Tinnitus Sound Library: The Science Behind Each Noise Type
.webp)
Tinnitus Sound Library: The Science Behind Each Noise Type and When to Use It
White noise, pink noise, brown noise—which works best for your tinnitus?
Not all sounds mask tinnitus equally. White noise works great for some people and terribly for others. Brown noise helps many sleep but distracts others during work. Nature sounds soothe some ears while irritating others.
Understanding why different sounds work differently helps you find relief faster. This guide explains the acoustic properties of each sound type in our library and matches them to specific situations and tinnitus characteristics.
You do not need to understand acoustics to use sound therapy effectively. But knowing the basics helps explain why that brown noise works better for your high-pitched tinnitus than the white noise everyone recommends.
Understanding Noise Colors: What the Names Mean
Noise colors describe how energy is distributed across frequencies. Think of it like light: white light contains all colors equally, while colored light emphasizes certain wavelengths. Sound works similarly.
White Noise
Equal energy across all frequencies. Sounds like static or a hissing waterfall. Effective for high-pitched tinnitus but can feel harsh during long sessions.
.webp)
Pink Noise
Reduces energy as frequency increases. Sounds warmer and more natural, similar to steady rainfall. Easier on ears for extended use.
.webp)
Brown Noise
Emphasizes low frequencies strongly. Sounds like a deep rumble, similar to thunder or distant waterfall. Often preferred for sleep.
Green Noise
Mid-frequency emphasis matching human speech range. Creates a balanced sound that some find more natural for background use.
Matching Sounds to Your Tinnitus Pitch
Tinnitus pitch matters for sound selection. High-pitched tinnitus (the most common type, typically 4000-8000 Hz) responds differently than low-pitched tinnitus.
For High-Pitched Tinnitus
White noise or sounds with strong high-frequency content can directly mask the ringing. However, some users find this fatiguing. Pink noise offers a gentler alternative that still contains enough high-frequency energy for masking.
For Mid-Pitched Tinnitus
Pink noise or green noise often works well. Nature sounds like rain and rivers contain mid-range frequencies that blend with rather than compete against the tinnitus.
For Low-Pitched Tinnitus
Brown noise provides the low-frequency energy needed for masking. Sounds like distant thunder, ocean waves, or mechanical hums (fan, dryer) can be effective.
Nature Sounds: Why They Work
Nature sounds offer psychological benefits beyond acoustic masking. The brain recognizes these as safe, non-threatening environments, which can reduce the stress response that amplifies tinnitus perception.
Rain
.webp)
Ocean
Forest
Storm
Rain sounds
Contain broad-spectrum noise similar to pink noise but with natural variation. Light rain works well for focus; heavier rain provides stronger masking for sleep or high-symptom periods.
Ocean waves
The rhythmic pattern can be calming, but the variation between wave peaks and troughs means masking is inconsistent. Better for relaxation than active masking.
Forest and birds
Bird calls contain high-frequency chirps that can mask high-pitched tinnitus naturally. Spring peepers (frogs) produce sounds around 6000 Hz, directly matching common tinnitus frequencies.
Mechanical & Urban Sounds: Familiar Comfort
Some people find nature sounds too unfamiliar or stimulating. Mechanical sounds offer steady, predictable masking that many already associate with sleep or comfort.
Fan
Café
Wind
Fire
Fan sounds
The classic sleep sound. Fans produce broad-spectrum noise with emphasis on lower-mid frequencies. Many people grew up sleeping with fans and find the sound inherently calming.
Cafe ambience
Background chatter and activity creates a sense of social presence that some find comforting. The variable nature means it works better for daytime use than sleep.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which sound should I start with?
Start with pink noise. It works reasonably well for most tinnitus types and most people find it comfortable. Experiment from there based on your results.
Can I mix different sounds together?
Yes. Layering a steady noise (like white or pink) with a nature sound can provide both consistent masking and psychological comfort. The app allows mixing multiple sounds simultaneously with independent volume controls.
Why does white noise make my tinnitus seem worse?
White noise contains high-frequency energy that can sometimes highlight rather than mask high-pitched tinnitus. Try pink or brown noise instead, or reduce volume significantly.
Explore the Full Sound Library
Tinnitus Relief App includes 44 sounds across six categories: core noises, sleep favorites, nature sounds, mechanical ambience, soft musical tones, and advanced therapy sounds.
Download Free
Disclaimer: Tinnitus Relief App provides sound therapy tools for symptom management. It is not a medical device, treatment, or cure. Consult a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment of tinnitus or hearing-related concerns. © 2025 Tinnitus Relief App.