It is louder, heard a electric 1/8 buggy? Pretty much the same drivetrain, bomb proof with 1/10 power.
If it is loud loud though his may just need maintenance or propper lash in the gears because they aren't crazy loud... unless he is using the metal spur gear.

I drove your truck for about a year so I know it well. Ask the tekno guy for a couple laps with it