White noise is more or less a misnomer, because while white noise is basically a stochastic and random background noise (whether it is of a natural or man-made natural), it is usually used to help relax or calm the person listening to it by providing a gentle and subtle distraction. White noise sound machines are designed for the purpose of generating such types of 'noise', and like most products out there, come in a variety of designs and functionality.
A white noise sound machine usually comes with some basic standard settings, adjustable via a control knob or buttons, which lets the user select from a number of settings such as the volume, frequency and type of white noise.
One particularly interesting use of white noise sound machines is to produce sounds (perhaps other noises, or sounds like waterfall, or the wind) that mask daily noises like traffic, animals and other people. It is not so much the actual white noise that is produced which provides the effect, but rather in re-focusing the attention of the listener onto something less stressful. People who work third shifts, or have the medical condition tinnitus, and even people who are trying to hide their conversation from prying ears find them very useful.
Other than around the house, white noise sound machines are also very effective in the college dorm or office. Anywhere where white noise can be used to mask noise and distraction (like keyboard tapping or gossip) while someone may be studying, or doing work which requires them to concentrate, a white noise sound machine will prove to be invaluable. It can even be found in the consultation rooms of therapists.
To experience what a white noise sound machine can do for your mental health and well-being, or to create a moment away from the daily grind of the world right in your home, try the Sleep mate 980, or any of a number and range of models from Sound Machines Direct.
Copyright 2007, All Rights Reserved. Reproduction without the written permission of Sound Machines Direct is expressly forbidden.
Labels: relaxing sound, sound machine, sound masking, white noise
