SPCR

I want to buy a network drive with at least 1TB capacity and use it to store document, photos and my iTunes library. I don't want to do any home builds, just buy something and configure it. On the other hand, I don't want this thing to be noisy. Can you recommend something?

I find that a general rule of thumb on consumer level NAS is the quieter they are, the more prone to drive failure.
When sound is figured into feature/benefits/cost equation for a device that is designed to be placed away from the user, its proper drive cooling that usually pays the price.

If I wanted a truly quiet NAS, id build it myself. (but I keep mine in the garage, so loud is fine.)

Thanks, do you think that this one should be bearable?

http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showprodu ... subcat=707

If the fan is this tiny, its not going to be even near quiet imo.

Any other recommendation?

The problem with most consumer NAS boxes is that they are simply too small. They either end up having inadequate cooling or a very noisy small fan.

One of the larger 2 or 4 drive models might be better for you.

The Intel SS4200 is incredible if you want a home NAS. It is under $200 and is completely silent (if it is in the next room). It is rather quiet if it is in the same room.

The unit has two 70mm fans. They spin up at full speed, and then are thermally-controlled. The are not loud, even under load. With 4 WD 'Green' 1TB it is really not a big deal in the same room. That is, when compared to the noise of an average power supply (a low standard).

http://www.smallnetbuilder.com/nas/nas- ... 00e-review

http://www.engadget.com/2007/11/06/inte ... torage-ap/

http://forum.wegotserved.com/index.php? ... -ss4200-e/

It was meant to sell for $500, but they have never been able to move units at that price. Last year it was selling for $300, and this year it is selling for $180. It has a 3-year warranty from Intel.