Be-Quiet have impressed us in the past with their high quality power supply units. Their DarkPower series have always been a very good choice for power users, enthusiasts and those of us addicted to silence. It would be fair to say that Be-Quiet have not been able to compete in the mid range sector because their power supply units, although very reliable and powerful, tend to cost too much for the “average” user. Be-Quiet have decided to address this situation by releasing the StraightPower series, which retain many of the features of the DarkPower series with extremely competitive pricing.

Press release from the manufacturer:

Glinde, 24 July 2006.
Be quiet! the specialist for high-end and low-noise power supplies is expanding its range by the brand-new STRAIGHT POWER series. It is the logical addition to the current high-end DARK POWER PRO series with smart cable management system and the proven ECASO (Enhanced Cooling After System Off) technology. STRAIGHT POWER is designed for users who are looking for latest technology, excellent quality and reliable performance. As addition STRAIGHT POWER convinces through its extraordinary price-performance ratio. The complete power supplies model series is primarily designed for a quick and cost-effective assembly of private / office PC solutions A total of 8 powerful models, with a power input range of 110 to 240 VAC and 120 mm fan, will be available within the European countries middle of August 2006. Outstanding features for the STRAIGHT POWER series are its optimised circuit board layout for better cooling, three temperature-controlled fans connections and the countersunk fan grill of the 120 mm fan. be quiet! is given it’s debut for power supplies with wide range of input voltages from 110 to 240 VAC. The power suppliers are manufactured in accordance with the ATX12V Version 2.2 and EPS12V Version 2.91 (as of the 550W) by using 12V Dual Rail (350-500W) and 12V Quad Rail (550-700W) technology. Be quiet! Power Supplies will be sold through retail-, E-tail-channel, shops as well as distribution partners all over Europe and are certified with all Nordic certifications (Fimko, Nemko, Demko, Semko).

Manufacturer Power Specifications:

(BQT ES-600W)

AC Input	110-220 VAC 50-60Hz 10-5A
DC Output	3.3V	5V	12V1	12V2	12V3	12V4	-12V	5VSB
Max output	32A	30A	18A	18A	18A	18A	0.5A	3A
			48A
Max combined output	170W		576W				6W	15W
	600W

 

(BQT ES-650W)

AC Input	110-220 VAC 50-60Hz 10-5A
DC Output	3.3V	5V	12V1	12V2	12V3	12V4	-12V	5VSB
Max output	35A	30A	18A	18A	18A	18A	0.5A	3A
			48A
Max combined output	180W		624W				6W	15W
	650W

We received two of the more powerful StraightPower units, although not the most powerful of the series. The most powerful unit is supposedly able to provide 700W worth of continuous power. We received the 600W and 650W units. On paper, there is little difference between the two units, merely a slightly different 3.3V line and better output specifications.

 

We received two of the more powerful StraightPower units, although not the most powerful of the series. The most powerful unit is supposedly able to provide 700W worth of continuous power. We received the 600W and 650W units. On paper, there is little difference between the two units, merely a slightly different 3.3V line and better output specifications.