my 2 bikes with 1/8" chains seem to be just as noisy. my new bike with 3/32" chain is much, MUCH quieter - it is a new chain & cog, don't know if it will get noisier.

all 3 have some amount of varying chain tension. i've had cheaper chainrings in the past that were offcenter by alot, got better when i replace the chainring.