Bob,

A good quiet shop vac will cost you a minimum of around $400

I guess I should have added UNDER $200 to my list of requirements...

A common failure of the Shop-Vac models is the fusible
link in the motor housing blows.

In my case, I think the brushes and/or bearings wore out. It has been
sounding rather unhealthy the last couple of weeks, and black "soot" was
building up outside the motor assembly. I knew it was ready to die, but was
hoping I could limp it along till I had a little more cash. No such luck.

I initially bought a Rigid from Home Depot and it was loud in comparison.

That's the kind of first hand experience I was looking for. Thanks!

While not exactly "quiet", my old 12 gallon shop vac was quieter than most,
and I'd be happy with the same noise volume. I'd just like something that
lasts a little longer.

Anthony