High acoustic noise levels in fMRI-acquisitions are not only problematic in terms of undesired activation patterns in the brain, but also with respect to patient comfort. A 2D-EPI sequence is presented which is capable of acquiring fMRI-data in silent mode by using a head insert z-gradient coil. For silent data acquisition, a wave-like k-space trajectory is then required. The sequence is compared to a standard FLASH and EPI acquisition. The measured acoustic noise of the silent 2D-EPI is in the order of the idle mode of the scanner and arises from the sound of the continuously active helium pump.
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