First time making a custom loop

[Potentia]

Hey guys! As this is my first time making a custom loop, I would like some advice. I haven't bought any of the items yet because I am still planning it out. If you have any personal experience with any of these parts, please tell me your opinions! Also, I already own the case and motherboard.

Case: NZXT Phantom 820

Motherboard: ASUS Maximus V Formula

Pump: Swiftech MCP35X

Res: Bitspower Z-Multi 250*

Rad: Alphacool NexXxoS UT60 3x120mm

Fans: Corsair SP120 Quiet Edition

CPU Block: Koolance CPU-380 (Intel)

Fittings: I plan to use all Bitspower fittings, 3/8 ID + 1/2 OD

Tubing: Open to suggestion!

Coolant: EK Ekoolant - Blood Red

And on to my questions. Regarding the reservoir, I have read mixed reviews on it. Due to that, I am open to suggestions for a res too. Also, I have a single MSi GTX 680 Lightning. Would it be worth adding that to the loop? If so, would any GTX 680 waterblock fit it, or would I be stuck with EK's specially made waterblock for it?

[Ghost]

A reservoir is a tank of water. It is there purely for looks.

The mobo will be in the loop I assume? If so I recommend hose clamps for it.

Also I advise Noctua or Be Quiet Silent Wing 2 fans.

Tubing; go for masterkleer.

You might want a bigger rad if you want a gpu in your loop too.

For the GPU I recommend doing the research yourself because you will learn more that way for future reference.

What you are looking for in a GPU is the term "Reference PCB". Thats the PCB all cards are based on. By extension most blocks are made for the reference PCB for a certain card. You do get special blocks made for one specific PCB if there is enough demand but as a rule of thumb if you don't have a reference PCB count yourself lucky if you can find a block.

[Whaler_99]

Ghost pretty much summed it up - I would also not go for the Corsair fans. Thier curved frame actually bleads quite a bit of air versus a square frame like Noctua. If adding the GPU, then I would look to also add an additional 240mm rad in your loop.

[Art Vandelay]

A reservoir is a tank of water. It is there purely for looks.

The mobo will be in the loop I assume? If so I recommend hose clamps for it.

Also I advise Noctua or Be Quiet Silent Wing 2 fans.

Tubing; go for masterkleer.

You might want a bigger rad if you want a gpu in your loop too.

For the GPU I recommend doing the research yourself because you will learn more that way for future reference.

What you are looking for in a GPU is the term "Reference PCB". Thats the PCB all cards are based on. By extension most blocks are made for the reference PCB for a certain card. You do get special blocks made for one specific PCB if there is enough demand but as a rule of thumb if you don't have a reference PCB count yourself lucky if you can find a block.

Durelene tubing is also good. Primochill advanced LRT is supposed to have fixed the plasticizer problems.