Learn
Understand the science behind each therapy mode.
Tinnitus is the perception of sound — ringing, buzzing, hissing, or tonal tones — without any external acoustic source. It affects hundreds of millions of people worldwide.
It is commonly associated with hearing loss and is thought to result from the brain compensating for damaged auditory hair cells by increasing spontaneous neural firing in the corresponding frequency region. The most common frequencies peak between 4,000 Hz and 8,000 Hz.
Sound therapy is currently one of the most studied and accessible non-invasive treatment approaches for managing tinnitus.
Therapy Modes
NST removes a narrow band of frequencies centered on your tinnitus frequency from broadband noise or music. This strengthens lateral inhibitory connections in your auditory cortex, gradually suppressing the overactive neurons that cause tinnitus.
Usage
Listen for 1-2 hours daily. Benefits accumulate over 3-12 months of consistent use.
Evidence
Landmark research by Okamoto et al. (2010) showed significant tinnitus loudness reduction and reduced auditory cortex activity after 12 months of notched music therapy.
RI uses a precisely tuned masking tone at your tinnitus frequency, played slightly above your minimum masking level for 60 seconds. When the tone stops, many people experience a temporary suppression of their tinnitus.
Usage
Up to 90% of tinnitus sufferers can experience some degree of RI. Sessions are brief (60 seconds) with rest periods between.
Evidence
RI is a well-documented clinical phenomenon. Neurophysiological research shows RI involves suppression of abnormal spontaneous neural firing in the auditory system.
Acoustic Coordinated Reset (ACRN) therapy delivers four tones derived from your tinnitus frequency in a random sequence. This desynchronizes the abnormally synchronized neural activity that causes tinnitus perception.
Usage
Recommended 4-6 hours daily over 3-6 months. Can be played at low volume as background.
Evidence
A systematic review in Frontiers in Neurology (2017) found ACRN to be a potentially effective treatment method, with measurable changes in brain connectivity confirmed by EEG studies.
Binaural beats play two slightly different frequencies in each ear, creating a perceived beat at the difference frequency. This can promote relaxation and reduce stress associated with tinnitus.
Usage
Requires headphones. Alpha-frequency (8-13 Hz) beats are recommended for tinnitus-related stress. Sessions of 15-60 minutes.
Evidence
A 2024 randomized controlled trial found that both music therapy and music combined with alpha-frequency binaural beats produced significant improvements in tinnitus measures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Tinnitus reduction through sound therapy is a gradual process that relies on neuroplastic changes in the brain. These changes accumulate over weeks and months of consistent daily use. Think of it like physical therapy — results come from regular, sustained practice.
Most studies show measurable improvements after 4-12 weeks of daily therapy. Some people notice benefits sooner, while for others it may take several months. Consistency is more important than session length.
Notched Sound Therapy is the most studied and recommended as a daily baseline. Add ACRN for chronic tonal tinnitus, RI for quick temporary relief, and binaural beats for stress management. The app can suggest a plan based on your tinnitus characteristics.
Yes, when used at comfortable volumes. The app includes volume safety caps. Never listen at uncomfortably loud levels. If you experience any discomfort, reduce the volume or take a break.
Headphones are required for binaural beats (they need separate channels for each ear). For other therapy modes, headphones are recommended for best results but speakers work too.
This app is not a cure. It uses evidence-based techniques to help reduce the perceived loudness and distress of tinnitus. Results vary between individuals. Always consult an audiologist for proper diagnosis and treatment planning.
- Never use at uncomfortably loud volumes
- Take breaks if you experience any discomfort
- Consult an audiologist before starting any therapy program
- This app is a wellness tool, not a medical device
- Do not use as a substitute for professional medical advice
- If your tinnitus suddenly changes or worsens, see a doctor