^ Both of those 40GB models have been put into their 'clean' cycle. The 40/80GB models both have the option of running their fans at high speed for around 5mins to expel gathered dust. Proven and added in FW 2.0. If those PS3's were actually running like that during normal use, they would automatically shut down to prevent further damage. The interwebs is full of scaremongering.
My 60GB launch model is coming up for 2 years old and it's never loud to the extent that's it's audible above any content I'm playing.
Hell, I've been on my PS3 most of the afternoon and I'm actually posting this from it now and the loudest thing I can hear is my 7 month daughter snoring 2 rooms away.
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