They are definitely louder than compounds. I wouldn't do silencers that attach to the string. They will only slow the arrow speed, and won't silence much at all. You can buy the silencers that screw onto the bow. I got mine from Excalibur. The string actually hits these upon release of the arrow. They quiet the bow A LOT! It's still gonna be louder than your compound, but I bet you'll give up a little more sound for the increase in speed.