Noise colors are terms used in audio engineering to describe different kinds of noise.
The colors are differentiated by the amplitude of various frequencies across the audible spectrum.
Typically, brown noise vs. white noise vs. pink noise are compared.
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Brown noise isn’t better than white noise or vice versa, and the same goes for pink noise.
Which noise color is best depends on its intended use.
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How Do Colors Have Noise?
Noise colors are differentiated by the amplitude (loudness) of the frequencies audible to the human ear.
Given its softer sound, pink noise is commonly considered more pleasing and relaxing than white noise.
It is often used for background noise because it is less distracting than other types of noise.
Some research suggests it may help improve concentration.
Examples of brown noise include:
Which Color of Noise Is Best for Me?
There isnt a set best color overall or for certain activities.
A lot of it comes down to personal preference.
While there is some overlap, particular noise colors can be beneficial in certain situations.
ADHD
Several studies have shown white noise to be helpful for people with ADHD in certain ways.
One study found that adding white noise to the environment enhanced the memory performance of children with ADHD symptoms.
Conversely, this study found that the added white noise disrupted children whodid not have ADHD symptoms.
Another study found that white noise benefited children and adults with ADHD symptoms.
More research is needed to confirm this potential.
Pink noise:Research shows promising results for pink noise as beneficial for sleep.
Earlier studies found that pink noise helped older adults improve their sleep quality.
Is It OK to Listen to Brown, White, or Pink Noise Overnight?
Hearing loss can occur with repeated exposure to 85 A-weighted decibels (dBA) sounds and above.
Sounds at or below 70 dBA are unlikely to cause hearing loss.
This procedure can cause anxiety, depression, worry, fear, and other psychologicaldistress.
Which color noise is best for anxiety depends on personal preference.
What Does Anxiety Feel Like?
Anxietycan feel different for each person.
It may involve feeling worried, on edge, restless, or irritable.
It can make it difficult to concentrate on other thoughts and activities.
Simple ways to create white noise include running a fan or turning a TV or radio to static.
The colors are differentiated by frequency and amplitude.
Brown noise is lower than both white and pink noise.
Research has also shown that white and pink noise may help improve certain sleep problems.
Brown noise may help with concentration andanxiety.
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