How sound can tune your brain
Last updated June 2026
Brainwave entrainment is the idea that rhythmic sound can nudge the brain's electrical activity toward a chosen frequency — and with it, a mental state. Here's how it works, what the evidence says, and how Entrain puts it to use.
The two methods
Binaural beats
Play one frequency in each ear and your brain perceives a third "beat" at the difference. Needs headphones. The classic entrainment technique.
Read more →
Isochronic tones
A single tone switched rapidly on and off at the target frequency. Strong, distinct pulses — and no headphones required.
Read more →
Binaural vs. isochronic
Which technique should you use, and when? A side-by-side comparison of strength, convenience, and best use cases.
Compare →
Brainwave frequencies
The map of the whole spectrum — which frequency does what, and how to choose a target for sleep, calm, focus, or energy.
See the map →
The five brainwave bands
Each band is a range of frequencies tied to a characteristic state of mind. Tap any band for the detail.
A note on the evidence
Brainwave entrainment is an active and promising area of research, but it is not a cure and the science is still developing. Studies show measurable effects for some people on relaxation, perceived anxiety, focus, and sleep onset — while other studies are mixed, and individual responses vary widely. We think the honest framing is: it's a low-risk, drug-free tool that many people find genuinely useful, and Entrain gives you precise control to discover what works for you. It is not a substitute for medical care.
Further reading: Brainwave entrainment · Binaural beats · Neural oscillation
Put the science to work.
Entrain turns every one of these frequencies into a session you can start in a tap.