Pinball machines bring hours of fun, nostalgia, and excitement—but let’s be honest, they can get loud. Whether you’ve just purchased a pinball machine for sale or already own one, managing the noise level can make a huge difference, especially if you live with family, roommates, or neighbors.
At House of Pinball, we understand the love for pinball and the need for peace. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you reduce the noise of your pinball machine without losing the immersive experience.
Why Are Pinball Machines So Loud?
Pinball machines are designed with a lot of moving parts — flippers, bumpers, pop bumpers, solenoids, and chimes — all of which create mechanical noise. Additionally, speakers play sound effects and music at high volumes to enhance gameplay.
Common noise sources include:
- Flipper coils and mechanisms snapping the flipper bats
- Bumpers and pop bumpers hitting the ball
- Ball rolling and hitting playfield elements
- Speaker volume and sound effects
Understanding these sources is key to managing noise effectively.
7 Ways to Make Your Pinball Machine Less Loud
1. Adjust the Volume Settings
Most modern pinball machines have adjustable volume controls. Check your machine’s settings or manual and lower the sound effects and music volume to a comfortable level.
2. Lubricate Moving Parts
Mechanical noises often increase when parts are dry or worn. Use pinball-safe lubricants on flipper mechanisms, pop bumpers, and other moving components to reduce friction and noise.
3. Replace or Add Rubber Rings
Old or hard rubber rings can make playfield impacts louder. Installing new, softer rubber rings or adding additional dampening rubber inserts can soften the ball’s impact sounds.
4. Install Sound Dampening Mats
Place thin sound-absorbing mats inside the cabinet under the playfield. These mats reduce vibrations and echo inside the cabinet, which lowers overall noise output.
5. Tighten Loose Components
Loose screws, panels, or metal parts can rattle during gameplay. Regularly inspect and tighten everything to prevent unnecessary noise.
6. Use Silicone-Based Pads on Bumpers
Some players add silicone or felt pads on bumpers and other impact points to reduce sharp, loud hits.
7. Consider Cabinet Modifications
If noise is a major concern, some owners add external soundproofing materials to the cabinet walls or build enclosures around the machine to contain sound.
What Not to Do When Reducing Noise
- Avoid over-lubricating: Too much lubricant can attract dust and damage electronics.
- Don’t block speaker vents: This can cause overheating. Instead, lower volume settings.
- Avoid heavy modifications that void warranties or damage your machine.
Benefits of Buying From House of Pinball
When you buy your pinball machine for sale from House of Pinball, you gain access to:
- Expert advice on setup and noise management
- High-quality machines pre-checked for mechanical noise issues
- Genuine parts and accessories for noise reduction
- Ongoing customer support for maintenance and troubleshooting
Final Thoughts
Pinball machines don’t have to be disruptive. With the right maintenance and a few noise-reducing tweaks, you can enjoy your game room without sacrificing your peace.
Looking for a quieter pinball experience? Contact House of Pinball today to find the perfect machine that fits your space and lifestyle.
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