Frequently Asked Questions

Binaural beats are an auditory phenomenon created when two slightly different frequencies are played separately to each ear through stereo headphones. Your brain perceives a third tone - the "binaural beat" - which is the mathematical difference between the two frequencies.

For example, if you hear 400 Hz in your left ear and 410 Hz in your right ear, your brain perceives a 10 Hz binaural beat. This perceived frequency can help guide your brain toward specific mental states.

Stereo headphones are essential because binaural beats require each ear to receive a different frequency independently. Speakers mix the sounds in the air, eliminating the binaural effect.

For best results, use over-ear or in-ear headphones that provide good isolation from external sounds.

Research suggests that sessions of 15-30 minutes can be effective for most purposes. However, optimal duration varies by use case:

• Focus/Productivity: 25-45 minutes (aligns with Pomodoro technique)
• Meditation: 15-30 minutes
• Sleep: 30-60 minutes (use with sleep timer)
• Relaxation: 10-20 minutes

Different brainwave frequencies are associated with different mental states:

• Delta (0.5-4 Hz): Deep sleep, healing, regeneration
• Theta (4-8 Hz): Deep meditation, creativity, REM sleep
• Alpha (8-13 Hz): Relaxed awareness, stress reduction, light meditation
• Beta (13-30 Hz): Active thinking, focus, problem-solving
• Gamma (30-100 Hz): Peak cognition, memory, learning

For focus and concentration, Beta waves (14-20 Hz) are typically most effective. Many users find 15-18 Hz ideal for sustained attention tasks like studying or working.

For creative work that requires both focus and creativity, Alpha-Theta border frequencies (7-10 Hz) may be more suitable.

40 Hz is often called the "window frequency" because research has shown it to be particularly effective for cognitive enhancement. Studies have linked 40 Hz stimulation to:

• Enhanced memory consolidation and recall
• Improved information processing
• Increased mental clarity and awareness
• Potential neuroprotective effects (ongoing research)

Resonate Labs is built on scientific accuracy. Many binaural beats apps don't actually generate the frequencies they claim. We use:

• FFT-verified frequencies: Accuracy within 0.01 Hz
• Phase-centered algorithm: Proper carrier frequency positioning
• Research-backed presets: Frequencies based on peer-reviewed studies
• Professional audio quality: THD below 0.001%

Yes! Resonate Labs generates binaural beats in real-time on your device. Once the app is downloaded, no internet connection is required for the core binaural beat functionality.

Yes, Resonate Labs continues playing when you switch to other apps or lock your screen. Background audio is optimized for extended sessions (10+ hours) without interruption.

For most people, binaural beats are safe. However, they should be avoided by:

• People with epilepsy or seizure disorders
• Those with heart conditions (particularly with pacemakers)
• Anyone operating heavy machinery or driving
• Children under 18 (limited research)

If you have any health concerns, consult your healthcare provider before use. See our Medical Disclaimer for more information.

Listen at a comfortable, moderate volume. The binaural beat effect works regardless of volume, so there's no benefit to listening loudly. A good rule: if you can't hear someone speaking to you, it's too loud.

For sleep sessions, a very low volume is often most effective.