Limits for the Detection of Binaural Beats

Abstract

This study investigates the probability of detecting binaural beats as a function of the frequency of the standard signal used (f1) and of the dichotic frequency difference (|f1−f2|). The present findings indicate that the upper frequency limit for the perception of binaural beats depends upon the dichotic frequency differences employed, the psychophysical procedure used, and the criteria for a beat threshold. The probability of beat detections was maximal at 500 Hz, and decreased as frequency increased up to 1500 Hz. No reliable pattern of beat detections was observed above 1500 Hz. Binaural beats were obtained with both “fused” and “nonfused” dichotically presented signals. Implications for a general model were discussed.