Binaural beats

Binaural beats or binaural tones are low-frequency pulsations in the perceived loudness of a sound when two tones at slightly different frequencies are played separately, one into each of the subject's ears, using binaural headphones. The frequency of the tones must be below about 1,000 to 1,500 hertz. The difference between the two frequencies must be small (approximately below 30 Hz) for the effect to occur; otherwise the two tones will be distinguishable and no beat will be perceived. The effect was discovered in 1839 by Heinrich Wilhelm Dove.

Related Topics:
Frequency - Loudness - Headphones - Hertz - 1839 - Heinrich Wilhelm Dove

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Interest in binaural beats can be classified into two categories. First, they are of interest to neurophysiologists investigating the sense of hearing. Second, there are those who believe that binaural beats may influence the brain in more subtle ways, producing relaxation and other health benefits.

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