I just bought a new Campbell 5hp, 115v (220v) 26 gal air, cast iron compressor. I was shocked to hear how quiet it ran. The older models are not this quiet. I could actually stand 2 feet from it and talk to someone in a normal voice. I mean to tell you that it is many times quieter than what I am used to. The unit does not appear to have any special mufflers or quiet design features. Am I crazy, or has anyone else experienced this sound reduction with a new compressor?

I have owned other compressors, and still own several styles of electric compressors and I can hardly believe my ears. I recently owned a similar 20 gal model, but it was an oilless model, and sounded like a jackhammer in the garage. Maybe I am just confused between the two, but I can talk normally right next to this new one. Can anyone agree or disagree?

 

Lugnut;

Are you sure the belt didn't fall off?

Considering what technology can do it's about time.
Some of the import wall mounted a/c's are going that way.

 

Yup, newer ones are quiet.

Oilless ones by nature are noise makers. They have to run at higher RPMs to put out the "same" output as their oil lubed conterparts.

 

All of my compressors have been located out side. Even if they were quite enough to bring inside I don’t think I would.

 

Mine is outside as well, along with my soon to be outside shopvac.

 

I have a coleman 30gallon and it's loud as hell=) My buddy has a 26gallon craftsman and the darn thing is so quiet! So that got me to thinking- I'm going to upgrade my motor and buy a new oiled lubed pump.

Is your's a dual stage or single? What's the cfm rating on it?

 

You can get away with this in Texas, if it is kept cool and dry.
The so-called "noise" means diddly to me; I want performance and durability.
The el-cheapo unit I bought from Big Lots 3 years ago yields some performance but nigh zero reliability/durability.
Now I am interested in one from Harbor Freight ( 13 CFM @90 psi, 29 gallon, $325)..