InsaneTek

With the Element series SilverStone set out to create an efficient and quiet power supply. They seem to have hit that on both marks as well a having ROCK STABLE rails. This power supply would be equally at home in a demanding gaming rig or the quietest HTPC. There were a few marks that I think SilverStone could still improve on this power supply. The inclusion of a RPM monitor for the fan would be nice as well as some type of grommet to protect the cabling coming out of the case. Other than that this power supply hits on all cylinders. This is my first time around with a SilverStone power supply as I tended to stick to the companies that have been know to produce quality power supplies like Antec, Enermax, PC Power & Cooling. I can honestly say that SilverStone can be added to that short list.

Pros

• Dual 12V rails
• Cables exit left side for easy routing
• Rock stable rails
• Whisper Quiet
• Good looking
• Enough connectors for the most demanding rig, but not too many for cabling nightmare
• Excellent 80% efficiency rating

Cons

• No RPM monitor for fan
• No grommet to protect cables coming out of the case                                           

We would like to thank the folks at SilverStone for providing us with this product. If you have any questions, comments, constructive criticism even, please hit us up in the forums.

UPDATE:

SilverStone has informed us that they have discovered the 8pin EPS12V to 4pin ATX12V adapter included with the ST50EF-Plus is not suitable for use with the power supply.  Most systems will not be affected, but for systems with a high +12v rail draw, using the incorrect adapter may prevent the power supply from achieving full power. The photo below shows the revised adapter. SilverStone will send a new adapter out to any current ST50EF-Plus user for free by request.