13600k paired with ASUS B760I running at 1.43 volts
13600k paired with ASUS B760I running at 1.43 volts
The main focus is the CPU performance and motherboard compatibility. High voltage readings in Cinebench suggest a possible hardware issue, while repeated RMA attempts indicate the problem might lie with the motherboard.
You completed the extended testing and performed thorough checks to assess any potential decline. Since I lack familiarity with 13th generation processors, I can't provide specific advice, but avoid labeling voltages as "safe" solely because your CPU handled short-term stress without immediate failure.
Intel CPUs lack a SOC voltage and their safe operating voltage ranges differ markedly from AMD. A typical 1.43V Vcore is often observed during Cinebench, though it's not excessively high enough to worry about chip longevity. For extended use, these processors can safely run up to around 1.475V for the VCore, but exceeding approximately 1.4V during heavy core workloads can cause significant issues. It's also important to note the distinction between socket readings and actual silicon voltage—socket measurements tend to be higher than the real die voltage. Therefore, a reading of 1.42V in the socket might actually be closer to about 1.3V inside the chip. If you're particularly concerned, consider undervolting, though I've encountered unusual behavior when attempting this on certain B-series boards, which I'd likely steer clear of.
Look in the BIOS to see if you can select the early microcode version, 0x104. This is a special feature of many Asus B760 boards. The early microcode will allow you to undervolt which can drop full load temps of a 13600K by up to 20C. Intel has introduced a new feature called Undervolt Protection which they have included in the latest BIOS and microcode versions. You need to avoid that.