Hi
Here's some temps when running hi-def footage for over an hour:
Room temp 24.4C
Sys temp = 52C
CPU temp = 45C
HDD temp = 51C
CPU Fan Speed 1371rpm (1081rpm when idle)
As mentioned, the HDD makes the most noise (when accessing data etc).
In a silent room i can hear it clicking from my seating position.(8-9ft away)
The DVD drive when it is at maximum spin, can be heard. But i would imagine most people can judge how loud that will be.
Otherwise i cannot tell it's on, unless i get a few feet away.
If it helps any, my XBOX 360 sounds like a helicopter taking off and is still very audible even when in dashboard. (I has now been moved to the cinema room)
Aopen have managed to design a PC that is both quiet and powerful. Microsoft should be ashamed.
The only trouble is that what i find whisper quiet, somebody else might think annoying.
Some people want total silence, and view any noise unacceptable.
Positioning will also play a part, because it has vent holes in diffferent places.
Before i carry on with my findings, here a few more pics to give some idea of size.
A bit closer!
Picture with the control flap down