Hello to the group,
I recently replaced an old worn-out "V" style belt with one of the new red V-link belts on my Laguna LT-18 bandsaw. The installation was not too bad, but the instructions could be better as many other internet chaps have noted on various discussion groups.
Since there was no room to install the belt behind the lower wheel from the front, I removed the motor from the rear and linked the belt together from the motor shaft portal, on the rear of the bandsaw. This worked great, but did require a second person for a wee bit to get the bolts started.
The main thing is to make sure the belt is installed in the right direction (microscopic arrows pointing in the direction of rotation) and that the tension is sufficient. Beyond that, it's easy if you have a helping hand. I have not noticed any reduction in noise, but it it does run smoother than when the standard V belt was installed.
Others have pointed out that it tends to get better after a slight break in, so we shall see. If your bandsaw or tablesaw needs a new belt/s, I recommend these red link belts highly. Take care and all the best to you and yours!
P.S. Some time ago I also replaced the standard European blade guides on my bandsaw with the new ceramic blade guides from Laguna. My long term test of these guides recently completed and all I can say is, I'm glad I updated the guides! These ceramic guides are much quieter than the old European guides and support the blade much better as well. I highly recommend these ceramic guides if you are a woodturner - no sticky build-up on the bands anymore when resawing green wood!!! :-)