The design on the sidewall makes them look much more aggressive than they really are. If you look at the overall tread pattern, they're not overly aggressive...compared to a BFG AT/KO...which are pretty quiet for what they are.
Also, The WK2 is loaded with sound deadening. Would take a big difference in overall tire noise to notice a significant increase in the cabin....with the windows closed obviously.
I don't have experience with these personally, but the compound of the rubber has just as much to do with road noise as the overall design of the tread.
