When did music boxes become popular?

Music boxes first appeared in the late 18th Century in Switzerland. They became so popular within the next 100 years that music boxes were 10% of the nation's total exports! Music boxes' appeal declined for a while but surged once more when American soldiers in Europe during WWII brought them home as souvenirs.

How long can a music box play?

There's a lot of variety within the different types of music boxes. They can play anywhere from four to eight bars of music, depending on the size of the cylinder that produces the notes.

What are some of the most popular songs played by music boxes?

Given their origins in the 18th Century, music boxes even now feature many classical pieces like Beethoven's 9th Symphony or Fur Elise. Musicals are also popular, from Phantom of the Opera's "Music of the Night" to "Memory" from Cats. Believe it or not, you can find contemporary music - even TV show theme songs and tunes from Disney movies!

Can I get a customized music box?

Yes, definitely. If there's a piece of music that has special meaning, a figurine to commemorate an important occasion, or a type of wood that would complement your decor, there are specialty music box stores that are happy to provide you with a bespoke creation.

Is there a difference between a music box and a jewelry box?

Yes and no. You can have jewelry boxes that don't play music, of course, and you can have music boxes that don't have any storage space. But, if you have a music box with compartments or hollowed-out areas where you can keep rings, necklaces, and so on, you could call it a music box or a jewelry box - or even a music jewelry box! You get the idea.

Are music boxes expensive?

Only if you want them to be. You can get a very simple music box for less than $15, a one-of-a-kind luxury purchase for over $100,000, and everything in between. Most music boxes, however, fall in a price range between $50 and $150.

Can I get my music box repaired?

Yes. Not every retailer of music boxes offers a repair service, however. The more specialized (and, perhaps, high-end) the music box store, the more likely it is that they can fix a music box you already have.

Can I return my music box?

Many retailers of music boxes allow returns on non-customized items only. You may be charged a restocking fee and have to pay any costs for the return shipping.

The Music Box Shop Review for February 2026

Item: The Music Box Shop Review
Rating: 3.5
Author: Top Consumer Reviews

Thursday, February 19th We evaluate products and services based on unbiased research. Top Consumer Reviews may earn money when you click on a link. Learn more about our process.

2026 Music Box Store Reviews

Where can you find the best selection of music boxes online? There's something about a music box melody that brings us back to a simpler time. Appearing first in Switzerland in the late 1700's, these creations invoked a sort of magic for all who heard or saw them. Centuries later, they are still enjoyed by collectors, music lovers, and art-appreciators of all ages.

3.5

GOOD

Good

The Music Box Shop

Prices range from $29 to $15,000
370 options
Repairs done on site
Shipping is $15 or express is available for $45
"A+" rating from the BBB
In business since 1996

GOOD

3.5

On the The Music Box Shop website

With options in numerous price ranges and designs, The Music Box Shop wants to provide your next memorable musical gift. Calling themselves "the original" music box shop, this company has been working to provide quality products with lovely music for over 30 years.

Owners can repair onsite

Owned by Dawn and Nancy Cox, a daughter-mother pair, this company has been selling their music boxes online from Phoenix, AZ, since 1995. We love that this duo put this information right on the home page of their website so shoppers know exactly where their quality gifts are coming from. Additionally, they welcome shoppers to their in-person location where they are able to repair music boxes.

Photos featured but no sound samples

From the start, the homepage of The Music Box Shop's website puts the products at the forefront. Though the design of the website could use some updating, it's easy to look through different categories of music boxes, including Sorrento, ballerina, Christmas, musical eggs, figurines, baby and children, and under $50. Product pages can be sorted by name (which isn't very helpful since most are listed as the product number), price, age, featured, and best-selling. When you indicate you'd like to shop by collection, the products are still shown as photos but it helps to make the vast selection more manageable to navigate. You can also use the search bar to find your selected theme or style. Each product listing shows a few photos of the item, lists any personalization options (engraving or changing music as permitted by the item), tells the tune played, and gives the product dimensions. Disappointingly, there are no videos or audios to hear samples of the music, even for the most expensive option which plays 15 minutes worth of classical music. Hearing this would surely help us to make a decision - especially when shelling out $15,000.

Customize from extensive song selections

Music can be kept as listed or changed for an additional fee depending on the product. An extremely lengthy list is available to peruse to see if they have your song - classical, showtunes, romantic ballads, holiday songs, Disney themes, and even country and rock hits are included. Again, we wish there was a way to preview the songs prior to making a purchase.

You can engrave but it will cost time and money

Engraving options are available on select items as well for an extra charge. Select styles allow you to choose the tune player for your box (18-note, 30-note, or 36-note, for example). Engraved plaques allow up to three lines for a cost of over $30, and it will add up to a week to your product's delivery estimate. If you want your gift to be wrapped, you can have them do it for an extra fee.

Hundreds of music boxes

The Music Box Shop offers 370 options for shoppers, so it may help to narrow down your selections when browsing. There are cute ballerinas, chubby figurines, beautiful floral choices, religious items, and even charming cameo musical paperweights. They also stock non-musical items, water domes, dolls, and even a Reuge Music Box disc player.

Help needed

It doesn't seem there is any kind of warranty or refund policy here. The website truly could use more information to make shopping easier for online consumers. For those seeking customer service - or more answers about their products - The Music Box Shop offers an online chat, online form, or email address. Though not listed on their "contact us" page, their phone number is also available on their website.

Shipping is a flat charge

Shipping costs are not listed, though at checkout shoppers can choose between shipping or pickup. USPS Priority mail (3-5 days) is offered for $15 or Priority Express is a choice for $45.

Customers are happy with their product and service

The Music Box Shop is an accredited business with the BBB who rates them as an impressive "A+" with no complaints. Their online review presence is limited to less than 50 reviews between two sites, though the customers are raving. This music box retailer has earned impressive marks, with averages of 4.8 to 4.93 out of 5 stars. Reviewers note that they received "quality merchandise and wonderful service," and they're happy with the "very knowledgeable, friendly, family-owned business." As a result, we can include The Music Box Shop among our trusted music box retailers.

Just above average for us

It's great that this family business is loved by a small but vocal group of reviewers. Additionally, there are some great products available at The Music Box Shop, but without being able to hear song options, we can't rank them any higher on our list.

On the The Music Box Shop website

Continued from above...

Where Can You Find the Best Selection of Music Boxes Online?

There's something about a music box melody that brings us back to a simpler time. Appearing first in Switzerland in the late 1700's, these creations invoked a sort of magic for all who heard or saw them. Centuries later, they are still enjoyed by collectors, music lovers, and art-appreciators of all ages.

Shopping for music boxes online opens the door to a wider selection than most brick-and-mortar stores could ever offer. Online retailers bring together artisans, manufacturers, and collectors from around the world, making it possible to browse classic European designs, contemporary keepsakes, and rare collectible pieces all in one place. Detailed photos, descriptions of movements and materials, and customer reviews help shoppers understand the craftsmanship behind each piece, allowing them to choose a music box that truly resonates with their taste or the sentiment they wish to convey.

Music boxes can take many forms, from the simple hand crank box playing a light tune to the 144-note mechanical movement masterpiece. They can be solid, hollow with room to store trinkets, or large boxes to keep treasured family keepsakes and jewelry. These creations may be stationary or have motion. Some are created from fine wood while others are made from porcelain.

One delightful aspect of music boxes is the many themes they can feature. Ballerinas are an all-time favorite, as are religious imagery and floral patterns. Today's younger collectors may seek pop culture favorites revolving around video games and favorite movies.

Music boxes can feature tunes of all types, from traditional classical music to upbeat Disney favorites. Additionally, as a result of the advancements in technology, digital options allow voice recordings or original compositions to be added to some music boxes, making a gift into a true heirloom to be treasured for generations to come.

The best online music box shops also make it easy to shop by theme, tune, or occasion, whether you're searching for a romantic anniversary gift, a whimsical nursery keepsake, or a refined jewelry box for everyday use. Many offer personalization options such as engraved messages, custom song selections, or special packaging, adding an extra layer of meaning to an already timeless gift. With the convenience of online shopping and access to such a diverse range of styles and melodies, finding the perfect music box has never been more enjoyable.

When considering the best music box options for yourself or a gift, we recommend considering these criteria:

Style. Some people enjoy certain artwork or themes on their music boxes. From gorgeous Italian inlaid boxes and sculpted porcelain roses to ceramic animals and wooden creatures, there is something to suit every taste if you know where to look. Other musical items such as snow globes and figurines may provide the theme you're seeking to adorn your shelves. When you visit a retailer, it's pretty easy to quickly discern if the style of the box you prefer will be sold there or if you should look elsewhere.
Price. Music boxes can cost less than dinner for two or as much as a used vehicle. Decide your budget ahead of time - just because a music box is inexpensive, doesn't mean it's poorly made. However, the very expensive boxes are usually rare, expertly crafted, or vintage. Any well-made music box can serve as a family heirloom if it has meaning behind the music, theme, or personalized message.
Warranty. Return policies vary greatly between companies so keep this in mind as you are shopping. The best ones give you at least a year's warranty or guarantee their product for a couple of months. Be sure the amount of money you are spending is covered by the company's promise.
Retailer reputation. Finally, can the company be trusted? Some established companies have been in business for decades while others don't offer any details about their company to assure customers that they'll be around to take care of problems. Look for reviews about the quality of products received, the customer service given, and complaints about the company.

At Top Consumer Reviews, we know that purchasing a music box can mean more than just online shopping for you. You may be seeking a meaningful heirloom for a gift or to expand your own collection. Whatever the reason, we have reviewed the most popular music box retailers online today to help you find a treasure which can provide musical memories for years or even generations to come.

The Music Box Shop Review: Music Box Stores

2026 Music Box Store Reviews

The Music Box Shop

Where Can You Find the Best Selection of Music Boxes Online?

Music Box Store FAQ