My own experience suggests that a tighter chain actually exacerbates chain noise. There's always gonna be some noise even on a perfectedly paired chain/cog/chainring. I think a properly slightly loose chain (1/4-1/2 inch slack) is the only way to go, insofar as efficiency is concerned because a tight chain creates excessive tension/friction.

If your chain is making excessive noise, it's probably because one or more of the chain/cog/chainring is warn so it's not sitting flush on the one of the other parts. The chances are, try the chain first, then cog, then chainring, in that order of wear.