Pricing and availability

Average Price: $180

Budget/Beginner

$249

$700+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Electro-Harmonix Random Tone Generator". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 22, 2026.

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

Dive into the creative abyss with the Electro-Harmonix Random Tone Generator, a modern homage to the quirky and distinctive sounds of the 1980s. Not just another piece in your setup, this tabletop synthesizer brings a splash of serendipity and unpredictable tonal landscapes to your musical endeavors. Whether you're crafting atmospheric tracks or looking to add a unique twist to live performances, its switchable glide function allows for seamless transitions between notes, creating an auditory experience that's as bewildering as it is captivating. Designed for the adventurous musician, it’s your ticket to exploring new sonic territories.

Key Features:

  • True to the original 1980s design
  • Produces random tones with adjustable speed
  • Switchable glide function for smooth note transitions
  • Ideal for adding unique sounds to music production or live performances

Product specs

Brand Electro-Harmonix
Model RTG Random Tone Generator
Finish Black / Red
Year 2013 - 2019
Categories Noise Generator Pedals, Octave and Pitch-Shifting Pedals

FAQs

What is the primary function of the Electro-Harmonix Random Tone Generator?

The Electro-Harmonix Random Tone Generator is designed to produce unpredictable, random tones that can add unique textures and experimental sounds to your music production or live performance.

Can the Electro-Harmonix RTG be used with other musical instruments?

Yes, the RTG can be integrated with other musical instruments and effects pedals to create a wide range of soundscapes, making it a versatile addition to any setup.

How does the Electro-Harmonix RTG differ from a traditional synthesizer?

Unlike traditional synthesizers that allow precise control over sound parameters, the RTG generates random tones, providing an element of surprise and spontaneity in your music.

Is the Electro-Harmonix Random Tone Generator suitable for live performances?

Yes, the RTG can be used in live performances to create unexpected and dynamic sound effects, enhancing the overall auditory experience for the audience.

Does the Electro-Harmonix RTG require a specific power supply?

The Electro-Harmonix RTG typically requires a standard 9V DC power supply, which is common for many pedalboard setups, making it easy to integrate into existing equipment.

EHX

EHX

Electro-Harmonix RTG Random Tone Generator

Video thumbnail for Electro-Harmonix RTG Random Tone Generator by EHX

Electro-Harmonix RTG Random Tone Generator

EHX

EHX

Video thumbnail for Electro Harmonix RTG Random Tone Generator Reissue Demo by Joel Gilardini

Electro Harmonix RTG Random Tone Generator Reissue Demo

Joel Gilardini

Joel Gilardini

Video thumbnail for Electro-Harmonix RTG (Random Tone Generator) by Prymaxe

Electro-Harmonix RTG (Random Tone Generator)

Prymaxe

Prymaxe

Video thumbnail for electro-harmonix RTG | Random Tone Generator by エレクトロハーモニックス

electro-harmonix RTG | Random Tone Generator

エレクトロハーモニックス

エレクトロハーモニックス

Video thumbnail for Getting weird with Electro Harmonix by 60 Cycle Hum

Getting weird with Electro Harmonix

60 Cycle Hum

60 Cycle Hum

Video thumbnail for Electro Harmonix RTG Random Tone Generator Guitar Synth | Gear4music demo by Gear4music Guitars

Electro Harmonix RTG Random Tone Generator Guitar Synth | Gear4music demo

Gear4music Guitars

Gear4music Guitars

Video thumbnail for MESSE13: EHX Random Tone Generator by sonicstate

MESSE13: EHX Random Tone Generator

sonicstate

sonicstate

Reviews

PROS

  • Unique soundscapes with endless variability, never the same audio experience twice

  • Integrates well with a wide range of effects pedals for expanded sound possibilities

  • CV output mod adds compatibility with modular setups

  • Features like speed control and glide add to its versatility

  • Acts as a novelty standalone unit and transforms when coupled with other gear

CONS

  • Lack of control over specific intervals may limit its use for some musicians

  • Requires additional gear (like pedals, switches) to fully unlock its potential

  • May be seen more as a novelty than a serious musical tool by some users

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Electro-Harmonix Random Tone Generator.

Features and functionality

  • The EHX Random Tone Generator features only an output jack, limiting its integration within a typical effects chain.

    Source
  • Despite being labeled "random," the RTG plays the same sequence every time, contradicting its perceived randomness.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • It can be modified to serve as a CV controller, expanding its utility beyond its original design.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Users suggest placing it first in the chain with an AB box to create and loop unique sound samples effectively.

    Source
  • Combining the RTG with delay, reverb, and looper pedals can enhance its ability to generate intriguing soundscapes.

    Source
  • Ideal for noise-making setups, effectively paired with Arturia MicroBrute, Stylophone Beatbox, detuned guitars, and drone synths for diverse sonic experimentation.

    Source
  • Owners find the RTG particularly suitable for minimalist rigs or when space is limited.

    Source
  • Some users find the RTG useful for creating ambient, glitchy, and noise music, where its limited functionality can still be creatively exploited.

    Source
  • It has been used effectively to produce sound during live tuning, offering a practical application beyond its intended novelty.

    Source

Comparisons

  • RTG offers a compact alternative to the larger SY-300, which occupies significant pedalboard space.

    Source
  • The Idiotbox Dead Space Invader and Bad Dreams pedals are suggested as superior alternatives, offering more features and modulation options for similar noise-making purposes.

    Source

User experience

  • Users express satisfaction with the RTG for its intended purpose, noting it meets noise-making expectations effectively.

    Source

4.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 9 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
oliverduffy

Not really a guitar pedal, more of an instrument in itself.

this thing is hours of fun as it creates random digital tones which cannot be organised, only the speed can be changed and glide can be added. When used with an octave pedal, kaoss pad, delay pedal etc, some crazy-sounding sounds can be created.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Jeff Tweedy uses Electro-Harmonix Random Tone Generator

Jeff Tweedy

Singer, Guitarist

Wilco

...
Verified via reverb.com

Jeff Tweedy owns an Electro-Harmonix Random Tone Generator, as highlighted in the Wilco Loft Shop listing on Reverb. This reissue remains faithful to its 1980s predecessor, offering unique control over random tone speed with a switchable glide function, making it an intriguing addition to any setup.

See how Yang (@montheyang) uses Electro-Harmonix Random Tone Generator

Yang (@montheyang)

Composer, Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

An RTG can be seen in Yang's live setup at 3:44 in this video

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Electro-Harmonix Random Tone Generator, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Korg Electribe Sampler
Korg Electribe Sampler Production & Groove
1
Roland AIRA TB-3
Roland AIRA TB-3 Synthesizers
1
Korg Minilogue
Korg Minilogue Synthesizers
1
Korg MicroKORG
Korg MicroKORG Synthesizers
1

Community setups

Show yours
rothhandlestudios

rothhandlestudios

Gear IQ 1963

More Electro-Harmonix Tabletop Synthesizers

Accessories & Related Items

Similar

Gear Guides