The Estes Method is a paranormal investigation technique designed to enhance communication with spirits through sensory deprivation and spirit box responses. Developed in 2016 at the Stanley Hotel in Estes Park, Colorado, by paranormal investigators Karl Pfeiffer, Connor Randall, and Michelle Tate, the method was created to eliminate bias and interference during ghost investigations.

How It Works

The Estes Method combines two key elements:

A Spirit Box – A radio scanning device that quickly cycles through AM/FM frequencies, producing bursts of white noise and occasional words or phrases believed to be spirit communication.

Sensory Deprivation – The listener wears noise-canceling headphones connected to the spirit box and a blindfold (or keeps their eyes closed) to block external stimuli.

Step-by-Step Process

One person (the receiver) wears noise-canceling headphones plugged into the spirit box and puts on a blindfold.

Other investigators (the questioners) ask questions aloud to any potential spirits.

The receiver cannot hear the questions and simply repeats any words or phrases they hear from the spirit box.

If the words spoken by the receiver seem to directly answer the investigators' questions, it is considered possible spirit communication.

Why It’s Unique

Unlike traditional ghost-hunting techniques, where investigators may unintentionally "lead" responses, the Estes Method aims to eliminate bias and external influence. The receiver does not know what is being asked, so they cannot subconsciously tailor their responses to fit expectations.

Reported Results

Many investigators claim to receive direct and intelligent responses to questions.

Some sessions have produced coherent conversations or even responses that seem to provide new historical information about haunted locations. Some receivers experience emotional responses, pressure, or tingling sensations, suggesting a spirit might be interacting with them.

Criticism & Skepticism

Some skeptics argue that the responses are random radio fragments rather than true spirit communication. The power of suggestion may play a role, as listeners might interpret garbled words as meaningful phrases. It is difficult to prove that the spirit box is not just picking up stray radio transmissions rather than paranormal voices.

Famous Uses

• The Stanley Hotel (Colorado, USA) – The birthplace of the Estes Method, with documented eerie responses.
• The Conjuring House (Rhode Island, USA) – Investigators have claimed intelligent spirit interactions using this technique.
• The USS North Carolina (North Carolina, USA) – Paranormal teams have recorded chilling responses related to the ship’s history.

Final Thoughts



The Estes Method remains one of the most compelling and widely used techniques in paranormal research today. While skeptics debate its validity, many ghost hunters swear by its effectiveness in creating unfiltered, direct communication with the unknown.