Q: How does Hemi-Sync work?
A: When two sounds of nearly similar frequencies are presented, one to each ear, with stereo headphones or speakers, the brain integrates the two signals, producing a sensation of a third sound. This third sound, called a binaural beat, encourages brainwave activity that matches the Hemi-Sync sound frequency patterns. This is called the Frequency Following Response. For example, a Hemi-Sync relaxation tape encourages the brain to follow the frequencies on the tape, resulting in brain waves that are naturally characteristic of a relaxed state. [top]

Q: Is Hemi-Sync on all the tapes and CDs?
A: Definitely, yes. [top]

Q: Are all titles available in both tape and CD format?
A: No. The Catalog includes a separate listing of everything available on CD. The item number is another place to look. If the Item # ends with a U, that means tape format. If the Item # ends with a C or CN, that means CD format. [top]

Q: Are the Hemi-Sync frequencies the same on each title ?
A: Definitely, no. The Hemi-Sync "recipe" differs, depending on the purpose of the tape or CD. For example, a sleep tape has frequencies to help you sleep; a concentration tape has frequencies to help you maintain alert, focused attention. [top]

Q: How long are Hemi-Sync tapes and CDs?
A: Most are between 30 and 40 minutes long. Timing varies to accomplish the purpose of each listening experience. [top]

Q: Are Hemi-Sync products available in other languages?
A: Yes, many titles are available in French and Spanish. When Hemi-Sync products are produced in other languages, this Web site will announce the availability. Of course, there is no language barrier to interfere with the benefits of the many nonverbal titles, and these are widely used around the world. [top]

Q: Can someone with hearing loss benefit from Hemi-Sync?
A: Yes. Doctors and individuals with impaired hearing tell us that the frequencies are effectively carried to the brain by the bones in the ear canal. [top]

Q: Is Hemi-Sync like hypnosis?
A: No. Hypnosis is an induced, sleep-like condition of high suggestibility in which control is relinquished to the hypnotist. Hemi- Sync is designed to leave control in the hands of the listener. In this sense, it's somewhat related to self-hypnosis. Hemi-Sync does not "make" you do anything. It simply creates an effect that helps you move into a certain state, providing that you relax and are open to responding to the Hemi- Sync process. [top]

Q: Are Hemi-Sync tapes subliminal?
A: No. "Subliminal" suggests that words are recorded below audible level, often at high speed, with the intention of embedding a particular thought in the mind of the listener. (It has never been scientifically demonstrated that this works.) Hemi-Sync sound frequency patterns, although recorded at a sub-audible level, are not verbal messages and are not recorded at high speed. Their purpose is to assist you into the state you want to be in. [top]

Q: Some Hemi-Sync tapes have sections in which the voice is too low for me to understand. Isn't that subliminal? Or is it a defect in the tape?
A: No to both questions. By the time the voice becomes very low, you are in an extremely relaxed state, perhaps even asleep. The words you don't understand are simply a repetition of earlier sections of the recording. They are repeated at very low volume while you are resting for purposes of reinforcement, without jarring you or interfering with your relaxation. [top]

Q: Is Hemi-Sync recommended for children?
A: Sure, all nonverbal recordings are fine for children to listen to. With verbally guided titles, listen yourself first and decide, based on the child's maturity level. [top]

Equipment

Q: What kind of player should I use to listen to Hemi-Sync?
A: Any moderately priced stereo player with a range from 50hz to 16khz is fine. You don't need top-of-the-line equipment. [top]

Q: Is it better to listen to Hemi-Sync with earphones or with speakers?
A: You can use either. The greater the separation between the sounds introduced into each ear, the stronger the Hemi-Sync effect. We generally recommend using earphones for experiential exercises, because earphones maximize the sound separation and tend to block out exterior noise. Speakers are also fine, and in fact may be preferable when you are playing Metamusic or other nonverbal titles as background while engaged in another activity. Be in the same room as the speakers. To enhance the separation between the sounds, it is recommended to position yourself between the speakers, when possible. [top]

Q: How can I use earphones if I'm only comfortable lying on my stomach or side?
A: Use speakers, or try "earbuds," which are designed to fit comfortably into rather than outside of the ear. They are inexpensive and generally available at stores that sell stereo equipment. [top]

Q: How can I go to sleep listening to Hemi-Sync without getting tangled up in the wires during the night?
A: You can listen through speakers, one placed on either side of your bed. [top]

Cautions

While many of our audio products contribute to wellness, they are not intended to replace medical diagnosis and treatment. DO NOT listen to Hemi-Sync while driving or operating heavy equipment, or with other devices that may influence brain-wave activity. If you have a tendency towards seizures or auditory disorders, DO NOT listen to Hemi-Sync without first consulting your physician. DO NOT reproduce Hemi-Sync products or use with Dolby or other noise-reduction systems. [top]

Q: Why am I not supposed to listen to Hemi-Sync in my car?
A: When you need to pay attention to the road, it's risky to move into other states of consciousness. [top]

Q: Why am I not supposed to listen to Hemi-Sync if I have a tendency towards seizures?
A: Seizures result from abnormal brainwave activity. Hemi- Sync's influence on brainwave activity might not be beneficial for someone with that tendency. [top]

Q: Is there a problem in making copies of Hemi-Sync tapes for friends?
A: Definitely, yes. There are two serious problems. First of all, Hemi-Sync tapes are copyrighted, so you would be breaking federal laws and liable to prosecution. Secondly, you wouldn't be doing your friends any good. Copying erodes the very delicate sound frequency patterns, and results in an ineffective tape. [top]

Series

Q: What's the difference between Human Plus^® and Mind Food^® and Metamusic^®?
A: Human Plus recordings teach you how to activate the benefit of the particular title whenever and wherever you want, without listening at the moment when you want the effect. Most Mind Food titles give you the experience/benefit while you are listening. For example, Mind Food Concentration helps your brain move into a sharply concentrated state while you are listening. Human Plus Attention teaches you how to move into that state when you are not listening to the tape. Metamusic contains music and Hemi-Sync, never words. [top]

Q: What tapes will enable me to have an out-of-body experience?
A: We can never "guarantee" an OBE. It depends on so many factors unique to every individual, like personal beliefs, fear, etc. Some people tell us that they go out of body when listening to a recording designed for a totally different purpose. The Gateway Experience series teaches how to shift consciousness and includes three exercises that provide practice in separating from the physical body. Please understand that Gateway Experience is a course in developing and exploring consciousness: it is not an OBE course. [top]

The Listening Experience

Q: What if I fall asleep while listening?
A: That's fine. Many Hemi-Sync exercises help you move into a hypnagogic state, the borderline between deep relaxation and sleep. It's not a problem if you slip over the border. Your brain will "get it" with or without your conscious awareness. If you want to be aware of the entire verbal content of the exercise, just listen once without earphones while sitting in a not-too-comfortable chair. Thereafter you'll know what's on the tape whether you fall asleep or not. [top]

Q: I hear a hissing noise on some tapes. Is that a defect ? Should I remove it with the Dolby function on my stereo?
A: No and no. What you're hearing is "pink noise" (sometimes described as a swishing or tooth-brushing sound). It is a combination of all the frequencies the human ear can perceive, with the higher and lower frequencies adjusted to match in volume. Pink noise enhances perception of the Hemi-Sync sound frequency patterns, and therefore plays a valuable role on certain Hemi-Sync tapes. Dolby tries to filter out the pink noise. [top]

Q: Am I supposed to "see" things when I listen to Hemi-Sync?
A: "Supposed to" just doesn't apply. It's important to remember that there are many ways of perceiving, and visualizing mental pictures is only one of them. Many people experience a physical response to Hemi-Sync and become aware of different body sensations; others may have sensations of hearing or tasting, or simply "knowing." Enjoy your own experience, whatever it is. [top]

Q: How do I know if I'm getting the intended effect?
A: Please keep in mind that everyone is unique; your Hemi-Sync experience is not the same as anyone else's because each individual brings something different to the listening experience. In fact, each time you listen to a particular exercise, your experience may be quite different. Just relax with trust that your experience is right for you at this time. [top]

Q: Is Hemi-Sync beneficial for people who are experienced meditators?
A: Definitely. Many long-term meditators tell us that when they play nonverbal Hemi-Sync as background, they move into a meditative state more quickly and surely, they seem to "go deeper," and they are able to sustain the meditative state longer. [top]

Q: Once in a while I feel not quite awake and alert after listening to a tape. What can I do?
A: Remember, certain Hemi-Sync products are specifically designed to leave you asleep. However, if a non-sleep recording leaves you feeling a little "spacey," here are some grounding techniques to try: slowly count down from 10 to 1; drink cold water; splash cool water on your face and neck; run cold water on your wrists; weather permitting, walk barefoot outdoors while you breathe deeply. [top]

Q: How many times do I need to listen before I get the effect or benefit?
A: Generally, the first time you listen you will feel the influence of the Hemi-Sync. It's important to remember, though, that some of the products are designed to be "learning systems" and need to be listened to more times to reinforce/anchor the learning. All of the Human Plus titles and the Gateway Experience series are in this category, and specific listening instructions are included with your purchase of these items. [top]

Ordering

Q: How can I order?
A: You begin an order by going to the  Catalog and choosing products. Then, add each item that you are interested in to your shopping cart. [top]