Noise Levels and Fan Speeds

Testing Procedure

Fan noise testing is done at 25%, 50%, and 100% fan speed, with the dBA level being recorded by a Pyle PSPL25 sound pressure level meter at a distance of 30 cm. The fan(s) RPM results are taken at the same 25%, 50%, and 100% settings. These speeds are handled by MSI's Command Center software, and a Lamptron FC6 fan controller is also used as a secondary method of confirming RPM and dBA readings in case MSI's Command Center cannot control the fan(s), which ensures that proper results can still be obtained if the software fails. To give users the noise profile of the tested CPU cooler, testing is done using fan speed percentages instead of various load levels.

Noise Levels

When it comes to being quiet, Thermalright again proves their worth with the Macho Rev.B as it is a splendid example of quiet cooling. While not the quietest cooler at low fan speeds, it compensates by being extremely quiet at max fan speed. Hitting just 40 dBA, the only cooler I have tested that is quieter is Thermalright's very own Silver Arrow ITX. As such, it's easy to recommend the Macho Rev.B to someone looking for an ultra-quiet cooler.

Fan Speeds

Looking at its RPM readings at 25%, 50%, and 100%, the recorded noise levels make a great deal of sense. The fan sticks close to its specified RPM range of 300-1300, which has noise levels and RPM readings coincide perfectly. Make no mistake: Thermalright's included fan is a top quality offering, which really shows.