Wow, I'm so glad I got the 16 inch. I originally was thinking of getting the 12 inch but they called me to let me hear the sound letting me know there is a significant difference between the 12 inch and 16 inch and I really wanted something that sounded like the ocean and this one is it. The 12 inch sounds a little more like rain than waves. Had to go with the ocean waves to remind me of home!