I bought the cycleops fluid 2 (first gen w/knob) based off of how quiet everybody says it is. I think people exaggerate the relative quietness of trainers. This one might be "quiet" in comparison to some other type of trainer that sounds like a bullhorn, but it is does not meet the definition of quiet by a long shot. The first time I got on it sounded like a freight train was approaching. Pads and towels under the thing helped a little bit (hardwood floors). I think that's just the way it is.

In short: Trainers are stupid and I hate them and I hate you and so do trainers.