Sound Level Testing
While we were testing cooling capabilities, as outlined in our introduction article, we were also tracking the sound level of each of the coolers using a Risepro SPL meter attached to a boom arm pointed directly at the fans of the radiator at a distance of 12 inches. We recorded the dB(A) level for each fan and pump speed tested. The ambient room sound level measured 33 decibels. Displayed below are the results of our Stock Clock Testing.
Max Fans – 100% Pump Speed
At maximum fan levels, the MSI MEG CORELIQUID S360 takes a decisive victory at 44.1 dB(A). This beats the SilverStone IceGem 280 as the prior record-holder as well as every other AIO unit we have reviewed here at TheFPSReview. From a subjective perspective, we agree with the SPL meter’s conclusion and were surprised how quiet this cooler was at full bore fan speeds.
1500 RPM Fans – 100% Pump Speed
Bumping the fans down to 1500 RPM keeps the MSI MEG CORELIQUID S360 in the lead, but other coolers are starting to close the gap. From a subjective perspective, this is about where the MSI MEG CORELIQUID S360 felt like it was starting to become one with the ambient noise and we can’t say that for any of the other contestants at 1500 RPM.
1000 RPM Fans – 100% Pump Speed
At 1000 RPM, the MSI MEG CORELIQUID S360 maintains its lead by the hair of its chinny chin chin. The rest of the field is now approaching it quietly to the point where there’s not a material difference in noise output.
600 RPM Fans – 100% Pump Speed
At 600 RPM, the MSI MEG CORELIQUID S360 tied for first at 35.8 dB(A) with the SilverStone IceGem 280. However, at this speed, the subjective differences in noise between each of the contestants are purely academic to the point where the SPL meter could be a random number generator and we wouldn’t know the difference.