Did you know that noises have colors?
White noise is the most commonly referenced “noise color,” but pink and brown noise also exist. Each one is unique and can have positive benefits for listeners.
As experts on sound masking, Building Systems Solutions believes in utilizing frequencies to improve concentration and communication. If you don’t know the difference between the different noises, we’ve crafted an explanation that will help clarify what these noises are.
White Noise
As the most popular noise color, white noise contains all frequencies found in the spectrum of sounds that you can hear. The frequencies are balanced, so you hear the same amount of each one.
Another name for white noise is “broadband noise.” It is similar to what you might hear on a static channel on television.
The mixture of frequencies creates a static-like sound, which can be intense and high-pitched. Some might compare white noise to the sound of a vacuum, fan, or air conditioner.
Benefits of White Noise
A few studies have been conducted that show the benefits of white noise. These include:
More proof is needed, but many people find that white noise has a positive effect on them. In today’s collaborative, open-office environment, white noise can be a popular tool to help employees stay focused and on task.
Pink Noise
Pink noise differs from white noise as it is a constant sound in the background. Rather than being the source of noise, it filters out sounds that can cause distraction, like cars, conversations, and other noise.
Pink noise is sometimes called “ambient noise.”
Benefits of Pink Noise
Similar to white noise, pink noise is a steady hum that can help you sleep at night. It uses lower sound waves, which makes it gentler and more soothing. Pink noise is a lower pitch than white noise.
Pink noise is a more flat, even sound, mimicking heavy rain, wind, or waves on a beach. The added depth and lower waves filter out higher-pitched sounds, which can help you relax.
Brown Noise
Brown noise, also called red noise, is a rumbling sound that’s deeper. It sounds more bass-like than pink or white noise. The decibels decrease as the frequency increases, setting it apart from pink noise. It also sounds similar to falling rain, wind, or waves.
Some compositions used for sleep sounds use brown noise instead of pink noise to give it a deeper effect.
Benefits of Brown Noise
If you suffer from tinnitus or ringing in your ears, some studies have shown that brown noise can lower those symptoms. I can also help improve your thinking skills.
As for sleep, experts need more research to see if brown noise affects sleep.
How Do Colored Noises Differ from Sound Masking?
Sound masking is a technology that can help improve concentration and protect private conversations.
Some may think that it is similar to white noise, but that’s not entirely true. Sound masking adds ambient sounds to a space through speakers, which helps reduce noise and distractions. It does not cancel out other sounds–it is an inconspicuous noise engineered to match human speech frequencies.
The biggest difference is that a professional sound masking system will adjust as sound levels rise and fall. Playing white noise alone does not do this, so it cannot account for louder conversations or exceptionally quiet offices. Sound masking tends to make people feel more comfortable than listening to white noise.
Many industries can benefit from sound masking for employees and clients alike.
Improve Your Office Comfort With Professional Sound Masking
No matter your industry, sound masking can have many positive effects. The experts at Building Systems Solutions can help you develop a comprehensive sound masking plan that incorporates Soft dB Products.
We can help you address problems in your office, such as loud conversations, speech privacy, and communication. If you have more questions about sound masking, we have the answers.
Give us a call today at 763-502-1515 or contact us online.