Originally Posted by
Andy_K
If mini-V's don't fix the problem I'd blame the rims. I don't know about squeal, but carbon forks generally have worse problems with brake shudder than steel/aluminum forks, so I don't think that's likely to fix your problem.
I've got a Cross Check. With Tektro CR-720's in front I was able to set it up with the brake powerful enough to make the fork shudder, but I was also able to adjust it so that it worked well and didn't shudder. I've since switched it over to an Avid SD-7 V-brake with Travel Agent in front, which works well without my having to think about the setup. The brakes squeal sometimes in either of these configurations when I get lazy about maintenance, but just the usual V-brake squeal that can easily be eliminated with proper toe-in and/or rim cleaning. It's never been loud for me and never a chronic problem.
I could have written the above myself as it is exactly my experience.
My Cross Check was originally fitted with Shimano BR-R550 cantis and squealed like mad from the front brake. Replacing the R550s with Avid SD7's and Tektro RL-520 levers improved the braking but but didn't eliminate the noise problem.
However, the rims were badly worn and new wheels reduced the problem to a very low level or no noise at all if I keep the rims and pads clean and pay attention to their toe adjustment.