u/BedroomMaleficent994

I'm running an i9-14900kf so a pretty beefy CPU and have been using a pretty cheap 360mm AiO for 4 years. This AiO is now very much degrading in performance and just not enough anymore.
By now I've come to realize that my current case and fan configuration is also just shit for airflow.

So now I'm wondering, should I go for a decent AiO with 360+mm, or will a good air cooler like a Noctua DH-15 with a decent case deliver better performance at lower prices?

My main concern is: I don't want the CPU to ever have to thermal throttle. I didn't buy this cpu to not use it. After that, the second concern is noise, I would absolutely prefer a rather silent cooling option. I don't care if the CPU sits at 70 or 90°, as long as it's not throttling. I also don't care about looks or RGB at all, I've grown out of that.

So what would you recommend?

Are the Be Quiet! AiOs, Fans and cases worth looking into?

Edit: Thanks for all the recommendations! I think I'll get the Arctic Liquid Freezer III Pro 420mm with a Fractal Design North XL (mesh) case

I'm trying to find a DLC which has subway-like tunnel parts. I've found this post from 3 years ago, which recommended LIRR, Rapid Transit and Bakerloo.
However, 3 years ago is quite outdated, and all of these 3 dlcs have terrible reviews, especially the rapid transit route, so I thought I'll ask again.

For reference, I have the Frankfurt S-Bahn DLC which I quite like, but only one station there is underground, so something like that but extended would be nice. From that DLC I really enjoyed the BR 423 and BR 430 and would prefer a german route with such trains, tho I could imagine trying something else.