TL;DR
Phantas is a browser app that pairs split-channel audio with screen-driven light to produce binaural and visual stimulation using the Web Audio API. The interface requires headphones, asks users to maximize screen brightness, and provides session logging fields for pre/post self-assessment.
What happened
A web application called Phantas exposes a browser-based engine that combines stereo audio and on-screen flashes to create binaural and optical stimulation. The app routes different frequencies to the left and right channels to form binaural beats and offers on-screen "optical driving" that asks users to set brightness to 100%, close their eyes, and position the screen to fill their visual field. The interface lists several presets and labels — for example, "ALPHA (10HZ) – PASSIVE OBSERVATION" with a note saying it is "Best For: Routine Coding, 'Autopilot' Work" and an instruction to avoid forcing thoughts. Controls shown include Frequency (Hz), Noise Floor (%), and Master Gain (%), with example values of 10.0 Hz, 15% noise floor, and 30% master gain. A session form records pre- and post-session subjective states on a 1–5 scale, optional field notes, and an email field for submitting session data. The site links to a section labeled View Protocol & Research.
Why it matters
- It packages binaural and visual stimulation into a browser-based tool accessible without native software.
- The app requires potentially intense sensory input (headphones and full-screen brightness), making safety and usage guidance important.
- Built-in session logging could help users track subjective experiences over time, though outcomes are not detailed in the interface.
- As a Web Audio API project, it demonstrates how modern browsers can combine audio and visual timing for experimental tools.
Key facts
- Phantas runs in a web browser and uses the Web Audio API (stated in the product title).
- Stereo audio is required; frequencies are split between left and right channels to produce binaural beats.
- Optical driving instructions ask users to set screen brightness to 100%, close their eyes, and position the screen to fill the visual field.
- A preset labeled ALPHA (10HZ) is listed as 'PASSIVE OBSERVATION' and described as 'Best For: Routine Coding, "Autopilot" Work.'
- Interface controls shown include Frequency (Hz), Noise Floor (%), and Master Gain (%); example values: 10.0 Hz, 15% noise floor, 30% master gain.
- The app provides a session form that captures pre-session and post-session state on scales from 1 to 5, optional field notes, and a user email field for submission.
- There is a visible link or section titled 'VIEW PROTOCOL & RESEARCH' on the site.
- The source URL is https://phantas.io/ and the page was published at 2025-12-28T20:38:09+00:00.
What to watch next
- Whether the site provides medical or safety warnings about photosensitivity or seizure risk: not confirmed in the source.
- What evidence or peer-reviewed research supports the claimed modes and presets: not confirmed in the source.
- How submitted session data and email addresses are stored, shared, or used: not confirmed in the source.
Quick glossary
- Binaural beat: An auditory phenomenon created when two slightly different frequencies are presented separately to each ear; the brain perceives a beat corresponding to the frequency difference.
- Strobe / Optical driving: Rapid flashing or pulsed light used to stimulate the visual system; in software tools this typically involves timed changes in screen brightness or color.
- Web Audio API: A browser-based programming interface for creating, manipulating, and routing audio directly in web applications.
- Frequency (Hz): The number of cycles per second of a periodic signal, measured in hertz (Hz); used here to describe audio oscillations or beat rates.
- Master gain: A control that adjusts the overall output amplitude (volume) of an audio signal chain.
Reader FAQ
Do I need headphones to use Phantas?
Yes. The interface specifies that stereo audio and headphones are essential.
How should I position my screen and eyes?
The app instructs users to set brightness to 100%, close their eyes, and position the screen to fill their entire visual field.
Does Phantas claim to improve focus or cognitive performance?
The interface lists a preset labelled 'Best For: Routine Coding, "Autopilot" Work,' but any efficacy claims or measured outcomes are not confirmed in the source.
Is there published research supporting the tool?
The site includes a 'VIEW PROTOCOL & RESEARCH' link, but details of peer-reviewed validation are not confirmed in the source.
Can I log and submit session data?
Yes. The app shows forms for pre/post session state on a 1–5 scale, optional field notes, an email field, and a submit action.
VIEW PROTOCOL & RESEARCH→ Operating Protocol STEREO AUDIO: Headphones essential. Frequencies split left/right to create the binaural beat. OPTICAL DRIVING: Set brightness to 100%. Close eyes. Position screen to fill…
Sources
- Show HN: Phantas – A browser-based binaural strobe engine (Web Audio API)
- A browser-based binaural strobe engine (Web Audio API)
- How I built a browser-based "Binaural Strobe" using the …
- hckr news – Hacker News sorted by time
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