Unlike a standard TENS unit which produces a simple, repetitive square or pulse wave, an audio estim system works on a Source -> Amplifier -> Electrode model.
The result is that the electricity mimics the audio waveform exactly. If the audio track has a smooth, rolling sine wave, the sensation is smooth and "thumpy." If the audio is a sharp, jagged square wave, the sensation is prickly and intense. estim audio generator top
For many enthusiasts, the "top" generator is the one integrated into the hardware ecosystem. The E-Stim Systems 2B unit is widely considered the gold standard. While it is hardware, it functions as a real-time generator. Unlike a standard TENS unit which produces a
Currently, the community’s "top" list is a split decision between two philosophies: The result is that the electricity mimics the
Standard audio signals swing between positive and negative voltage (AC). However, if there is any DC offset (common in cheap sound cards), it can cause skin irritation or burns under the electrodes after prolonged use. High-end estim units include capacitors to block DC current.