What is violet noise?
Violet noise, also called purple noise, is random noise whose power rises steeply with frequency: by definition, about six decibels more for each octave up, twice the slope of blue noise. That leaves very little low end, so it sounds like a fine, high hiss. It is the mirror image of brown noise, whose power falls by the same amount per octave.
What this page plays
This violet noise is made in your browser as it plays, from white noise with its low end cut and its treble lifted. It needs no download and starts at once. It is one of the sharpest sounds on the site, so start quietly.
Violet noise vs blue noise
Both lean toward the treble. On paper, violet noise rises twice as steeply as blue noise, so it should sound thinner and sharper. The two versions on this site are close, so listen to each at a low volume and keep the one you find comfortable.
Violet noise vs brown noise
Brown noise and violet noise are opposites. Brown noise is a deep rumble, with its energy in the low frequencies; violet noise is a fine hiss, with its energy at the top. Some people like the contrast, and the full mixer can play the two together.
Listening at a comfortable level
Bright noise can seem louder than it is. Start with your device’s volume low, raise it only until the sound is comfortable, and take breaks from headphones. The volume control on this page isn’t a sound-level meter, so let your ears decide.
Benefits
- Plays in one tap, free, with no ads and no account
- Made in your browser, with nothing to download
- A fine, high sound with almost no bass
- A timer under Play that fades it out or stops it at a set time
- Mix it with a deeper sound in the full mixer
Common Uses
- A bright background sound while you work or read
- Pairing with brown noise for a low and high blend
- Comparing noise colors side by side
- A thin top layer over other sounds in the full mixer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is violet noise the same as purple noise?
Yes. Violet noise and purple noise are two names for the same sound.
What does violet noise sound like?
A fine, high hiss with almost no bass, sharper than white noise.
Why do people play violet noise?
Some people like it as a bright background sound, or next to a deeper sound such as brown noise. Others find it too sharp for long listening. It comes down to preference.
How loud should I play it?
Quietly. Bright sounds can seem louder than they are, so start with your device’s volume low and raise it only until it is comfortable. The volume control on this page isn’t a sound-level meter.
Is it free?
Yes. It plays in your browser for free, with no ads and no account needed, and it is made on your device as it plays, so there is nothing to download.
