Binaural beats : A revolution in sound technology

Some theories of creation of the universe say sound was one of the primary forces behind the entire thing. Whether it is a case of the Universe being spoken into existence by a sound made by a primordial force, or later theories of cosmology that say the first sound waves left their imprint on the universe, we acknowledge that sound and the conscious part of the brain which perceives it, are intertwined in the physics of matching vibrations. Sound affects brain waves, and may even affect the brain’s output – our thoughts.

What is binaural sound?

We’ve all heard a lot about binaural, and you could be forgiven for thinking that it’s a new-age fad. In truth, the first binaural recordings were made in the 70s and 80s.  According to Wikipedia: “A typical binaural recording unit has two high-fidelity microphones mounted in a dummy head, inset in ear-shaped molds to fully capture all of the audio frequency adjustments (known as head-related transfer functions.”

“The first clip-in binaural microphones using the recordist’s own head were offered by Sennheiser in 1974. The first clip-on binaural microphones using the recordist’s own head were offered by Core Sound LLC in 1989.”

In the years to follow, the effect these recordings produce in the human brain has been studied to understand the process, not only on auditory perception but on brainwaves and the subsequent effect on thoughts.

How are binaural recordings made?

Binaural recording is not stereo but requires stereo headphones to feel the full effect of it.

These specialized recordings are made using two different frequencies (usually 10 Hz-30 Hz apart), fed into each ear. The two frequencies when heard through stereo headphones, produce a third focal point for the sound (usually a midpoint between the two frequencies), which appears to emanate from a third point, but is in fact only experienced in the brain itself. It is a method for achieving a 3-D effect in the reproduction of the sound and may give the effect as being in the same room as the source of the sound. You experience 360 degree sound.

The power of sound

The stimulation and synchronization of the left and right hemispheres of the brain have significant effects on thought processes. During states of deep meditation, the brain’s waves produce synchronized waves in the left and right hemispheres. The effect of producing synchronized sound waves on higher cognitive function through manipulating brainwaves results in improved intuitive thought process. A clarity in the pre-cognitive brainwaves formed by combining left and right brain functions results in accessing the intuitive mind.

During meditation, for example, the corpus callosum (the bridge of nerve connections between the left and right hemispheres) becomes stimulated and synchronized. This effect can be turned on, and duplicated, the more practice you get. The overall effect of practice is like that of getting any form of regular exercise, you get better and stronger at it.

Binaural beats and neural entrainment

Neurons are constantly being created and formed in the parts of the brain that are used for the new activity. A process called neuroplasticity makes new neurons and retrains existing neurons into behaviors that are exercised regularly.

A phenomenon called cortical oscillation can be measured with an Electroencephalograph (EEG). This has demonstrated that:

“The activity of neurons generate electric currents; and the synchronous action of neural ensembles in the cerebral cortex, comprising large numbers of neurons, produce macroscopic oscillations, which can be monitored and graphically documented by an electroencephalogram (EEG).

…Some researchers have published experimental results indicating that such listening precipitates auditory driving by which ensembles of cortical neurons entrain their frequencies to that of the binaural beat.” (Wikipedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Binaural_beats#Binaural_beats_and_neural_entrainment)

In other words, we have been able to measure changes to brainwaves brought about by Binaural stimulation and have evidence that new behaviors can be learned at this fundamental level. Binaural training may be a gentle way of training the brain to have new and different thoughts.

Now we know and have proof, that music and certain patterns of sound can synchronize brain patterns, and result in information or thoughts forming much faster. It will even form new connections that once formed, are never lost.

How does Synctuition work

Synctuition uses the proven, latest technology in sound recording, to produce specific patterns of sound that stimulate the effortless flow of brainwaves between hemispheres of the brain.  The program is designed to teach and exercise the brain to get better at this by practice and promotes particular brain waves resulting in a higher level of intuition.  By sitting undisturbed and listening through stereo headphones, the brain can benefit from the regular stimulation, learning how to default to a more intuitive way of thinking with practice.