Its can be a loudish (relativly) machine, hit that sucker with some lube. Mine got much quieter after a bit of time in. Also - check the screws make sure they are all nice and tight. It's the 6v motor standard I just got mine last week. I line at 3 ISH volts but I like my machine slow. I accidently hit 8 - pushed wrong button. It took me about 2-3 tattoos to get into the groove.