The quiestest FAN!

That fan running at full speed is barely noticeable. 17dB(A) at full speed, with the supplied low noise adapter ( 149 Ohm resistor ) <6dB(A)
Just use the cables provided and plug into your PSU.
It is an awesome fan.

I have to throw a shout out to the S-Flex SFF21F. 2nd place at SPCR. 63.7 at 28db is inaudible for most people/places. Just as a comparison, not sure what the price tag is on those Noctuas.

SilenX is also a great fan, I'm using these on a new build. 72CFM @ 14dB iXtrema Pro Fan

the ixtrema push alot of air, but the decibles they claim are what the push, hot air. The noctua have been proven to produce noise to specs. They may not push as much air, but they are quiet and do the job well enough to make you happy.

Yea, the 14dB is at half speed it is like 24dB full speed. Personally I like the Noctuas better, but SilenX is what was requested with the build.

Don't buy SilenX fans if you search the forums you will find many people who only have bad things to say about this company and their fans. You can buy some Noctua or some Scythe S-FLEX fans.

Instead of using the mobo for fan speed control, I would recommend something like the Sunbeam Rheobus or the Zalman MFC1 fan controller. Takes up a 5.25" bay, but makes for easy access and simple control of all the fans in your case. I like the controls on Zalman better and the flip switch for 12V to 5V for two fans. As far as the fans, SilentPCReview ranks them 1) Noctua ($20), 2) SFlex SFF21E($15.99), and the Nexus Real Silent Case Fan($13.99). The SFF21E is the 1200RPM version of the fan the F is the 1600RPM and was not the direct competitor of the Mexus. The Scythe/Nexus were a close call. All three are great options for a balance of quiet operation and good airflow. A little known fact is that the Nexus Real Silent Case Fan is a rebadged Yate Loon D12SL-12. The Yate Loon is a steal at $5 or 4/$15.96- you can replace all of the fans in the case for less than the cost of one Noctua. Stay away from the SilenX - you don't get a lot of value for the money you spend IMHO.

If you read more on Silent PC Review, you'll find that their fan testing method will be changed to reflect PC case application-type air resistance. Their previous testing was done in open air (resistance-free) where the Noctuas really shine.

Before you procure Noctuas, I suggest you read the following:

http://forumz.tomshardware.com/hardware/modules.php?nam...

i'll take the Yate Loons for intake and S-Flex F for exhaust