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Understanding Pink Noise: How Many Hz Does It Range?

May 17, 2024

Pink noise, often mentioned in discussions about sound therapies and audio testing, is a type of noise that is less commonly known than white noise but equally fascinating. Unlike white noise, which has equal energy per frequency, pink noise has equal energy per octave, meaning it decreases in power as the frequency increases. This creates a balance that is often described as more natural or soothing to the human ear than white noise.


Pink noise encompasses a broad range of frequencies, but it doesn't correspond to a strict single frequency measurement like a musical note does. Instead, pink noise's power spectral density decreases by 3 decibels per octave with increasing frequency (1/f^β, with β close to 1) across the entire audible frequency spectrum, which is typically considered to be from 20 Hz to 20 kHz for humans.


In practical audio applications, pink noise In practical audio applications, pink noise is used to test and equalize loudspeaker systems in various acoustic environments and has been positively implicated in sleep aid research and relaxation techniques. Since pink noise contains all frequencies audible to humans, albeit with varying intensity, its application is versatile and valuable for sound engineers, researchers, and consumers seeking aural comfort.


For those interested in experiencing pink noise, there are many audio files and apps available that generate pink noise for personal use. You can use these tools to create a comforting soundscape during work, for improving concentration, or even as an aid for better sleep.


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