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Reviews & Ratings of Marpac 580A Sound Screen / SleepMate -- Based on Over 265 Actual Owner Experiences

Page last updated: May 2010



 

What You Need To Know
91% of the Marpac / Sleep Mate 580A owners included in our research are satisfied with the product.

Pros
Strong and generally effective white noise; good durability; proven track record; value priced

Cons
Little if any volume control; not loud enough for some; too loud for others

More info
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Summary for sound / white noise machine reviews & ratings
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About Our Research
Our findings are based on at least 265 actual owner experiences collected from diverse sources including online message boards, product review websites and product review sections on retailers' websites.


Ratings of Marpac / Sleep Mate 580A
Sample size: at least 265 owners

Effectiveness
Good-Excellent
Sound quality
Good
Loops noticeable
--
Volume potential
Good
Plays nature sounds
No
Plays white noise
Yes
Variety of sounds
Low
Reliability
Good-Excellent
Value
Good-Excellent
Compact
Fair-Good
Light weight
Fair-Good
Can run on batteries
No
Travel friendly
Fair-Good
Clock / alarm
No
Lights
No
Appearance
Good
Timer
No
Price
$41

Glossary


This Marpac sound machine generates consistent, smooth white noise by creating rushing air. In function, think of it as a fan without the air circulation. It does not rely on recordings to make noise, nor does it make nature sounds.

The white noise produced is nearly totally consistent without the surprises that can occur with nature recordings, such as chirping birds or crashing waves. Also, there's no loop that plays over and over as is the case with recorded noises.

The main difference between the Marpac 580A and the Marpac 980A is that the 580A has one setting for tone and volume instead of two. The volume of the 580A is strong and will be effective in masking most unwanted noises. What this means is that if you are looking for a more subdued white noise generator, the 980A may be better for you.

The Marpac has no timer. It's either on or off by manual operation.

The product is somewhat travel friendly and portable given its compact size (5.8 x 5.8 x 3.8 inches) and weight (2.4 pounds). However, it does not have the ability to run on batteries.

Durability for the Marpac is impressive, as good likely as any sound / white noise machine. Expect it to last several years with reasonable care.