I basically sleep like a dead person, and I've tried EVERYTHING. I was tired (no pun intended) of sleeping through classes, work, and just about everything else, so I decided to give this one a try. I have slats under my mattress, so I had to put the bed shaker under my pillow instead - and I'm glad I did! The bed shaker feature works extremely well. If you're like me and you hit snooze while you're still sleeping without realizing it, YOU NEED THIS. The bed shaker will make you feel like you are falling off a mountain; it's very strong, and you may end up on the floor. Now on to the sound; this is the first alarm clock I have ever purchased that wakes me (and the rest of the neighborhood) up 100% of the time. I work full time on an ambulance, and honestly, I can't decide what's louder, my siren or this alarm clock! The very first time I used it, my neighbor came knocking on my door because it also woke him up. Sorry, Mr. D, but I'm keeping it.