This toy was usable in the box for demo purposes. And the volume was fine. When we got the toy out of the box the volume cut down so low that you can not hear it if the tv is even on in the same room. I changed the batteries and after reading the instructions, it stated that the volume would automatically reduce to lower volume after removed from the box for better enjoyment for children. And it has no other volume control. So unless the house is totally quiet you can not hear what the toy is saying. I am a strong lover of Fisher-Price and expected much better from them.