Binaural beats are an audio phenomenon produced when two slightly different pure tones are presented separately to each ear via headphones. The listener perceives a third, pulsing tone equal to the frequency difference. Tracks marketed for study or relaxation use specific frequency gaps and often include ambient music.
Headphone quality, volume, and the surrounding environment influence the listening experience. Some users try multiple frequencies and session lengths to find a comfortable routine, while others prefer simple steady noise or quiet.