Middle of die is high AF the stock IHS should accommodate this. I doubt the aftermarket IHS you purchased accounted for this. The intel IHS is concave inside to match the convex die. Some cores will also always be warmer than others as some are near warmer parts of the die IMC/FVR/ etc. I suppose removing the left over silicone on the pcb is not an option for you? def helps. It is es might as well lap the die even some 2000 grit for 50-100 strokes should be a benefit.
I think that JPMBoy likes to bench new stuff and buys new stuff, team cup catering to blocking the new stuff is frustrating for him rightfully so. Let them eat cake imo
The cost yes is high but a $3k GPU is worth $2.8k second hand while a handful of cpus and mobos worth scrap metal prices after you pay inflated ebay prices to find it. Just another perspective ?
All boards no accessories Shipping not included pm me for quote, I prefer shipping USPS flat rate. Paypal non CC and crypto accepted
x99 OCF 3.1 $115
x99 OCF 4 Dimm Prototype $190
x99M Killer $70
2x 5870 Lightnings $90