General

Q:In a nutshell, what is Hemi-Sync®?
A: Hemi-Sync is a scientifically based and clinically proven "audio-guidance" technology that uses sound to influence brain-wave activity. This patented, and highly sophisticated technology is backed by over 40 years of research. For more details, see the expanded explanation in What is Hemi-Sync?

Q:How does Hemi-Sync work?
A: The audio-guidance process works quite simply by sending different sounds (tones) to each ear by stereo headphones. The two hemispheres of the brain then act in unison to "hear" a third signal - the difference between the two tones. This is not an actual sound, but an electrical signal that can only be perceived within the brain by both brain hemispheres working together. The result is a focused, whole-brain state known as hemispheric synchronization, or "Hemi-Sync" - an optimal condition for improving human performance.

Q:Is Hemi-Sync on all the tapes and CDs?
A:Yes.

Q:Are all titles available in both tape and CD format?
A: No. However, we have a separate listing of everything available on CD.

Q:Are the Hemi-Sync frequencies the same on each title ?
A: No. The Hemi-Sync process has evolved into a sophisticated multi-layering of Hemi-Sync signals - "designer mixes" of sound frequencies, fashioned to be optimally effective for a given application. Naturally, Hemi-Sync sleep products incorporate predominately delta frequencies; learning products predominately beta and so forth. However these designer mixes are supplemented with special sound frequencies, which enable the desired result. This is the "key" to the effectiveness of Hemi-Sync.

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.

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.

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.

Q: Are Hemi-Sync products subliminal?
A: No. Subliminal recordings have the intention of embedding a particular thought in the mind of the listener by recording words at sub audible levels, often at high speeds. Hemi-Sync sound patterns, although recorded at a sub audible level, are not verbal messages and are not recorded at high speed. The purpose of Hemi-Sync sound patterns is to assist you in obtaining the focused brain state you desire.

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 low in volume, you are in an extremely relaxed state or perhaps asleep. The words you may not understand are simply a repetition of earlier sections of the recording. They are repeated for purposes of reinforcement, at a very low volume so as not to interfere with your state of relaxation.

Q: Is Hemi-Sync recommended for children?
A: All nonverbal recordings are fine for children. With verbally guided titles, we recommend you listen first and then decide based on your child's level of maturity.

Q: How does Hemi-Sync® Compare To Other Products?
A: We occasionally receive inquiries from individuals desiring to know how Hemi-Sync compares to other brain-wave products they may have heard about. It would be inappropriate for us to comment on specific products or technologies but following are some observations we can make with regard to Hemi-Sync:

Q: What kind of equipment is required to listen to Hemi-Sync?
A: A moderately priced stereo player (tape or CD) will work fine. Top-of-the-line equipment is not required for Hemi-Sync to work. Headphones are recommended for best results and a good set of headphones will contribute to your enjoyment. Headphones that enclose the ear are preferred to reduce ambient room noise and provide a more distraction-free experience.

Q: Will conventional speakers work as well as headphones?
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.

Q: How can I use earphones if I'm only comfortable lying on my stomach or side? And, what about getting tangled in the wires?
A: You may wish to try "earbuds", which are designed to fit comfortably inside the ear. Earbuds are available at many stores that sell stereo equipment. Alternatively, use conventional speakers, placed on either side of your bed or try a stereo sleep pillow.

Q: Why am I not supposed to listen to Hemi-Sync in my car?
A: When driving, you should pay attention to the road. It's not advisable to move into other states of consciousness.

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.

Q: Is there a problem in making copies of Hemi-Sync tapes for friends?
A:Yes. Hemi-Sync products are copyrighted. You would be breaking federal laws and therefore be liable to prosecution.

Q: What's the difference between Human Plus®, Mind Food® and Metamusic®?
A: Human Plus recordings teach you how to activate the benefit of a particular selection whenever you wish without listening at the particular moment when you desire the intended effect. For example, the Human Plus Attention exercise teaches you how to move into a highly focused state when not listening to the Attention exercise. Most Mind Food titles provide the experience/benefit while you are listening. For example, the Mind Food title, Concentration, helps your brain move into a highly focused state of concentration while listening. Metamusic selections contain music and Hemi-Sync with no verbal guidance.

Q: What tape/CD will enable me to have an out-of-body experience?
A: An OBE cannot be guaranteed. Your ability to experience an OBE depends on many factors unique to every individual, like personal beliefs, possible fear barriers, etc. If you are interested in an OBE, we recommend the Gateway Experience. You may or may not experience an OBE. However, the Gateway Experience is designed to gently lead you into profound states of expanded awareness and contribute to the development of your human potential on many levels.

Q: What if I fall asleep while listening?
A: That's fine. The benefits of Hemi-Sync are achieved with or without your conscious awareness. Many Hemi-Sync exercises help you achieve a hypnogogic state, that borderline state between deep relaxation and sleep so it's possible you may drift into sleep. If you want to familiarize yourself with the verbal content of an exercise, listen once, without headphones, while seated in a chair.

Q: I hear a hissing noise on some tapes. Is that a defect ? Should I use the Dolby® function on my stereo?
A: No to both questions. What you are hearing is "pink noise" (sometimes described as a swishing sound). It is a combination of all the frequencies the human ear can perceive, with higher and lower frequencies adjusted to be equal in volume. Pink noise enhances the perception of the Hemi-Sync sound patterns, and therefore plays a valuable role on certain Hemi-Sync products. Dolby® nosie reduction attempts to filter out the pink noise. Therefore, it is important not to use Dolby®, or other noise reduction systems, when listening to Hemi-Sync audio products on tape.

Q: Am I supposed to "see" things when I listen to Hemi-Sync?
A: "Supposed to" really doesn't apply. There are many ways of perceiving; visualizing is only one of them. Many people experience a physical response to Hemi-Sync and become aware of different body sensations; other people have sensations of hearing or tasting, or simply "knowing." Enjoy your experience, whatever it is.

Q: How do I know if I'm getting the intended effect?
A: Everyone is unique. Your Hemi-Sync experience may differ from the experience of others. In fact, your experience may be different each time you listen to a particular exercise. Just relax and trust that your experience is right for you at the time.

Q: Is Hemi-Sync beneficial for experienced meditators?
A: Yes. Many long-term meditators report that Hemi-Sync helps them move more quickly and reliably into a meditative state. Experienced meditators also report that they seem to "go deeper," and sustain the meditative state longer when using Hemi-Sync.

Q: What if I don't feel awake and alert after listening to Hemi-Sync?
A: Certain Hemi-Sync products are designed to leave you in a sleep state. 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.

Q: How many times should I listen to an exercise to get the effect or benefit?
A: Generally, you will feel the influence of Hemi-Sync the first time you listen. However, some products are designed as a training series. These products typically work best when you listen multiple times to reinforce and anchor the intended benefit. All Human Plus selections and the Gateway Experience series fall into this category. Specific listening instructions are included with your purchase of these items.