In our Generator, you have two main frequency controls: the "Beat Frequency" and the "Carrier Frequency."
Most people understand the Beat Frequency (e.g., 10 Hz for Alpha). This is the "target" state for your brain.
But what is the **Carrier Frequency**? Put simply: the Carrier Frequency is the base pitch of the tone you actually hear.
How it Works: A Quick Example
Let's say you want a 10 Hz (Beat Frequency) for focus. And you set your Carrier Frequency to 440 Hz (standard musical "A").
Here is what the generator actually does:
- Left Ear: Plays a pure tone of 440 Hz.
- Right Ear: Plays a pure tone of 450 Hz (Carrier + Beat).
Your brain then creates the "phantom" 10 Hz beat (450 - 440 = 10).
If you changed the Carrier to **100 Hz**, your ears would hear 100 Hz and 110 Hz. You'd *still* get the 10 Hz beat, but the tone you "hear" would be much deeper and more rumbly.
How to Choose a Carrier Frequency
The truth is, the "right" Carrier Frequency is mostly a matter of personal preference. The brainwave entrainment comes from the *Beat*, not the Carrier.
The best Carrier is one that you find pleasant and non-distracting.
Here are some good rules of thumb:
For Sleep & Deep Meditation (Delta/Theta):
- Use a Low Carrier (80 Hz - 150 Hz)
- A low carrier is "rumbly" and "warm." It blends very easily with Brown Noise and feels less "musical" or "intrusive." It's perfect for when you're trying to fall asleep.
For Focus & Meditation (Alpha/Beta):
- Use a Mid-Range Carrier (150 Hz - 500 Hz)
- A tone in this range is more "present" and "clear" without being harsh. It gives your mind a clear anchor to focus on.
- This is also where the "Solfeggio" tones (like 432 Hz and 528 Hz) live. Many people find these specific tones to be spiritually or mentally uplifting. Try the "432 Hz" preset!
For High-Energy States (Gamma):
- Use a Higher Carrier (500 Hz - 1000 Hz)
- A higher-pitched tone can feel more "energizing" and "alert." If you're using a 40 Hz Gamma beat for peak concentration, a higher carrier might feel more appropriate.
The Takeaway: Don't worry too much about picking the "perfect" carrier. Start with one of our presets, and if you find the tone annoying, just slide the "Carrier Frequency" knob up or down until it feels right *to you*.