Tone Generator - Audio Frequency Generator Online

What is a Tone Generator?

A tone generator is an electronic device or software tool that produces pure audio tones at specific frequencies. Our online tone generator uses the Web Audio API to create precise audio signals that can be used for testing audio equipment, tuning musical instruments, conducting hearing tests, or creating audio signals for various applications.

Key Features

Frequency Control: Generate tones from 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz (full human hearing range)
Volume Control: Adjustable volume from 0% to 100% with real-time control
Wave Types: Four different wave types - sine, square, sawtooth, and triangle waves
Musical Notes: Quick access to standard musical note frequencies
Duration Control: Set specific play duration or enable continuous looping
Real-time Updates: Change frequency, volume, and wave type while playing
Frequency Information: Display wavelength, period, and other audio properties
Safety Features: Built-in warnings and volume protection

How to Use the Tone Generator

Set Frequency: Enter your desired frequency in Hz (20-20,000 range)
Adjust Volume: Use the volume slider to set the desired loudness
Choose Wave Type: Select from sine, square, sawtooth, or triangle waves
Set Duration: Choose how long the tone should play (or enable looping)
Play Tone: Click the play button to start generating the audio tone
Use Presets: Click on musical note buttons for quick frequency selection
Stop When Done: Click stop to end the tone generation

Wave Types Explained

Sine Wave: Pure, smooth tone with no harmonics - best for testing and tuning
Square Wave: Harsh, buzzy sound with odd harmonics - good for testing speaker response
Sawtooth Wave: Bright, sharp sound with all harmonics - useful for testing audio equipment
Triangle Wave: Soft, mellow sound with odd harmonics - gentler than square waves

Common Applications

Audio Testing: Test speakers, headphones, and audio equipment
Musical Tuning: Tune instruments to standard frequencies
Hearing Tests: Conduct basic hearing range and sensitivity tests
Audio Calibration: Calibrate audio systems and recording equipment
Educational Use: Learn about sound waves, frequency, and audio properties
Meditation: Use specific frequencies for relaxation and focus
Pest Control: Generate ultrasonic frequencies to repel certain pests
Scientific Research: Create controlled audio signals for experiments

Musical Note Frequencies

Our tone generator includes preset buttons for common musical notes:

C4 (Middle C): 261.63 Hz
D4: 293.66 Hz
E4: 329.63 Hz
F4: 349.23 Hz
G4: 392.00 Hz
A4 (Concert Pitch): 440 Hz
A5: 880 Hz
C5: 523.25 Hz

Safety Guidelines

Start Low: Always begin with low volume and gradually increase
Limit Exposure: Avoid prolonged exposure to loud tones
Use Headphones Carefully: Be extra cautious with headphones to prevent hearing damage
Stop if Uncomfortable: Immediately stop if you experience any discomfort
Protect Others: Be considerate of others around you when using the tool

Technical Information

Frequency Range: 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz (human hearing range)
Precision: 0.1 Hz frequency resolution
Volume Range: 0% to 100% with 1% increments
Duration: 0.1 to 60 seconds or continuous looping
Browser Support: Works in all modern browsers with Web Audio API support

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the wave types?

Sine waves are pure tones with no harmonics, making them ideal for testing and tuning. Square waves have a harsh, buzzy sound with odd harmonics. Sawtooth waves are bright and sharp with all harmonics present. Triangle waves are soft and mellow with odd harmonics, making them gentler than square waves.

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Yes! Our tone generator is perfect for tuning instruments. Use the musical note presets or set specific frequencies. Start with A4 (440 Hz) for concert pitch, then tune other notes accordingly. The pure sine wave is ideal for accurate tuning.

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No, high volumes can damage your hearing. Always start with low volume and increase gradually. Avoid prolonged exposure to loud sounds. If you experience any discomfort, stop immediately. Be especially careful with headphones.

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Some browsers require user interaction before playing audio. Try clicking the play button first. Also, ensure your browser supports the Web Audio API. If you're still having issues, check your browser's audio settings and permissions.

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While our tool can be used for basic hearing range tests, it's not a substitute for professional hearing tests conducted by audiologists. For medical purposes, always consult with healthcare professionals.

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For speaker testing, try different frequencies across the range. Start with 1,000 Hz (mid-range), then test 100 Hz (bass), 5,000 Hz (treble), and 10,000 Hz (high treble). Use square waves to test for distortion and sine waves for clean frequency response.