(2012-04-30 01:04)CpTHOOK Wrote: Hey guys....
Not to diminish my friend Beer40oz build at all, but IMHO, this fan noise issue has been unnecessarily sensationalized hype and the need for exotic aftermarket coolers are not always necessary. A more important focus should be on cost reduction! I mean.......unless your HTPC is always-on or you need to consider space in your case, Y the need for a super-quiet cooler option when you're watching a movie? I saved $40 on my "A6-Pack" build by sticking with the stock cooler. Now, some may disagree with my opinion as it their right to do so, but I will never again make an aftermarket cooler a priority feature unless the build will be placed in an area where noise reduction is paramount...ie., bedroom!
....cheers
+100.....you literally took the words out of my mouth. I built AMD A8-3850 HTPC with the help of these guys. With "Cool N Quiet" option and lower the fan level to 3 in AsRock bios, the stock AMD CPU cooler and stock Silverstone case/psu fans are very silent. It keeps CPU running cool too.
There is no noise whatsoever at the seating area. I placed the sound level meter on top of the HDTV, which is right on top of HTPC and there is zero noise from HTPC.
If you want to save a few dollars, I'm suggesting trying the stock fan with “Cool N Quiet” option and lowering the fan level to 3. You'll be fine.