Reference nvidia 670 noise observations?

[roadie]

I'm thinking of upgrading my graphics card, as my 6850 doesn't really cut it any more. To this end I have my eye on a reference nvidia 670 as a replacement. However I am concerned about the amount and quality of noise it might produce, especially when idle.

The most audible thing in my PC at idle is the rear exhaust 120mm fan at 800rpm and I am wondering whether the reference 670 might overwhelm this in an annoying manner? The Tech Report's views aren't too appealing:

Yeah, well the GTX 670's cooler sounds cheap. That's why the 670 is relatively noisy at idle, even though it has very little power—and thus heat—to dissipate. The GTX 670's blower emits a rough, friction-filled whine. It's not especially loud, and heck, the thing manages not to register too high on decibel meter under load. Tucked inside of a case that insulates sound well, you might barely notice it. Still, this thing isn't Nvidia's best work.

I was wondering whether any of you guys have any alternative views?

Ta

 

[roadie]

Two reasons:

• Great value for money
• It's short enough to fit in my case

Sadly I believe the TF3 card and other non reference cards are too long.

 

[roadie]

I posted some fairly specific requirements and received some help in the thread below.

http://forums.overclockers.co.uk/showthread.php?t=18532310

The thread below on SPCR suggests a MSI 270X may just fit too!

http://www.silentpcreview.com/forums/viewtopic.php?f=19&t=66656

 

[roadie]

Thanks for the heads up mate. Will shoot kitch9 a message.

 

[roadie]

Hmmm, that doesn't sound too good. However, I think the below might fit and should be pretty quiet. It would make the reference 670 a diddy lickle card if installed!

http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=HS-043-AR&groupid=701&catid=2330&subcat=787

 

[roadie]

Fortunately it does on the Arctic site:

http://www.arctic.ac/eu_en/productfinder/gpu/index/?id=139

Can you remember what the EVGA card sounds like at idle?

Thanks!