In my introduction I already explained that what ECS did is doing lately is pretty impressive, especially for an original OEM manufacturer it's nice to see something else than a 100% reference based product. This includes the clock-frequencies.

Though we think the Hydra is being released in very small volume for marketing purposes. So get them while you can as there won't be many available. In short, Hydra is a dual 9800 GTX+ kit with included and pre-fitted water-cooling system as provided by Thermaltake. We'll take an in-depth look at all the ins and outs in our photo-shoot.

The cards themselves are 100% reference based, though have a nicely colored black PCB and obviously the water-cooling blocks.

At first glance you'll get a little scared though as the box of contents is just massive. You open it up and spot the water-cooling unit, the two cards and pretty much everything nicely bundled to get started. We even spot a full game, Rainbow Six Vegas 2, nice !

So included in the box you'll find:

• ECS GeForce 9800 GTX+ 512MB (x2) + waterblock
• Thermaltake Bigwater760 IS
• Tubing
• Clamps
• Driver CD
• Rainbow Six - Vegas 2 (full game)
• HDTV block (3-way RCA component)
• 6-pin to Molex power cable (x4)
• manual / quick install guide
• VGA->DVI dongle  (x2)
• DVI-> HDMI dingle (x2)
• SPDIF cable (x2)
• flexible SLI bridge
• Bottle of UV reflective coolant

There's really nothing in there that I miss. You will receive everything to get connected. And although missing in the photo, even a flexible SLI connector.

Anyway, let's walk through the product photo-shoot and installation so get a more complete idea.