99 Responses

1. I can finally sleep!

   March 19th, 2009

   This product works great! The “fan” sound shuts out all the outside noises that have kept me awake at night, and helps me to sleep better. It’s a constant whirring sound that you can adjust to different volumes but even the lowest setting works for me. It’s small enought to put on a nightstand and not take up too much room, and easy to use. My son uses it for nap time as well. It was definitely worth the money!

2. Soothing sound degrades over time

   March 19th, 2009

   After running this product nightly for a year now I’ve noticed that the sound has gradually changed. The soothing “whooshing” sound is now complimented by an increasingly noticeable motorized buzzing noise I find to be distracting. Adjusting the vents on the side can help eliminate the noise (by making the “whooshing” sound louder) but the problem is getting more apparent. I’m afraid I will have to pitch the thing unless the problem corrects itself (an unlikely scenario in the electronics department).

3. Does the job, could be louder

   March 19th, 2009

   I received this machine in 3 days! Super quick shipping! I used the machine last night. The sound it emits is exactly what I was looking for. Similar to a fan and very consistent. There are two levels of noise. A lot of reviews say it could be a bit louder, and I’ll have to agree. It does the job for me because I don’t have any loud noises to cover in my household. I just need a consistent noise to be able to fall asleep and stay asleep. I was hoping it would drown out my husband’s snoring but that is definitely not the case. Do not buy this product if you are trying to drown out noise that is in the same room as you because it will not work for that – it’s not loud enough! However, it will block out most noises from other rooms and the street (given they aren’t extremely loud). I am happy with this product for the kind of use I want to get out of it. Thanks!

4. Wish I Knew About This Sooner

   March 19th, 2009

   I really like this machine. It is soothing to me on the low speed turned as far as it will turn in one direction. I am not trying to block out a lot of noise so I can’t speak to that. I really just wanted something to relax me and soften any noises that might occur at night such as my small dog moving around in his bed, or a dog barking in the distance. Also my husband gets up very early to play racketball and it blocks out bathroom noises. I have tried white noise cd’s but the sound varies depending on your CD Player and the repeat function. A electric fan works perfectly for me but I felt guilty using it in the winter and freezing my poor husband. This machine solved my sleep problems completely and is small enough to take when traveling.

5. Unique and good

   March 19th, 2009

   We have been using a fan for many years for nightly noise. After moving to Minnesota four years ago, the winter nights just don’t quite make sense with a fan running. My wife and I were both surprised by the design and size of the product – very unique. We were also both surprised at how much it doesn’t sound like a fan – which was rough at first. After a few weeks, we are still getting used to the different sound. We still have it parked in our master bathroom and run it in there with the door open since it is considerably louder than the fan we were using in our bedroom. All in all, we like the product and think that it should travel well when we take trips to visit friends and family.

6. sleep mate sound maching review

   March 19th, 2009

   I bought the Sleep Mate when my daughter was an infant,she is 28 years old now. She had colic and it seemed to help soothe her. It lasted for over 20 years before giving up the ghost.Was some of the best money I ever spent. Thanks for making such a reliable product. Pretty rare these days.

7. Not as great as I'd anticipated

   March 26th, 2009

   I purchased this item to try and mask the sound of my neighbor coming down the stairs outside my apt. every morning at 6:30. Unfortunately, I can still hear the noise even with this thing turned on High. I also feel like it is priced too high as it does not feature a variety of sounds like other (less expensive) sound machines do. This machine creates a sound equivalent to having a fan blow all night. You can vary the air flow a bit by turning the top which is just repositioning the vents by a few inches. I wanted to return it but the seller states that they will charge a 15% restocking fee unless there is something wrong with it. Between that and the price of shipping it back, I figured that I might as well keep it or sell it on Craig’s List. But it has done me no good for my present noise situation. I am back to wearing ear plugs at night and the sound machine stays off.

8. Finally, I'm getting some sleep!

   March 27th, 2009

   I’m the lightest sleeper in the world and I’m super sensitive to noise.. I get annoyed by my neighbor’s phone conversations, I hear every car door closing outside, I hear every person walking home from the bars at 2 in the morning, etc. HOWEVER, since I got this “sound conditioner”, I’ve been sleeping through the night! I used to sleep with a fan on, just to try to drown out all those noises, but now that it’s colder, I needed to find an alternative to the fan. This Sleepmate sounds a lot like the fan, without the cold air of the fan. It’s definitely white noise to me, but I could see how the noise might actually keep someone up at night – if they’re used to sleeping in silence. I’m so grateful for this little machine! Did I mention I love this machine? Ahhhh, sleep-filled nights…

9. Great for travel - don't let noise keep you awake again!!

   March 28th, 2009

   I take the Sleepmate with me whenever I travel. I recently took it on a 3 week trip with a friend who snores and who likes the TV on when he sleeps. With the steady sound of the Sleepmate I was able to sleep without being disturbed by the other noises in the room. My friend even began to think he couldn’t sleep without it.

10. Enjoy a good night's sleep!

    March 29th, 2009

    Marpac SleepMate 980A Electro-Mechanical Sound Conditioner Gives a wonderful white sound that blocks noises in the surrounding area. It is not like the clock I have that makes ocean noises or birds, etc. When I hear those, I tune to the cycle of them and it does not help. This really works, but at the same time would not block a loud noise, like the fire alarm or a door or window opening. I would recommend this highly if you live in an apartment or condo and need help to sleep.

11. The best white noise machine

    March 29th, 2009

    I have used the dual-control machine for over 5 years now, and have had the same machine this whole time. It does tend to get more “rattly” after a few years, probably because one of the ball bearings is loosened. I have followed the advice of another amazon customer and turned the machine on its side – this somehow made the sound more even, and I’ve had the machine on its side for the past 1-2 years without problems. This machine is GREAT for light sleepers (like me) who live in an apartment and lie awake at night listening to every car go by and the neighbor’s creaking floors. Of course, it is not loud enough to tune out every single sound, but it somehow makes them less noticeable. I live on a street with heavy traffic, and sleep like a baby with my machine on the quitest setting (for a smaller size bedroom, and the machine is right near my bed). Whenever I end up sleeping somewhere else without bringing my machine along, I struggle every time. I’ve also tried a cheaper machine with recorded white noise and a variety of other sounds (surf, etc.), but it drove me crazy because I could hear the looping of the recorded sounds. Trust me, a machine that generates the sound is well worth the extra money! I’m thinking about replacing my old machine with the same model – even if it wears out after about 6 years of use, I think it’s still worth every penny.

12. Campact and Powerfull

    April 9th, 2009

    This unit is great. It is compact yet has a powerful sound that is very soothing. It is not loud enough to complete drown out a snoring partner but it is loud enough to give you some other sound to concentrate on to help you sleep. My wife has not had to resort to the couch since we have had the SleepMate. I would say that the sound (at it’s loudest setting) is akin to that of a window air conditioner.

13. Two Volume Sound Level Setting in Need of a Third (Quieter) Level

    April 11th, 2009

    I recently purchased three Marpac SleepMate 980s. Two were to be used in my classroom, and one in my home. My students complained that even the lowest-volume sound setting on the machine interfered with their work. A tenant in my home complained that when the machine was placed in the hallway even the lowest-volume sound setting kept him awake. With those complaints lodged, in fairness it must be said that the Marpac SleepMate 980 is a well-constructed machine. It is effective at deadening outside noises, helping one concentrate, and creating a peaceful enclave. The machine might be improved if a third lower and quieter volume adjustment were added. But then again, a large bowl placed over the machine would help users acheive that third (quieter) sound level, if desired.

14. Great at home and travelling

    April 29th, 2009

    At first I thought this would be too quiet for us when I tried it the first time while I was awake, but at it’s loudest setting it is perfect to tune out around 99% of all the noise that would normally wake me up. After having it for nearly 2 years I am very, very happy with it. I take it with me on vacation, business trips, pretty much anywhere I am sleeping this is with me. At hotels where I have heard people stomping down the hall I was able to sleep uninterrupted with this machine. One word of warning, if you put this in your carry-on luggage they WILL search your bag! I have taken this on 10+ trips in my carry-on and had them open my bag and check this sleepmate out at least 9 of those trips.

15. Can't sleep without it

    April 29th, 2009

    I love this product and have one for every member of my family. It provides the most-perfect white noise to block out extraneous sounds while you sleep at night, or nap during the day. As a used-to-be shift worker, I can state it’s the must-have for day sleeping.

16. Works great!

    May 6th, 2009

    It’s everything I expected it to be from reading other reviews before buying it. One complain is that it’s too loud to put in the same room for our 15 months old toddler. She scares its noise. I have to put ot outside her room.

17. Great product!

    May 28th, 2009

    When I received my package and opened it, I was surprised at how small the unit was and worried that it may not be able to produce the sound effect I was looking for. I plugged it in, adjusted all the different settings, and am VERY pleased with the quality. Good things DO come in small packages. Anyone thinking it’s not loud enough either isn’t adjusting all the settings available or is used to a jet landing in their bedroom. I would recommend this to any light sleeper or anyone looking for white noise.

18. White Noise Machine

    May 28th, 2009

    I have enjoyed using my Sleep-Mate Sound Conditioner. My Condo neighbors are usually very noisy at night, and my sleep has been disturbed many times. Since I’ve owned the wonderful white noise machine, my problems are over. This machine sounds a fan, but screens out any outside noises, loud music, etc.

19. Great White Noise Machine

    June 22nd, 2009

    I live on the first floor in an apartment with what seems to be paper thin walls and flooring. I have very noisy neighbors and constantly hear footsteps, water running, and various other outside noises. This white noise machine works great at minimizing distractions and helping to have more peaceful sleep. Also helps to drown out noise in my own apartment if I am having a conversation that I want to ensure that no one else hears. It took me about a week to get used to it so be prepared for that when you first get it. I keep mine on the low setting with the top all the way open and the sides all the way closed. This seems optimum to me. Keep in mind on the high setting with all of the vents fully wide open, this thing can get loud. I don’t see how anyone can sleep with it on that setting but I’m sure some people do… I still hear footsteps but what is great about this machine is that you end up concentrating on the white noise while sleeping so you are not suddenly woken up by loud noises. It does an excellent job of blocking out sounds such as TVs, music, talking, and water running. It is pricy but I think this is a must if you live in an apartment. Also the SleepMate and SoundScreen models are the exact same thing just different labels. I believe the SleepMate is marketed towards consumers and the SoundScreen is marketed towards businesses.

20. Sweet Relief!

    June 23rd, 2009

    When I moved into my new apartment, I found that I must have been wearing ‘rose colored’ ear plugs when viewing it, because I didn’t notice the non-stop traffic noise until I was all moved in and tried to sleep… I’m known to be able to sleep through just about anything. Friends and family have said that I could probably sleep with the bed burning around me. Heck, I’ve lived along freight train lines and had no trouble sleeping, but I couldn’t get used to the constant roar from the trucks and buses passing by my bedroom windows. Becoming increasingly cranky due to lack of sleep, I tried several of the usual remedies to reduce the noise: My fan wasn’t the right pitch to cover the bus sounds… Noise reducing curtains don’t cover low base sounds, just pink noise… And I cannot wear ear plugs for extended periods. So, getting desperate, I looked into other options. I purchased the Marpac SleepMate 980A after reading the favorable reviews here on Amazon as well as several recommendations from sleep centers and I couldn’t be more pleased with my purchase! I’ve had it for about three weeks and believe it to be a miracle machine. The fact that the noise pitch can be adjusted made it a snap to find the correct pitch to cover the traffic noise outside my apartment. I do admit that I have to run it on the louder setting near my bed to get complete noise coverage, but I habituated to it nearly instantly and have been sleeping soundly since. Now, each night before bed, I’m switching on my Marpac and giving it a loving pat for the sound sleep I know I’m going to get. PS – it’s helped my cat to sleep through the night too!

21. Works as advertised...

    July 24th, 2009

    Okay, so I was very skeptical about this when I saw it online… I live in an apartment complex off a fairly busy street and ambient noise levels are so loud that I was willing to lay down some money to try and reduce the effects. I turn it on max power and it seems to wash out the other random noises from the street-level. Cars and buses can’t be heard zooming by any longer and I only tend to hear fire trucks or police every once and a while now. I also have a roommate and the walls aren’t that thick so it washes out the noise from the tv for the most part. It’s basically like having a fan next to you but slightly louder. The sound it makes is not quite comforting but it’s neutral if that makes sense. I turn mine on every night now and the loud ambient noise is not much of a problem anymore.

22. Lifesaver

    July 27th, 2009

    Love this thing. Even my parents, who generally consider this type of thing a waste of money, rave about it. Yippee!!

23. Does what it's supposed to

    August 1st, 2009

    Share the bed with a snorer and at least 2 cats. This can’t drown out all the noise but does a decent job, use it every night. I didn’t realize how well it works until I forgot to turn it on one night, was up at least half a dozen times. It’s also small enough to fit well on my nightstand. Wish I could figure out how to mount it between myself and the snorer without damaging the enormous headboard!

24. Excellent for noise dampening

    August 29th, 2009

    This provides an excellent buffer for most high pitched and repetitive sounds. I found it works best in a confined area, like a bedroom with your door closed. It could stand to be a little louder but for the most part it greatly improves my ability to sleep through most anything. We use one in our sons room and can carry on outside his room in a normal manner without fear of waking him up. Great product. Simple, reliable, and small.

25. SleepMate

    September 19th, 2009

    Makes a lot of noise but does not seem to block other noises per myself. My husband believes in it but I don’t. Can not seem to get it to make ocean noises or any other kind except a buzzing noise.

26. Not loud enough!!!

    October 4th, 2009

    I bought this machine after reading all the positive reviews here on amazon. My fiance uses a boxed fan to drown out the noise in our room, but I think it’s ugly, so I wanted to get something more effective and compact. This “sound conditioner” doesn’t even reach the sound level of his fan on its lowest level. It’s not loud enough to block out sounds from outside the house, much less the louder ones from the inside. I also bought a lifesounds by marpac for my 9yo, and the volume on it is really really great. It gets extremely loud at the highest volume, and also has other sounds besides the white noise like surf, rain, brook, womb, heartbeat and lullaby (it actually doesn’t have the straight white noise setting, but surf sounds quite like it). I will be returning the marpac sleepmate for the lifesounds for our room too (hopefully…haven’t looked at return policy on amazon yet).

27. Sleepmate saves cruise for this married couple.

    October 6th, 2009

    I was a bit skeptical when I bought the Marpac SleepMate 980A. The first time I used it on a cruise, I was amazed. My wife and I both snore. So we normally sleep in different rooms. It would just cost too much to buy two cabins on a cruise. I took the SleepMate on our cruise. The very first night it masked out our snoring, and we both could sleep in the same cabin. Our cruise was a success due to the Marpac Sleepmate. Thank you Marpac.

28. Small but effective

    October 12th, 2009

    I was a bit concerned about previous reviewers wishing the Marpac were louder, but I decided to try the SleepMate 980A anyway just because I didn’t want to run the a/c’s fan all winter. Indeed, the Marpac SleepMate is not as loud as a wallunit a/c, but having tried it a couple times this autumn, it seems to work well enough, blocking out most city noise (including construction every morning across the street and loud trucks on a busy thoroughfare). I am very pleased!

29. BFF for Life

    October 14th, 2009

    I’ve had the SleepMate for a few days now and I’ve certainly noticed a difference in my sleep. I work third shift, and my house is on the corner of a three-way stop. So you can imagine my annoyance at the non-stop work commuters who screech to a halt and then floor it only to go 300 feet to the light. Wonderful, really. Anyway, I always use a fan to try and drown out the sounds, even earplugs sometimes, but they both only mask the higher frequencies, and not the lower frequencies that well. So I ended up doing some research and purchased this. I’ve seen the comments on the expense, but what is a good night’s sleep worth anyway? It’s not too exorbitant, no more expensive then those ugly Ugg boots people wear. I was surprised at the compact design. Very simple and unobtrusive. And although it doesn’t get as loud as a fan on high, what can you expect from a little machine? You can adjust the tone and volume to a degree, which helps with the aforementioned lower frequency sounds of car engines. They suggest keeping the machine between yourself and the sound you want to block, and also not right next to your head. This is sound advice, as I put the machine 2 feet from the bed and then 3 feet, and I noticed a difference in the perceived volume. It’s a pleasant whooshing sound, like a fan but with less choppy air movement. It did not bother me in the slightest and so far I really like it. I think it would be perfect for travel, as one who spent the night listening to a fellow hotel dweller hack up a lung, it would certainly be useful in places where you can’t get a fan. It’s small enough to even fit in carry on luggage, and I have a feeling we’re going to be friends for life, or at least until the motor dies.

30. Great purchase!

    October 19th, 2009

    I love my white noise maker. It doesn’t drown out noise completely but it does create an atmosphere of less distractions.

31. Great Buy!

    October 23rd, 2009

    So after reading all the reviews, I was a little nervous to buy this because many people said it was either too loud or not loud enough. After buying it and using it for a month, I’ve concluded that those people have either VERY sensitive ears, are close to deaf or don’t know how to read an instruction manual (no offense). I was sleeping with my air conditioner on because the sound blocked out the noises from outside and also lulled me to sleep. However, last month it started to get too cold to sleep with the air conditioner on. The Marpac SleepMate provides the same benefits, minus the cold air. It’s really wonderful and I keep it on the lowest setting and it is still great. I imagine if someone was having a party that I would make it louder, but even on the lowest volume setting it works.

32. Wonderful Solution

    November 3rd, 2009

    If you are looking at this item, do yourself a favor and go ahead and buy it. Placed beside your bed, you can turn toward it to sleep and it will drown out most any neighbor noise.

33. I can sleep again.

    November 3rd, 2009

    We live in the city. It’s amazing how this product masks other noises like barking dogs, the train, sirens, etc. We keep a fan in our window all summer long but when it gets this cool outside, the fan comes out. This is nearly the perfect replacement. It has two speeds and you can make adjustments to the tone of the white noise it produces. The instructions said it would take a week to acclimate to however, I think it took us one day. Both my wife and I sleep better with this sound in the background. No complaints. Works as advertised and I would highly recommend to those who have trouble sleeping because of outside noise or one of you is a snorer. Works like a charm.

34. Excellent!

    November 6th, 2009

    This is the perfect sounding machine. We have tried others and this one is a “natural” sound that puts us to sleep like babies!

35. Does a good job blocking out apartment and street sounds

    November 11th, 2009

    I bought this mostly for my partner who prefers to sleep with a sound machine but I found it helps me some restless nights as well. What it is: it’s a fan, basically, with high and low setting and two variable slots/holes to adjust the sound generated. This small adjustment does actually change the sound quite a bit from more of a wind to more of a subdued hum, picture listening to the wind through a toilet paper roll then closing up the end of the tube to change the sound. This is not a tape loop machine like some other devices that play waterfalls or rain sounds. It’s all generated by pretty simple mechanics. Like my father I have a long history with insomnia. I’m thinking about picking one of these up for him for a gift as I never would have thought such a simple device could really help me fall asleep and would not have gotten one on my own volition but now that I have it I find it does indeed help me some nights. Though honestly I would prefer not to listen to it every night, especially if I have the entertainment of crickets and such to listen to. We have a baby boy on the way and I’m hoping this will help him sleep through the night too. The mechanical nature of it seems a better choice for him than the aforementioned tape loop type machines. Although I am curious to see how he rates this compared to, say, non-repetitive musical white noise I plan to generate from synthesizers (hey a dad has to play with his own toys too!) Perhaps I’ll append his review here when appropriate. I didn’t think I’d appreciate having this thing whir on all night long but it really has helped me and I’m not even the reason I bought it, so I’m rather sold. This unit is well padded underneath to help keep whatever surface you set it on from rattling or resonating. You still may have to move it around a bit on a dresser/bureau if the resonance is too much. I find I have to set it over a cross bar (middle) to keep the bureau from resonating but that’s not the fault of the machine it seems they designed it well to avoid this and I’m just nitpicky. As far as blocking out background noise it seems to do real well at that. I recently came into the bedroom with my radio blasting NPR in the bathroom across the hall and I could barely hear the radio once I entered the room. It also has helped drown out the clomping from the horses that moved in upstairs and the rhythmic late night um … construction … that’s going on next door. And when the baby comes maybe I’ll get one for all my neighbors too.

36. White Noise

    November 17th, 2009

    My daughter requested a “white noise” machine for her dorm room. She started college and was not being able to fall asleep for hours every night. I didn’t have a clue what to buy but after review many other reviews on this product I decided to purchase this one. I was hesitant to spend this kind of money on it but I now have no regrets. My daughter (and her roommate) love this and it has worked out perfectly to help her at night. I highly recommend this to anyone looking for a good nights rest!

37. Sounds like a fan

    November 19th, 2009

    This is a perfect alternative to a fan for the winter months. Our kids love falling asleep to a fan so I bought this item (recommended by a friend) and it is awesome. So small and perfect volume – it has 2 – kids adjusted fast. Would definitely recommend and plan on bringing with me when we travel.

38. Excellent item!!!

    November 20th, 2009

    I love this sound machine. I bought one to put in the nursery when I had my second baby. It worked so well, that I bought another one for my toddler. They are great and block out noises. Both babies have been sleeping better since we got the noise machines. I am very pleased with my purchase. The SleepMate 980A is worth every penny!

39. Very Pleased

    November 23rd, 2009

    In the past I’ve typically used a medium size fan to create white noise so I could sleep better (I’m a very light sleeper) My wife doesn’t really like the air circulation so I looked into a sound machine. After research and reading reviews I purchased the Marpac Sleepmate. Although I feel it’s overpriced for such a basic gadget, it works very well. On the low setting it cancels out nearly all peripheral noise…the high setting blocks it all out. I read a few reviews saying that it did not create enough white noise (in terms of volume) Unless you live next to a train station this will work perfect…by the way, I live 300 yards from a freeway and sleep with the window a little open…this does the trick.

40. Sleep Helper

    December 4th, 2009

    I have an 11 month old baby and a very noisy house (2 older kids). We were using a fan in his room to block out the noise but with the cold weather it was getting too cold in his room. We bought this hoping it would help and it’s been great. I am very happy with this product, it helps my baby sleep so well!!

41. used it for 4 years!

    December 5th, 2009

    Just saw my purchase history on Amazon and had to write a review (my first) I have had this for 4 years in my daughters bed room and we travel with it too. It is white noise, no stimulating birds sounds etc. just sleepy white noise, nice and loud (an be adjusted) small enough to pack on a trip. Blocks out the dog barking, doorbell, plate clanking etc. that wake up a peaceful baby. Buy it.

42. Works Well, Good Fan Replacement

    December 10th, 2009

    I had been using a fan to cover traffic/house noises as I just wanted white noise and did not like the sound loops provided by sound machines. I discovered this product from a friend who uses it to block out the noise from his upstairs neighbors. It effectively blocks out that noise (on the louder setting), and since buying it, it has worked very well blocking out light traffic/house noise for me. It is not a sound loop-the sound is of air going through the machine, it doesn’t use much energy, and is small enough for easy transport. I don’t typically adjust the sound frequency which appears to be one of the benefits of this model over the 580A, but very much wanted to have that option in the event that the standard frequency didn’t quite cover all the noises. Great product!

43. Good but even quietest setting is loud

    December 10th, 2009

    We live in in the city and purchased this for our daughters room. It generally works very well. Our only complaint is even on its lowest setting its too loud for everyday use. We keep it in her closet with the door ajar to muffle it and its fine.

44. Noise level is JUST RIGHT, and sound is perfect!!!

    December 11th, 2009

    This machine is a godsend and well worth the money for the peaceful, uninterrupted sleep (especially at naptime) it has given my infant son!!! I think the sound is the perfect kind of white noise. The best comparison I can think of is that it sounds like the ceiling fan in a home bathroom. It “whooshes” like a fan. I debated getting this for my baby’s room after reading all the conflicting reviews about whether this was too loud or too soft. Now I can give my opinion, which is that I find the volume to be just right on the maximum setting. If I used it on the lower settings, I don’t think it would block noises like our dog barking well enough. On the other hand, if it were much louder, it might be disturbing to sleepers. I think it is just the right volume for a baby’s room. Note: I turn this on when we first come into his room for bedtime, before settling down in the glider for milk and rocking; otherwise turning it on right before I put him down might startle him when he is sleepy. Once it is on, though, he clearly doesn’t notice it at all. We brought this with us on a recent trip, and I’m so glad I did, because it even masked all the “hallway noise” in the hotel. If we ever forget to turn this on before naptime, he often wakes too soon and will not go back to sleep. In other words, I don’t know how I ever lived without this machine. I LOVE IT!!!

45. Works great in our baby's room

    December 14th, 2009

    We got this machine for our baby’s room and, while doesn’t completely mask noise, we are happy with it. When we’re in her room, we can still hear much of what is going on, but with the steady hum it produces, other noises are muffled and become more like mild background noise. There are two settings (high and low), but the disk on the top of the machine can be rotated, allowing air to come from fewer or more of the holes on top, so the volume is variable in that way. It’s lightweight and small enough that we can take it with us when we go somewhere we know she’ll be napping. With it, she has successfully napped through birthday parties, family gatherings, and garbage day with the trucks rumbling up and down the street and clattering cans all day. It has pads on the bottom so it doesn’t vibrate or move while running, which is also nice. So far, we’ve had no problems at all. We much prefer it to the oscillating fan we were using because the fan only had two settings, made the room cold, and wasn’t easily portable when we went somewhere. The only drawbacks have been that it took about two weeks to arrive after ordering and the price seems a little high.

46. Credit Expert Gives Credit to Mechanical Sound Conditioner

    December 14th, 2009

    I live in a hi-rise condo and road traffic can be easily heard. The conditioner has a high and low setting as well as a turnable casing to control the volume of white noise. This is great when you need to increase the white noise volume to “cancel out” outside noise around you. The white noise sounds like air seeping through the crack of a windowsill. I place this product on the floor near my head and turn it on each night. Evil Money Evil Credit

47. Longevity!

    December 17th, 2009

    I have used a Marpac sound conditiner almost every night for over 28 years. It gives a soothing electo mechanical hum (think of a fan) that is adjustable for pitch, and if you get the the 2 speed version also volume. But last month it finally began to make scraping noises. and even after a few attempts to “adjust” the inner workings I elected to purchase a replacment. 28 year… or about $2 per year for a restful sleep

48. Great, could be louder

    December 19th, 2009

    I bought this unit to help reduce the sounds of a neighbor’s dog that would bark every time the owners left. The unit is basically like a fan enclosed in plastic, with two speed settings. I tried the unit this week while I was taking a nap when the dog was barking, and I was able to sleep about 1.5 hours before I finally came to. After I woke up I could still hear the dog but the unit’s air-rushing sound did help take the edge off the barking sound. Note for pretty loud sounds (like my neighbor’s dog) the unit won’t eliminate completely the outside noise. I wish the unit had an even louder setting for extreme sounds, as for the price I would have liked more volume control (or perhaps a bigger unit).

49. Sweet Dreams*

    December 21st, 2009

    I bought this for my daughter who lives in a big city and she just “Loves” it. Drowns out all the outside noise’s and relaxe’s her to sleep. Very Fast shipping.. Thanks!

50. Almost perfect

    December 27th, 2009

    We were looking for a “brown noise” generator, wanting a lower-pitched sound than white noise. The Marpac is adjustable enough to get really close to perfect. By turning the outside and top bevels you can change the volume and the pitch. It’s also small enough to take along when we travel. I’m glad we bought it!

51. Exactly what I expected...

    December 28th, 2009

    I am an extremely light sleeper and in the past I used to rely on earplugs if I wanted to be assured of a good night’s sleep. This device has completely taken the place of the earplugs, as I can now go to sleep without them while remaining confident that I won’t be disturbed by any sounds. Great product. And that’s pretty much all there is to say.

52. djvdelaware

    December 28th, 2009

    Excellent, we have had this sleepmate for a few weeks now and my husband loves it. I love it because we no longer have a fan running in the middle of winter. It took me one night to get used to the sound but now I don’t notice it and my husband sleeps great. I highly recommend this product.

53. Nice

    December 28th, 2009

    Makes a smooth steady sound that helps to mask unwanted noises. Well made and adjustable.

54. Macpac SleepMate 980A

    December 29th, 2009

    Exactly what I exspected. This is my second one seeing my son is using mine. My wife works night shift work. The whole family can rest easy with this product. White noise agrees with us. The order was quick and speedy. No Complaints on the product and service.

55. Blocks out everything

    January 1st, 2010

    I love this sound machine! I purchased it to help drown out sounds so that my 4-month-old’s sleep would not be interrupted. We have a toddler and he plays very loudly, but when the machine is running in our infant’s room and the machine is set to the highest setting I can hardly hear him (which is amazing). I do wish it was louder, but I believe most people wouldn’t want it any louder. Anyway, I liked it so much I purchased another one for my toddler’s room to drown out the mid-night cries of our infant because their rooms are adjacent to each other. She has woken screaming a couple of times, often crying for 10-20 minutes, and my toddler didn’t wake once! (Before, we had a small fan in his room and her cries woke him up.) We also keep the doorways stuffed, and I imagine our walls are average for blocking out sound, if that gives you some idea. My husband and I sleep with a fan in our room, but I intend to buy yet another one of these because I find the sound so nice. It sounds like a fan blowing hard, only you won’t get dried out like you would a fan.

56. Mine is almost 20 years old and works great!

    January 2nd, 2010

    I can highly recommend this product. I am a very light sleeper, and I have slept with one of these things for almost 20 years. It still works! That’s pretty amazing when you consider it runs about 8 hours a day. It’s small enough to take on trips. It makes all the difference when trying to sleep in a strange place. I have purchased a couple more over the years to use in other rooms. I really like the fact that it’s made in the USA. (I didn’t buy mine through Amazon, but I’ve had good luck buying other stuff through Amazon)

57. Can't live without htis machine

    January 5th, 2010

    I bought this because I live in the city. Our neighbors are very close, very spirited, have 2 obnoxious dogs and I have a 7 month old baby that needs to sleep. This works like a charm. I love how the sound is generated within the machine so there is no sound loop. It also plugs in which saves me from buying batteries. One of the best purchases I have ever made.

58. better than a fan

    January 7th, 2010

    is definitely better than a fan, however doesn’t really help me with all the noise that disturbs my sleep (creaky floorboards, doors closing, loud trucks outside) … would probably return it, but not sure if they’ll take it, and too lazy to find out

59. Good but a box fan may be a better and cheaper option

    January 10th, 2010

    I live in a large city near a very busy street so sometimes the street noise from traffic can be annoying to me. I had been using a floor fan, guess it’s known as a box fan, but during the winters especially this one, the last thing I need to turn on is a fan, so after reading the reviews on this product, I decided to give it a try. It does not really block street noise but drowns it out (as a few of the reviewers stated). The bad part is, I noticed that when I have it on for an extended period of time while I’m trying to get to sleep, I sometimes get headaches. It may be that I need to get used to it. When I use it during the day, it’s fine – actually when I don’t have it on, and it’s too quiet I’ll turn it on. If I had to choose between using a box fan or this device I would use the box fan, so if you live in a warm climate, save the money and just get a big old floor fan. But if it’s too cold to use a fan, it’s a very good option. In terms of blocking out loud external noises, it probably works best when you also use ear plugs.

60. Perfect for office

    January 12th, 2010

    We bought 4 of these for a large open office space and they did the job perfectly. They can be adjusted from very loud to a whisper.

61. WARNING - HIGH EMF

    January 16th, 2010

    WARNING!! This product emits a massive amount of EMF! This came as a complete surprise to me as I’ve slept with the machine a foot away from my head for seven years. I was randomly testing electrically powered items in my home when I came across this alarming discovery. The readings were quite literally off the charts, higher than any other appliance, breaker, etc. in the entire house. To give you an idea, cell phones emit 4-6, microwaves somewhere around 50, the house breaker box averages 100. This machine was off the charts (600+) within two inches. Moving back to a distance of one foot, it was still giving off a reading of 300+!!! For your health, please avoid this unit! If you already have one, replace it with something else.

62. Great Product

    January 19th, 2010

    This SleepMate product is invaluable. When putting my grandson down for a nap it blocks out all the outside sounds in our neighborhood. Garbage trucks, lawn equiptment and dogs barking are no longer a problem and don’t disturb my grandsons rest ( and mine). Although I don’t have it very long it seems quite sturdy and look forward to using it for a long time.

63. great item!

    January 22nd, 2010

    I was skeptical at first, but I am definitely glad I bought this item. I live in a on campus apartment where the walls are paper thin and the younger students like to party. This is an issue if you’re grad student like me. However, thanks to this little device, I can now sleep through the night and actually get my work done. I find it very calming and the multi-settings very useful as some nights (like Wednesday)are louder than others. On those nights I just turn it up to high and grab a book and within an hour I’m out cold. This way the neighbors are happy and so am I.

64. Drowns out the noise

    January 23rd, 2010

    I feel like an old person using one of these things, but I sometimes have to get up early and need to block out the noise in my apartment complex. This thing does the job and drowns out the noise.

65. sleep mate review

    January 24th, 2010

    Very fast delivery, and performs as promised-does a great job filtering out noises and you get used to the sounds quickly

66. great for baby (and parents!)

    January 28th, 2010

    This product is WONDERFUL!!! We got this soon after we had our first child and it helps him sleep and it helps us sleep too. We take it with us everywhere we travel.

67. peaceful sleep!

    January 29th, 2010

    My wife’s parents had these when she was growing up. we thought they weren’t made anymore. Got one for her for Christmas. I think its her favorite Christmas gift! Well made, doesn’t look like a fire hazard like her dad’s! Oh, and her dad’s is several decades old and still going strong. That bodes well.

68. Best little sleep machine!

    January 30th, 2010

    It took me a couple of months to finally commit to buying this product because I didn’t want to go through the hassle of sending it back if I didn’t like it. I am so glad I went ahead and made the purchase, it’s great. I love the two different speeds and the adjustable holes on top to give you different fan speeds. I live in a condo and my neighbors are horrible, I stopped using my alarm clock because every morning at 6AM they would wake me up by screaming at their children to get out of bed (that is just a different story all together). My boyfriend would put the fan on in the room which worked but it was so cold..I slept in sweatpants, tshirt, and hoodie..freezing!!! So after 2 mths of no fan and the screaming I bought the machine and it works just like a fan I love it! We use it every night! If you like sleeping with a fan on for the noise but hate waking up with the cold air then you should get it..now! It’s also really easy to move around in case you would like to take it on vacation with you. I just can’t say enough about this machine it really is great.

69. Big help for my tinnitus and noisy neighbors

    January 31st, 2010

    I’ve been using one of these units for several years now and they’re great. I have tinnitus so previously I had some difficulty going to sleep with the ringing in my ears which is rather noticeable when it’s quiet. With the noise from this machine, I don’t notice my tinnitus at all. It’s also good for covering up some of the noises from my upstairs neighbors. The white noise has a soothing sound sort of like a quiet air conditioner running all the time. There are two volume settings, high and low (I always use high). By turning the top and the side, you can even adjust the pitch of the white noise. The unit is fairly compact, so I wrap the cord around it and pack it in my carry-on when I travel anywhere. I highly recommend this unit for anyone looking for a white noise machine.

70. worth the money

    January 31st, 2010

    i have used a fan for white noise for several years, but this is inconvenient for traveling or cold weather. the marpac is the perfect size and provides steady white noise–used it for the first time staying in a dorm in manhattan and had no trouble sleeping! have only used this for a month, so can’t rate its durability but otherwise 100% satisfied.

71. helps my daughter sleep and blocks out all sounds

    January 31st, 2010

    My 19 year old needs white noise to sleep soundly and this machine is doing the trick

72. Marpac SleepMate 980A

    February 1st, 2010

    I don’t find it loud enough and I wish there were more choices of volume (you can only turn a dial which varies very little).

73. best gift EVER

    February 1st, 2010

    my boyfriend has to sleep with a fan on for the noise, but it gets so cold – especially in winter! the marpac makes the perfect noise, the dual speeds are fantastic, and no cold air blasts from it! perfect christmas gift for my man.

74. A Beautiful Noise!

    February 3rd, 2010

    This little machine is so awesome – creates just the amount and volume of “white noise” you’ll need for a truly restful night. I’m like “the princess and the pea”…can’t sleep with a wrinkle in the sheets or any bit of sudden or sporadic noise. ON THIS MODEL you can adjust the volume and the sound qualities (clear or more muffled fan sound) until it’s just perfect for your need any time you’re trying to sleep…or anywhere. Great size for travel. More energy efficient than the fans I’ve always used – and I’m no longer sleeping in a wind tunnel! Just love this and worth every cent!

75. Wonderful machine

    February 4th, 2010

    Great machine with soothing sound. Not at all irritating as others are. Good size but a bit ugly and switch could be a bit more accessible. Quite worth the money.

76. peace and quiet

    February 7th, 2010

    I’ve been using a sound conditioner for many years. No, I don’t live in an especially noisy place,but if the tv is on in another room when I go to bed the sound is completely blocked. I think this type of white noise is helpful to anyone who has trouble going to sleep. Once you become accustomed to it, it’s so soothing!

77. Way too loud!

    February 7th, 2010

    I used to have an item that looked like this years ago, so I bought this one. I chose this one among the look-alikes because it got good customer ratings. I can’t imagine how anyone could rate this positively. This thing is so loud that I cannot have it in the same room with me — and that’s on the lowest volume setting! I ended up putting it in the next room (on the lowest volume) with a closed door between it and me. That’s the only way I can use it. Plus, under the white noise, it has a high-pitched machine hum, as if it’s straining too hard. This is a disastrous product. Do not buy it.

78. Excellent sleep aid

    February 7th, 2010

    The Sleep-mate is just what I needed when loud neighbors would interrupt my sleep. The Sleepmate sends off a nice, even white noise that has given me my sleep back. I would highly recommend this device.

79. sound machine.

    February 10th, 2010

    I would say this product does exactly what it is designed for. It is very easy to use. I have had it for a few months and the only complaint I have is that I wish it had one more setting to go slightly lower. A little quiter. This would be very useful as the low setting even when you adjust the flutes on the side is still a little high, but other than that, it is very good. That is why I can’t give it five stars.

80. great if you love/need white noise to sleep

    February 10th, 2010

    We use these at work, so I was familiar with the product, although I actually found it by reading the reviews of different machines on amazon. I am very happy with it. Some pros are the size (small) and the consistency of the noise, and the fact that there is a Low and High setting. I think it’s a great alternative to using a fan, if that is what you are used to using. Historically, I have used a fan or heater when I needed white noise to sleep, and I like using this better since it doesn’t change the temperature or blow air around, and I am hoping it uses a lot less electricity.

81. Absolutely amazing product

    February 11th, 2010

    The only thing I can add to what other people have written is this product is amazing. It is just loud enough to cover most sounds, and you get the two speed, the faster of the two is louder to cover most all other sounds. I am a person that HAS to have some kind of white noise in the room… from a fan, or music or something. This little machine truly is is what they say. It has a constant stream of white noise without any mechanical noise. It does a very good job. I am sure there are some people out there that need just the right kind of noise machine to do the trick for them. But for me, this is great. I have it a shelf at the foot of my bed. You turn it on b4 bed, turn it off in the morning. I would recommend to friends, family and anyone else needing a white noise generator. Good hunting!

82. marpac sleepmate

    February 13th, 2010

    Purchased this almost 2 months ago hoping to drown out my husband’s snoring. Been using it every night since we received it and it works like a charm. Nice fan noise without the wind. Two settings, hi and low, and you can alter the sound a bit by turning the outside case. Low makes just enough noise to drown out most of the snoring. Wished I known about it sooner. I don’t think i’ll ever catch up on the years of lost sleep!

83. My sinuses are much happier!

    February 13th, 2010

    I bought this for my husband after complaining every night for 11 1/2 years about his fan that he used for his white noise. Finally I looked into other noise machines that did not blow air around the room and dry out my sinuses and irritate my allergies. We’ve used this for 2 or 3 nights and I LOVE IT! At first I wasn’t sure it would mimic the sound of a fan when we first turned it on, but the first night was great! We have only used the low setting on the dual machine so far but it’s perfect. I am very happy I purchased this and highly recommend it to anyone who would like white noise without the air blowing from a fan.

84. Wish I knew about this years ago

    February 16th, 2010

    I work nights out of town, so sleeping during the day was always a challenge. The Marpac sound screen is fantastic. I leave it on high and now can’t sleep without it. I have one for home and one for work. You quickly get used to the sound and it drowns out all other noise, even loud waste disposal trucks.

85. Much better than I expected

    February 17th, 2010

    I was wanting to buy a noisemaker for my fiancee so she could sleep during the day to work nightshifts. She didnt even want one because she said it would keep her awake but I made her try it anyway. Now she sleeps so much better and I cant sleep without it myself. From the way it looks I was pretty skeptical about it but it had such good reviews I bought it anyway. Dont let the looks fool you, it works great and actually has a fairly wide variety of sound and pitch just from turning the side or top to conver/uncover more air holes.

86. Very pleased overall

    February 17th, 2010

    This white noise machine is very compact and effective and blocking noise. It sounds similar to a fan and the blowing air sound is pleasant and not a distraction. I use it in a bedroom so I don’t hear talking or TV noise coming from other rooms in the house. I also use it at night because I like the fan-like sound when I sleep and don’t have to worry about hearing noise in the morning if I want to sleep in. I’ve found it to work best when it’s kept somewhere about waist-high, instead of on the floor. The only reason I gave it 4 instead of 5 stars because I think it would be helpful to have three speeds instead of two. Even on the highest setting, sometimes I wish it were a little louder, but it’s a minor issue, not enough for me to not really like this product. I’m happy with it and wish I purchased something like this years ago.

87. great product, came in great condition and works well.

    February 18th, 2010

    This is a wonderful product. It is well constructed and works well. Not too loud but just right for a comfortable sleep.

88. truly helpful

    February 20th, 2010

    This does what it says it will and i would reorder immediately should current one fail.

89. peace

    February 22nd, 2010

    Was gun shy that this thing was 60 bucks, but since first turning it on, all I’ve said since has been, “one of the best things I’ve ever bought!” Ever since I was a kid I needed a fan or humidifier going to get me to sleep and I didn’t even know these things existed until I saw it in skymall! (who would think I would thank skymall? Not me). Listen, this thing isn’t going to cure cancer, but for white noise needers out there, I think you’re gonna love this.

90. Got sleep problems? No more with this product!

    February 23rd, 2010

    I have sleep apnea. I live in a relatively noisy environment. Nothing has worked for me. I have tried the cheap digitally generated sound products from Home Medics etc. and they all have these weird sound loops that repeat themselves. Drives you nuts if you can’t sleep. This product is OUTSTANDING! It generates a simple white noise that is constant with no loops or breaks. It has 2 motors and an infinite volume control to tailor it to just the way you like. It will take a week or so to dial it in and get used to the sound. Once that happens you will sleep through the night. Highly recommended.

91. Can't live without this!

    February 23rd, 2010

    We got this machine to put in our son’s room when he was 6 weeks old. It’s wonderful! It blocks out the noise from the rest of the house so he can sleep and we can live! We can’t live without it!

92. Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzz....

    February 25th, 2010

    This sound machine works perfectly; my fiance and I love it! We’ve used it every night (7-10 hours a night) for about a month now and are very pleased. We have it set on low with 3 holes open for a room that is about 10 X 12, and we live in a fairly quiet apt building, but on a main road. So that setting helps with street noise and playful cats in the apt, and using the fan on high is probably great for larger spaces. We truly do sleep more soundly now. Would definitely recommend this product!

93. Soothing

    February 26th, 2010

    I bought two to help block out noise. I have noisy neighbors, but that is expected living in an apartment. I love the sound of the white sound. We have them at work too. It doesn’t block out the barking dogs or the children running around down stairs, but it at least clams me down, so I’m not so frustrated. I also turn one at night to sleep.

94. Good buy!

    February 26th, 2010

    The machine is smaller than I expected but it seems to be of great quality. I just wish it were a bit louder. I can still hear noises over it but I am a light sleeper. Glad I purchased it though. Sounds like a fan without the cold air associated with fans.

95. Good white noise machine

    March 1st, 2010

    After going through three of the other sound machines where the noises are looped and my last one was making static noises which would keep me up I bought this one. I was disappointed at first thinking the white noise wasn’t loud enough for me but it is. I love this machine and it pretty much masks any noises. I would recommend this item to everyone.

96. Sweet slumber

    March 4th, 2010

    Excellent sleep aid. My sleep has greatly improved to permit complete sleep thrus each night. Prior to this purchase I would sleep thru about two thirds of the time. Delighted that I made the purchase! Absolutley worth it.

97. Great if you share room with baby

    March 7th, 2010

    The constant (non-looping) whooshing noise sounds womb-like but isn’t annoying to parents who have to listen to it as well. We purchased this after trying several MP3s of ocean, stream, etc. but couldn’t stand listening to it all night. We’re very pleased with this little machine.

98. Looking to Drown Out Loud Downstairs Neighbors

    March 7th, 2010

    I live on the first floor of a multi-family home and recently two people moved into the basement apartment below me. Since the basement is not insulated like it would be if it was between two floors where people are living (hence why it’s an “illegal” apartment- no one is meant to live down there!!), the noise I hear from them is two times as loud as it should be. They are very erratic in their behavior- being up all night, tv blasting at all hours and talking and/or yelling at each other over it- that it was waking me up in the middle of the night AND preventing me from falling asleep. After they have not quieted down at the multiple requests of the landlord, I figured that buying a white noise machine was my only option left to try and drown them out. The first night I used this- what a difference!! I placed it between my bed and my nightstand. I use it on the level I, which is the low level. The level II seems to be too loud for having it right next to my bed. It took me a couple days to adjust the top and the bottom to the right pitch to drown out the male voice, and now I can barely hear them when I am trying to sleep. This machine is not meant to cancel out all sound, just the majority, which it does. I still can faintly hear them, but by no means as loud as before I had the white noise. I have not been woken up by them since I started using this! Give it a try if you have neighbors who are crazy like mine.

99. Not loud enough

    March 8th, 2010

    This sound conditioner has a nice whooshing nice, but wasn’t loud enough for us. Our goal was to cover the household sounds so our baby could sleep without disturbance, and this machine didn’t produce enough noise for that. We have an inexpensive sound machine that we can turn up much louder.

100. BEST Sound Machine Option on the Market!!!

     March 9th, 2010

     I regret that I have never taken the time to review any of my purchases, especially since I often rely on other’s reviews when making purchases, and when purchasing this sound machine in particular. I cannot say enough about the Marpac Sound/Sleep Machine. I have been using fans to cover up noise and fill in the quiet for years, yet a fan cannot even compare to what this machine does. It is like a miracle machine that doesn’t just cover up noise, it swallows it whole, leaving not even a crumb of outside sound to bother you. The true test was giving one to my parents, who have had a fan in their room since I can remember because of ringing in my dad’s ears. They were sold after the first night and really couldn’t get over how well the white noise filled the room and covered up outside noise, and without the cold breeze blowing dust around!! I just purchased a third one for my daughter’s room and really want to buy one for all the people that I care about in my life! Love it! Love it! Love it!

101. I like it.

     March 9th, 2010

     So far I am enjoying my new sound machine. I could use just a little more volume on mine at times though.

102. Can't live without it!

     March 9th, 2010

     I just bought my second SleepMate. The first one still works fine but I thought that after 16 years of heavy use it was time for a new one.(My wife and I fight over it when I travel). I’m a light sleeper so this machine has changed my life because it provides a soft background noise that helps keep me in my deep sleep. This is probably one of the best products I have ever purchased.

103. It will wear out eventually...

     March 10th, 2010

     I am unfortunately always having to replace this product after a while as it wears out. I have been using one to help me sleep for the last seven years and I am currently on my third one. They always end up developing a “rattle” or “whirring” noise—and not the good kind of “whirring” but a distracting “something’s-not-right-with-this-thing” kind of whirring, over time. Also, they really don’t cover up noise, but rather help the brain into an alpha-wave state, which is associated with deep physical and mental relaxation. I still hear all kinds of ambient noise, even with it on. I also wish it had a lower tone, but it is the best one out there, so I will keep on buying it even though it ain’t perfect. When you are sleep deprived, you’ll take whatever’s close enough!