I love power ! this tool deliver boat load of it . but you know what ? it do not sound like it . I be never able to use a belt sander before without earplug . this one run at only 84 db . it be the quietest on the market . it be also the smoothest I have use . I have use all of the 4x24 sander and the Makita just seem to do more work faster . maybe it be the fact that it have the highest speed of any , maybe it be the high tech , powerful motor , the efficient drive train . whatever it be , it kick butt . the dust collection system be also top notch . for small job and fine work , I prefer my Bosch 1274 dv . it be much lighter , compact and easy to control . for extend use or heavy sand though , you can not beat this tool .