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.
Max Fans – 100% Pump Speed
At the highest fan levels, the Cooler Master MASTERLIQUID 360 ATMOS made a significant contribution to the overall room noise, but in a more wind-rushing and non-droning type of way. Subjectively, the CORELIQUID E360 made its presence known more (and, well, apparently quantitatively as well).
1500 RPM Fans – 100% Pump Speed
Dropping down to 1500 RPM, the Cooler Master MASTERLIQUID 360 ATMOS basically fades to being near inaudible, much like the PL360 FLUX. The CORELIQUID E360 got a lot quieter, but since it only lost 300 RPM from its overall speed, it was still a decent contributor to room noise.
1000 RPM Fans – 100% Pump Speed
Dropping down to 1000 RPM, all three units are essentially inaudible as the 1.3 dB(A) difference at this point is academic rather than practical.
600 RPM Fans – 100% Pump Speed
At the lowest fan setting, we again find an exercise in academic differences in dB(A) levels for fans that we can’t really hear.