Ticking clock
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0Ticking clock
"Ticking Clock" is the soundscape of an even ticking of a mechanical wristwatch or table clock: a clear "tick-tock" at 1–2 Hz (typically 18,000–28,800 half-oscillations per hour depending on calibre), overall loudness about 35–45 dB, plus a barely perceptible long resonance from the case. Spectrally a narrowband high-frequency sound with a peak around 1–4 kHz.
Clock ticking is arguably the most "hypnotic" of all domestic sounds. Aaron and colleagues (Cognition, 2010) showed that listening to a steady ticking speeds up subjective perception of real time — listeners "feel" more time has passed than really has. This effect is useful for two opposite tasks: (1) meditation and sleep, because subjective "time stretching" helps relax; (2) writing and focus work, because rhythmic ticking acts as a "productivity metronome" and prevents postponement.
Additionally a mechanical clock tick carries a strong cultural association with "grandmother's house," cosiness and old Europe. Use this track for writing (especially classical and historical prose), for podcasts on craft, history and horology, for breath-focused meditation (one inhale-exhale cycle = ~6 ticks), for people with anxiety (rhythmic low sound calms), and for adolescents and adults with ADHD. Pairs with Public Library, Rain on Windowsill, Cozy Fireplace. Suitable for sleep — but not for everyone; ticking wakes some people.
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ReduxSound v1.0.0
Ambient sound mixer for relaxation and focus