top of page

Unlocking the Mystery: How to Play the Brown Noise

May 17, 2024

The brown noise, also known as brownian noise The brown noise, also known as brownian noise or red noiseThe brown noise, also known as brownian noise or red noise, is a type of low-frequency noise that shares its name with a popular urban legend that suggests it has the ability to cause involuntary gastrointestinal distress. Although the claims of the brown noise being a 'gastrointestinal magic bullet' have been debunked, it is still a fascinating topic to explore, especially in the context of music and sound frequencies.


What is Brown Noise?


Brown noise is a signal characterized by a power spectral density that decreases by 6 decibels per octave as frequency increases - meaning it has more energy concentrated at lower frequencies. It sounds similar to a waterfall or roaring waves, and is often used in sound therapy and sleep aids.


How to Generate Brown Noise


To play the brown noise, one must first generate the specific frequency pattern that characterizes it. This can be done using a variety of methods, including:



  1. Audio Software: Programs such as Audacity and Adobe Audition allow users to generate a wide range of different noises, including brown noise, by configuring the software settings to produce the desired pattern.



  2. Noise Generator Apps: There are many apps available for both iOS and Android devices that offer customizable noise generation options. Some popular ones include myNoise, White Noise, and Relax Melodies.



  3. Websites: Online noise generatorsWebsites: Online noise generators, like Noisli and SimplyNoise, also offer brown noise as one of their options. These websites are incredibly user-friendly; just visit the site, select the desired type of noise, and adjust the volume as needed.





  1. Synthesizers: For music enthusiasts and aspiring noise-makers, synthesizers can be used to create a variety of sounds, including brown noise. Adjust the oscillator settings to generate low-frequency noise, then further tweak the parameters to create the desired 6 dB per octave decrease.


Exploring Brown Noise in Music and Sound Design


While the infamous gastrointestinal effects of the brown noise may be pure fiction, there are still many legitimate uses for it in music and sound design. For example, it can:



  • Serve as a bass-heavy background in electronic music compositions

  • Act as an organic texture in foley and soundscaping

  • Provide relief from tinnitus by masking ringing frequencies


In conclusion, while the urban legend surrounding the mystical brown noise might be entertaining, it is ultimately a myth. However, generating and using the sound itself has plenty of practical real-world applications, making it a fascinating frequency to explore for musicians, sound designers, and anyone interested in sound frequencies.


bottom of page