I solved the loud pump issue and love these fountains.  I have a long entryway and wanted something unique.  As many others have noted, the pumps are quite loud and were obnoxious when all 3 were running.  This is because the base is ceramic and hollow, which acts as a drum and amplifies the sound of the pump.  Simple solution!  I bought cans of expanding foam and turned the base upside down and sprayed the underside of the bowl and around the underside edges with the entire can.  I used 1 can per fountain and let the foam expand and cure.  Problem solved!  The pumps are very quiet now and completely tolerable.  I'm very satisfied with my purchase.  Note: The fountains are actually lighter in color than in this picture.