You're right, it's not a great one is it? Better than the crappy saddle one I have though and it's just as loud. When I get around to it I'm going to invest in a really quiet machine. I only ever used mine once two nights ago since I got it last year. I had to use it in the kitchen when I had washing to do in the hope the sound of the washing machine would help to mask the noise. I had my first multiple sissygasms with it though.