What Is the Missing Fundamental?

Name: Can You Hear 220 Hz Without Playing It?
Uploaded: 2026-11-10T23:00:20-08:00
Duration: 42 s
Description: Listen to a 220 Hz reference, then hear what happens when only its higher harmonics play.

Listen to a 220 Hz reference, then hear what happens when only its higher harmonics play.

The second sound contains 440, 660 and 880 Hz. Together those tones form a pattern that repeats 220 times per second. Some listeners hear a pitch near 220 Hz even though the 220 Hz component is absent from the source.

People can hear the same test differently, and playback can affect what comes through. Listen at a comfortable level.

Read the listening cues

0:04. Hear the 220 Hz reference.
0:10. Hear 440, 660 and 880 Hz together.
0:24. Compare the two sounds again.

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Read the study on differences between listeners

Compare with the first test, where the 220 Hz tone stays in the mix.