Some manufacturers of soundproof rack equipment such as Kell Systems or Acoustirack do quote noise reduction figures but I can't find any specifications for an XRackPro2. Given the evasive nature of the manufacturer's literature (they do everything but state noise reduction figures) and the somewhat somewhat narrower dimensions (61cm vs. 75cm) than the Kell Systems rack I'm inclined to simply dismiss it as probably not very good. However, I need to get it up a stairway that might be too narrow to fit the Kell rack, so the Kell is looking like it's not a goer.
Does anyone have first hand experience of XRackPro racks? The noisest things it will contain are disk arrays – an HP MSA30 and a Xyratex RS1600 (Same OEM as a NetApp DS14 but a different disk layout). It needs to go next to somebody's desk, so it needs to be comfortably quiet, but it's not going into a recording studio.
Alternatively, does anyone have a recommendation for a 18-24U soundproof rack that is no more than 70cm or thereabouts wide?
Best Answer
We have two 12U XRackPro2 racks, one in a lab space one in the vestibule of my office. Both have less gear than what you're talking about (UPS, 1U Server, 12-15 drives, tape library) but I've been happy with their build quality and ability to isolate server noise. Mine are well tolerated by those who share a room with them and while they are much quieter than a regular rack, it's certainly not silent. In my office, the heat output requires leaving the AC on almost all the time, which further increases the noise level. Since you'll have significantly more disks (more heat & noise) your exhaust fans will run more and make more noise trying to vent all that heat.
Seriously though, I'm glad there's no rack next to my desk, especially not a heat spewing SAN cabinet. It's not unbearable, but if you think the noise/heat is tolerable, put the rack next to your desk not someone else's.