Binaural Beats, Actually Explained

The one-sentence definition

Binaural beats happen when each ear hears a slightly different frequency, and your brain perceives a third frequency that's the difference between the two. That perceived frequency is where the effect lives.

The frequency bands you'll see in our library

• Alpha (8–12 Hz) — Calm, relaxed focus. Good for early morning, creative work, and coming down from stress.
• Beta (12–30 Hz) — Active concentration and problem-solving.
• Gamma (30–100 Hz) — Peak cognition, associated with high-level information processing.

How to actually use them

1. Headphones are non-negotiable. The effect depends on stereo separation.
2. Start with 15–20 minutes.
3. Don't drive.
4. Use them as background for work you're already doing — they aren't a magic pill.

Ready to try one? Head to the library.