So many choices. Only one brain.
Binaural beats are auditory illusions created by slightly different left- and right-tones played in each earphone. These two frequencies seemingly combine to a beating result; the tones we hear are thought to affect us in different ways. For example, exposure to waves between 13 and 30 Hz, called beta waves, are suggested to improve mood. mindWave channels these tones into 11 different options for "creativity boost," "get focused," "relaxation," "coffee," and more. While far from a scientific study, we noticed results.
In our tests, we felt refreshed and calmer after listening. The binaural tones weren't immediately soothing, reminding us of a vacuum cleaner, wind, ocean waves, or pouring grain. But they weren't unpleasant. After 10 minutes on a soothing mode, our minds were empty; we were so relaxed our mouths were pooling with drool.
What mindWave does is terrific enough to compensate for its poor time management. You can choose increments of 10 minutes up to "infinite." However, the "mentally refreshed" selection suggests you listen for five to 10 minutes, but there's no option for five. There is no timer display once you begin, so counterproductively, we felt the need to keep an eye on a clock. You also can't pause, and we wanted more gradual alerts before nearing the end.
After a week with mindWave, we're either deeply impressed or experiencing a fabulous placebo effect. But ultimately it has a beat that you can relax to, regardless of any scientific effect.
mindWave can perk you up and soothe you down. Our anecdotal tests suggest it works.
No timer. Can't set it for less than 10 minutes. Nauseating visual effects, which mercifully can be ignored. Warns not use while pregnant or with a pacemaker.
