White Noise / Sound Machine Reviews / Ratings >>
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
Detailed comparison grid
Summary for sound / white noise machine reviews & ratings
Why a sound / white noise machine?
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.