From my first post I determined the best two methods to keep my VRM components cool while still using the Noctua L9a were to either add a very slim 120mm fan on top of the 92 mm noctua fan or to just stick a regular sized 120mm fan in the case.

I chose the latter because my local Fry's didn't have a slim 120mm fan.

Once I tried to install the fan I realized that it wouldn't actually fit in any of the mounting holes on the heatsink, and furthermore, I didn't have the necessary screw noctua provided with me, so I just stuck the fan in. As it turns out, the fan is the exact right size. (My cooler is mounted perpendicular to the ground.) Heightwise, it is pushing against the side panel of the case, so it isnt falling out. On the right it is barely pushing against a stick of RAM, and on the right, the 8 pin CPU power pin. On the bottom it is held up by the CPU power cable.

Some commented that the CPU would get hotter. I disagreed. However, I turned out to be wrong. My original testing was done in the afternoon, ambient temps of maybe 23 or 24 C. With the corsair fan, testing was done at maybe 18 or 19 C (at 10 pm).

Here are some temperature data. CPU temperatures did increase a lot( ~10 C), but there were no weird spikes. However, all other temperatures dropped 10 - 20 C compared to an "open test bench" (basically the side panel off). With the case closed up, temperatures were even more improved. I set the fan speed to match previous noise (~37 - 40 dBA). If CPU temperatures are concerning in the future, I can always increase the fan speed (at the expense of loudness).

I plan on making my own side panel for my case, and so with this data, I will alter the design to increase ventilation so that I can bring CPU temperatures down.

I hope my little experiment has been of use to those of you who are looking to reduce VRM temperatures or otherwise tinker with your build.