Ghost Tones is a unique psychoacoustic synthesizer that transforms your MIDI input into a fascinating auditory illusion. Instead of playing the note you press, it generates two random notes that combine in your ear to create the perception of the intended pitch. This process produces a sound that exists only in the listener’s mind, offering a distinctive experience that challenges traditional sound synthesis.

The synth operates by exploiting how our ears interpret sound through a phenomenon known as Combination Tones or Otoacoustic Emissions. While spectrum analysis will reveal that the actual note you play is never produced, your hearing perceives it clearly due to the interaction of the generated tones. This effect is subtle and works best at higher volumes and frequencies when the listening environment is quiet, making it a delicate yet intriguing tool for exploring the boundaries of auditory perception.

Ghost Tones invites musicians and sound designers to experiment with the inner workings of human hearing and psychoacoustics. It reveals how our ears do more than just receive sound—they actively contribute to what we hear. By engaging with this synth, users gain insight into the complex relationship between sound production and auditory perception, making it a compelling addition for those interested in innovative sound design and experimental music.