performs reliably in a variety of setups. Installation of drives, cooling hardware and expansion cards proceeds smoothly thanks to thoughtful tool-less features and well-placed mounting points. Airflow potential is good, and the case’s ventilation design helps keep temperatures in check, although the review notes that it does not include pre-installed fans, so users will need to budget for those separately. The overall impression from APH Networks is that the SilverStone FLP02 delivers solid build quality, strong flexibility and competitive features for its class, making it a worthy consideration for builders who want a stylish yet functional mid-tower without breaking the bank. -
Thermal Grizzly releases dedicated software and first firmware update for WireView Pro II
Published: Sunday, February 15, 2026 | By: EddieThermal Grizzly is pleased to announce the official launch of the first public software suite for the GPU power monitoring tool WireView Pro II, as well as the release of the first official firmware update. Both the software and the firmware update are optional. However, when used together, they enable full functionality of the WireView Pro II, including data logging and device configuration via PC.

Software 1.0.5.
Main Features of the Software:
- Full Operating System Integration: Access and management of all supported functions of the WireView Pro II directly through the software, including per-pin current distribution limits.
- Advanced Configuration Options: Additional settings and more precise adjustment of values compared to the capabilities of the device firmware alone.
- Data Logging and Export: Recording and exporting of power and temperature data for long-term analysis, ideal for evaluating graphics card power consumption and current distribution via the 12V-2x6 connector.
The software is currently available for Windows operating systems; integration for Linux is currently under development and is planned for release in a future update. Use of the software is entirely optional. The WireView Pro II continues to operate independently, with all essential measurement values and functions displayed and managed via the integrated screen.
During operation, the software does not need to be running, as all functions are controlled on the hardware side by the WireView Pro II. The software only needs to be launched if the start screen on the WireView Pro II is to be changed. Before using a new software version, all previousldownloaded versions should be deleted. After downloading, the compressed folder must be extracted in order to launch the software via the WireView2 application. The software is executed only and is not installed.
The first official software and firmware version was released following the completion of a beta testing phase, during which several initial issues were resolved. Should users nevertheless encounter any problems, we kindly ask them to contact us via our official Discord server, our subreddit page, or the support form on our website. To stay informed about new software updates, we recommend subscribing to the newsletter.
Firmware-Update
In parallel with the software launch, Thermal Grizzly is also releasing the first firmware update for the WireView Pro II. The firmware update is included in the software package and is transferred to the device via USB. For installation, the user must start the software and flash the firmware onto the device; afterwards, the software can be closed and removed, as it is no longer required. This update is optional; choosing not to install it does not affect the product warranty. However, to ensure smooth operation with the new software, Thermal Grizzly expressly recommends updating the device before using the software.
Main Improvements of the Firmware (v03):
- Enables full software control of the WireView Pro II, which was not possible with the originally preinstalled firmware.
- Optimized averaging calculation for more stable measurement values and reduced fluctuations
- Adjustment of the trigger thresholds for the current imbalance alarm from 30% at ≥ 5 A to 40% at ≥ 6 A per pin. The trigger compares the minimum and maximum pin current and is only activated if a pin exceeds 6 A and the relative difference between the pin currents is greater than 40%. This reduces premature warning messages caused by minor load fluctuations.
When flashing the firmware onto the WireView Pro II, all settings will be reset.
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Alphacool Core Distro Plates V.2
Published: Saturday, February 14, 2026 | By: EddieAlphacool International GmbH from Braunschweig is a pioneer in PC water-cooling technology. With one of the most comprehensive product portfolios in the industry and over 20 years of experience, Alphacool is now expanding its portfolio with the Core Distro Plates V.2.

The Core Distro Plate V.2 is the ideal solution for custom water-cooling systems, featuring a revised design that provides greater installation flexibility and simplifies the planning, setup, and maintenance of even complex cooling loops. Chrome-plated brass G1/4" fittings, directly embedded into the acrylic, ensure maximum leak protection and a premium appearance. The reduced depth, optimized port arrangement, and integrated drain port enable short, clean tubing runs and convenient system draining.
Manufactured from high-quality acrylic glass, the distro plate provides a clear view of the coolant, while the digital aRGB lighting creates vibrant illumination effects. Thanks to the revised pump mounting system, VPP/D5 or DDC pumps can be installed. The included VPP Apex pump features a ceramic shaft and optimized motor design for quiet, low-vibration, and efficient operation, controlled via PWM. The package is completed by the Core Push Mounting Kit for easy and secure installation.
- Features
The ideal solution for custom water-cooling systems - Revised pump mounting system, for VPP/D5 or DDC pump installation
- Reduced depth and optimized arrangement of the G1/4" ports
- High-grade acrylic glass brought to life by vibrant aRGB illumination
The Core Distro Plate V.2 is available in 240 mm or 360 mm versions, each with left or right pump positioning. - Features
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Level Up Your Wine: Best Under 50 Bottle Wine Coolers on Amazon
Published: Friday, February 13, 2026 | By: EddieOnce you get past a few “special occasion” bottles, a normal fridge stops making sense for wine. It runs too cold, the humidity is off, and your best Cabernet ends up wedged between leftover takeout and a can of energy drink that doesn’t do the aroma any favors. If you are a gamer or content creator, it feels even worse considering the care and dedication you put towards your setup why not do the same to your special drinks? It also gives you something to look forward to after a long editing session or a ranked grind. A wine chiller provides you with a stable, adjustable range in the 40 to 60-degree Fahrenheit zone, better humidity, UV-protected glass, and shelves that actually understand bottles rather than treating them like soda cans.
From a tech editor who lives around PCs and consoles, the real sweet spot is a compressor-based wine cooler supporting under 50 bottles with wood shelves. Compressor systems handle gaming rooms and studio spaces much better than thermoelectric units, because they do not freak out when the ambient temperature climbs after the PC and lights have been on all day. Wood racks help control vibration, protect labels, and make the interior look more like a scaled-down cellar than a beverage fridge bolted to your battle station. In this lineup, the focus is on four units that fit that reality: compressor coolers in the 33 to 46 bottle range, with proper wood shelving and dimensions that make sense for apartments, home offices, and gaming dens where floor space is shared with gear, not just furniture.
The 4 best compressor wine coolers supporting less than 50 bottles
1) Phiestina 33 Bottle Dual Zone Wine Cooler – Best slim starter cellar
Why this pickIf you are moving up from “bottles in the kitchen fridge” to your first real wine cabinet, the 16 inch Phiestina 33 bottle dual zone is a very friendly starting point. It uses a compressor cooling system with a wide 40 to 66 degree Fahrenheit range split across two zones, so you can park whites and rosé in the cooler upper zone and keep reds a little warmer in the lower zone.
Inside you get seven removable wooden shelves made from FSC certified wood, which is a big upgrade in both look and feel compared to wire racks. The slim footprint is roughly 15.5 inches wide and under 34 inches tall, so it fits into tight spaces in dining rooms or condos while still holding a genuine 33 bottle collection. An automatic defrost system and fan based air circulation help keep temperatures even across the cabinet instead of hot and cold pockets.
Key specs and features
- Capacity: up to 33 standard 750 ml bottles on 7 wooden shelves
- Cooling: compressor based with auto defrost and internal fan circulation
- Temperature: dual zone, upper roughly 40 to 50°F, lower roughly 50 to 66°F
- Design: freestanding 16 inch wide cabinet with glass door and blue LED lighting
Best for:
Wine drinkers who are starting to build a collection and want a slim, dual zone cabinet with real wood racks and a proper compressor, without jumping straight into a large built in unit.
2) ORYMUSE 24 Inch 46 Bottle Dual Zone Wine Cooler – Best all round 46 bottle pick
Why this pickIf you are ready for something that feels like a small home cellar, the ORYMUSE 24 inch dual zone 46 bottle wine cooler hits a very nice balance. It uses an upgraded compressor system with front venting, so you can run it freestanding or slide it into a standard 24 inch under counter opening for a built in look. Inside, six adjustable beech wood shelves glide smoothly and are shaped to cradle up to 46 standard Bordeaux bottles, with soft blue LED lighting that makes the collection look like a proper feature rather than an afterthought.
The cabinet is split into upper and lower zones. The upper can be set cooler for whites and sparkling, while the lower runs slightly warmer for reds, with typical ranges from about 40 to mid 60s Fahrenheit depending on how you configure it. Digital controls and a front display let you set temperatures precisely. The stainless frame and glass door keep the look modern enough for a kitchen or bar area without clashing with other appliances.
Key specs and features
- Capacity: up to 46 standard Bordeaux bottles on 6 beech wood shelves
- Cooling: upgraded compressor with air circulation and auto defrost
- Temperature: dual zone, typical range about 40 to 65°F split between upper and lower zones
- Installation: 24 inch built in or freestanding with front venting and adjustable feet
- Extras: blue LED interior light, stainless and glass door, digital touch panel
Best for:
Readers who want an all in one 46 bottle cabinet that can live under a counter or as a freestanding piece, with beech wood shelves and dual zones that handle a mixed red and white collection.
3) NewAir 24 Inch 46 Bottle Dual Zone Wine Fridge – Best under counter “mini cellar”
Why this pick
The NewAir 24 inch dual zone 46 bottle wine fridge is what you buy when you want your kitchen or bar to look like it came straight out of a design magazine. It is a true built in capable unit with a quiet, front venting compressor and recessed kickplate, sized to slide between standard base cabinets so it looks like part of the kitchen rather than a random add on.
Inside, NewAir uses smooth gliding beech wood shelves on rails that make it easy to pull bottles out without scraping labels. The fridge is split into an upper and lower zone, with typical ranges of 40 to 55°F for whites and 50 to 66°F for reds, controlled by digital thermostats. Triple paned UV protected glass, a locking door, and a carbon air filter round out the “mini cellar” feature set. For a compact cabinet, it does a convincing impression of a scaled down professional installation.
Key specs and features
- Capacity: up to 46 bottles on beech wood shelves
- Cooling: front venting compressor with quiet operation and low vibration
- Temperature: dual zone, upper roughly 40 to 55°F, lower roughly 50 to 66°F
- Installation: 24 inch built in or freestanding, recessed kickplate, compact depth
- Extras: triple pane UV glass door, carbon filter, locking door, blue LED lighting
Best for:
Homeowners and serious enthusiasts who want a true under counter wine fridge that looks upscale and behaves like a small cellar, with dual zones and quality touches like beech wood shelving and UV protection.
4) BODEGA 24 Inch 46 Bottle Dual Zone Wine Cooler – Best feature packed 46 bottle option
Why this pickThe BODEGA 24 inch 46 bottle dual zone is the feature heavy choice for readers who want a lot of control for the money. It uses an advanced compressor that the brand highlights for fast, stable cooling and accurate humidity, with a vibration absorption system and four adjustable feet to keep things quiet and level. A dual pane tempered glass door with a stainless frame helps hold temperature and cuts down on fogging.
Inside, you get wood shelves that can be pulled and rearranged for different bottle shapes, plus soft blue LED lighting for a cleaner display. The cabinet runs as either a built in under counter unit or a freestanding fridge, and covers a temperature range of about 41 to 68°F split across two zones, so you can store reds and whites at appropriate set points. A temperature memory function restores settings after a power loss, and a carbon purification system helps keep the interior from developing stale odors over time.
Key specs and features
- Capacity: 46 bottles on wood shelves, suitable for standard 750 ml bottles
- Cooling: advanced compressor with fan circulation, auto defrost, and low vibration
- Temperature: dual zone adjustable in roughly the 41 to 68°F range
- Installation: 24 inch under counter or freestanding, front venting design
- Extras: temperature memory after power loss, carbon filter, soft blue LED lighting, double pane glass
Best for:
Enthusiasts who want a high feature 46 bottle cabinet that can live under a counter or in a bar area, with dual zones, wood shelves, and a few premium touches without going into custom cellar pricing.
Quick buying tipsBe honest about capacity. If you are sitting at eight to ten bottles today, a 33 bottle unit like the Phiestina will feel roomy at first but can fill surprisingly fast once you start buying in pairs or by the case. If you already keep a couple of cases around, jumping straight to a 46 bottle cabinet from ORYMUSE, NewAir, or BODEGA reduces the chances of “I should have gone bigger” by the end of the year.
Decide how much dual zone you really need. All four of these are dual zone units. That matters most if you regularly keep whites, rosé, or sparkling on hand and want them colder than your reds. If your collection skews heavily red, you can still set both zones to similar temperatures, but the flexibility is nice insurance if your tastes change or your collection grows more diverse.
Think about installation and noise. Under counter installations require front venting and the right width. ORYMUSE, NewAir, and BODEGA are all 24 inch class units designed for built in or freestanding use, while the Phiestina is a freestanding 16 inch wide cabinet that is better suited to corners and open spaces. All four use compressors tuned for low vibration and relatively quiet operation, but if the fridge will sit next to a dining table or open living room, those noise and vibration claims are worth paying attention to.
Final thoughtsCompressor wine coolers in the 33 to 46 bottle range sit in a nice middle ground. They are big enough to treat wine as a proper collection, not just a couple of “someday” bottles, but still compact enough to fit into real kitchens, dining rooms, and apartments. Wood shelves and stable temperature bands give you a small version of what a proper cellar would do: keep bottles in the dark, at a steady climate, with minimal vibration and a layout that lets you actually see what you own.
In this lineup, Phiestina’s 33 bottle dual zone is the slim starter cabinet that finally gets wine out of the main fridge and into its own environment. ORYMUSE’s 46 bottle dual zone is the well balanced all rounder for people who want a real collection under the counter or as a centerpiece in a bar area. NewAir’s 24 inch 46 bottle fridge leans into the built in, design forward look with beech wood shelves, UV protected glass, and a recessed kickplate that makes it blend into cabinetry. BODEGA’s 46 bottle model rounds out the list for readers who want a feature packed under counter or freestanding unit with dual zones, wood racks, and extras like temperature memory and carbon filtration.
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MSI GeForce RTX 5090 Lightning Z Review Roundup
Published: Thursday, February 12, 2026 | By: DennisAt CES 2026 MSI introduced the return of the Lightning Z. The Lightning series is highly coveted in the overclocking community for offering reliable performance due to the overbuilt PCBs and options to unlock the VRM. This was a feature exclusive to LN2 overclocking and would void the warranty but, was hella fun. In factory form, the series catered to the hardware enthusiast for offering a healthy factory overclock and overbuilt heatsink to ensure that the best performance could be enjoyed in every environment from single card clocking to massive 4-way SLI gaming setups.

When Nvidia started to crack down on warranty claims it forced companies to cut back on exposed features. This would limit power delivery but would also augment the factory Boost feature for better performance and, once again limiting overclocking. A few years later Nvidia would remove SLI and the global GPU shortage would effectively remove overclocking friendly video cards from the market overnight.
This is one reason why the new RTX 5090 Lightning Z release is such a surprise. Not only does it revive a well-known brand but becomes a litmus to see if the enthusiast PC market can sustain high-end graphics cards again. I will admit, this design mirrors the luxury demands for computer hardware in China and will likely be a one off considering the excessive price and lack of real value to a normal gamer.
Web Reviews
MSI GeForce RTX 5090 Lightning Z review @ Guru3D
MSI GeForce RTX 5090 Lightning Z Review - Up to 1000 W @ TechPowerUp

