I've used my two API climbing stands for nearly 15 years and enjoyed every sit. A few things that made them quieter and more comfortable for me...
Carry a foam thermoseat and use it to stand on. Not only does it help silence your foot motion, it helps reduce the heat transfer between your boots and the metal stand.
With regards to a sit for the climber, I got rid of that and added a section of black cargo netting attached with zip ties. The seat is super light weight, comfortable for an all day sit, and I don't have to worry about animals chewing on insulation if I leave my stand out for a few weeks.
Each of these techniques should work with just about any climber, ladder, or permanent stand that you choose.