SynapSeq

SynapSeq is an efficient engine for brainwave entrainment, designed to generate audio sequences that guide brainwave states using a simple, human-readable text format. It is a command-line tool (CLI) that can be easily integrated into other projects and workflows. SynapSeq helps users create custom soundscapes for meditation, relaxation, focus, and altered states of consciousness.

You can install SynapSeq easily using Winget (Windows), Homebrew (macOS/Linux), or by downloading a precompiled binary.

The latest precompiled binaries for Windows, macOS, or Linux can be found on the Releases page.

You can explore a wide variety of ready-to-use sequences at the SynapSeq Hub, a centralized repository of community-contributed sequences for meditation, focus, relaxation, and more.

Write your sequence in a .spsq file using the documented syntax, then run:

synapseq my-sequence.spsq output.wav

You can also play sequences directly without generating a file using the -play flag (requires ffplay to be installed):

synapseq -play my-sequence.spsq

See the documentation for detailed syntax and examples.

SynapSeq outputs 16-bit stereo WAV files by default. You can also export directly to MP3 format using the -mp3 flag, or pipe raw audio to other tools for playback or conversion.

At the moment, there are no plans to develop an official Graphical User Interface (GUI) for SynapSeq. The community is free to create GUIs that use SynapSeq as their engine.

Binaural beats occur when two slightly different frequencies are played in each ear. The brain perceives a third "beat" at the difference frequency, which can help entrain brainwaves to a desired state. Headphones are required for binaural beats to work.

Monaural beats are created by mixing two frequencies together before playback. The resulting beat is physically present in the audio and can be perceived without headphones, though headphones may enhance the effect.

Isochronic tones are single tones that pulse on and off at regular intervals. This rhythmic stimulation can entrain brainwaves and is effective with or without headphones.

• Binaural beats: Best for deep meditation, relaxation, and creativity.
• Monaural beats: Good for general entrainment, can be used without headphones.
• Isochronic tones: Effective for alertness, focus, and can be used with speakers.

• Binaural beats: Yes, headphones are required.
• Monaural beats: Optional, but recommended for best results.
• Isochronic tones: Not required.

• Delta (0.5–4 Hz): Deep sleep, healing
• Theta (4–8 Hz): Meditation, creativity
• Alpha (8–13 Hz): Relaxed alertness, learning
• Beta (13–30 Hz): Focus, active thinking
• Gamma (30+ Hz): Peak concentration

For most people, brainwave entrainment is considered safe when used responsibly. However, some individuals (such as those with epilepsy, heart conditions, or neurological disorders) should consult a medical professional before using any entrainment software.

General tips:

• Do not use while driving or operating machinery.
• Stop immediately if you feel discomfort, dizziness, or unusual sensations.
• Use moderate volume and avoid excessive session lengths.
• Brainwave entrainment is not a substitute for medical treatment.

Brainwave entrainment is a subtle process that varies from person to person. Several factors can affect your experience:

Equipment & Technical Issues:

• Headphones required for binaural beats (decent quality)
• Use appropriate frequencies for your goal
• Avoid low-quality formats (use high-bitrate MP3 or keep WAV)
• Check amplitude and volume settings

Tips for better results:

• Experiment with different methods (binaural, monaural, isochronic)
• Try different frequencies and durations
• Combine with meditation or relaxation techniques
• Be patient and approach with an open mind

No. There is no scientific evidence that brainwave entrainment can reproduce or simulate the effects of drugs, medications, or psychoactive substances. Brainwave entrainment can help with relaxation, focus, meditation, and sleep, but cannot induce drug-like states.

Scientific research on brainwave entrainment has produced mixed results. Some studies suggest benefits for relaxation, focus, meditation, and sleep, but effects are generally modest and vary from person to person. There is no broad scientific consensus that brainwave entrainment produces strong or universal effects.

Yes. SynapSeq can be integrated in two main ways: either as a standalone CLI tool or as a native Go library. SynapSeq is licensed under GPL v2.

You may freely use the CLI or Go library in any project, but if you modify or distribute the SynapSeq source code itself, your changes must also be released under GPL v2.

Yes, you can sell audio tracks generated with SynapSeq. However, you are responsible for ensuring that your sequence files and any background sounds used do not infringe on third-party copyrights.

SynapSeq can export directly to MP3 format using the -mp3 flag. Important: You must have ffmpeg installed and available in your system PATH for this to work.

synapseq -mp3 my-sequence.spsq output.mp3

Note: MP3 is a lossy format that reduces audio quality due to compression. For archival purposes or maximum fidelity, consider keeping WAV files alongside MP3 versions. Use high bitrate (at least 320 kbps) for best results.