Grey Noise
Balanced for the ear
Noise for Tinnitus Relief
Updated 6 July 2026
Sound masking for tinnitus uses steady background noise — often grey, white or violet noise — to make the ringing less noticeable by blending it into a broader sound. This free player loops those masking sounds so you can find what eases your tinnitus most. It is a comfort aid, not a medical treatment.
How sound masking helps tinnitus
Masking works by adding gentle background noise so the tinnitus stands out less against it, which can make the ringing easier to ignore — especially in quiet rooms or at night. It does not cure tinnitus; it makes it more comfortable to live with in the moment.
Which noise is best for tinnitus?
It is individual. Many people use grey or white noise, while those with high-pitched tinnitus often prefer bright violet noise that sits in the same range. Set the volume just loud enough to soften the ringing, not to cover it completely.
Partial masking vs total masking
Total masking turns the noise up until the ringing is completely drowned out; partial masking keeps it a step quieter. Sound-therapy practice, as described by the American Tinnitus Association, generally favours the partial approach: set the masking sound slightly below your tinnitus, so it takes the edge off the ringing rather than burying everything in noise. Total masking can work in the moment, but many people find it more fatiguing over long stretches — you trade the ringing for a wall of sound. In this player, that means raising the volume only until the ringing softens, then stopping. As elsewhere on this page, this is a relaxation aid, not a treatment: for new or changing tinnitus, an audiologist is the right first stop.
Sound masking for tinnitus: common questions
What noise is best for tinnitus?
There is no single best sound — grey, white and violet noise are all commonly used. People with high-pitched tinnitus often find violet noise most effective. Experiment at a low volume and keep whichever makes the ringing least noticeable.
Can white noise cure tinnitus?
No. Sound masking can make tinnitus less noticeable and easier to live with, but it does not cure it. For persistent or worsening tinnitus, see an audiologist or doctor for proper assessment.