The Xotic Robotalk RI is a compact filter pedal from Xotic that combines two effects in one box: a fast-acting envelope filter and a random arpeggiator. A FUNCTION switch on the pedal selects between the two modes. Xotic's Custom Shop built the RI as a re-engineered and revitalized version of the original Robotalk, now in a compact size with what Xotic describes as an improved envelope filter tone1.
An envelope filter listens to how hard you pick and sweeps a filter in response, giving a vocal, quacking quality similar to a wah-wah pedal but triggered by your attack instead of your foot. The random arpeggiator mode takes a different approach, chopping your notes into randomized patterns, with a RATE knob setting the tempo.
The controls
The Robotalk RI keeps its control set simple. The manual lists the following:
| Control | What it does |
|---|---|
| FUNCTION SWITCH | Switches between Envelope Filter and Random Arpeggiator |
| GAIN KNOB | Boosts the output signal up to +15dB |
| RATE KNOB | Controls the tempo of the arpeggiator |
| TEMPO LED | Flashes at the tempo set by the RATE knob |
| STATUS LED | Lights up when the unit is turned on |
| ON/OFF SWITCH | Turns the unit on and off; true bypass for no tone loss |
The GAIN knob is notable for a filter pedal: up to +15dB of boost means the RI can push your amp harder on top of filtering, doing part of the job of a boost pedal. The TEMPO LED gives you a visual reference for the arpeggiator's speed, which is useful when setting the RATE knob to match a tempo1.
Power and connections
The Robotalk RI runs on 9V DC at 20mA. Power comes either from one 9V (006P) battery, accessed by removing four screws from the bottom plate, or from an optional AC adapter. The adapter must be 9V DC with a negative tip, regulated only, feeding the 2.1mm x 5.5mm barrel DC jack1.
Xotic specifies regulated power supplies only. The manual lists the Voodoo Lab Pedalpower, Dunlop DC Brick, Boss PSA and Ibanez AC109 as compatible supplies.
Connections are straightforward: the input jack accepts active or passive unbalanced instruments with a nominal input of -20dBu, and the output jack connects to your amp. Input impedance is 1 meg ohm and output impedance is 1k ohm1.
Warranty
Xotic warrants the Robotalk RI against failures from defective parts or faulty workmanship for one year after delivery to the original owner, covering parts and labor for repairs, with shipping charges paid by the owner. The warranty is not transferable and does not cover damage from accident or misuse, tampering, unauthorized service, modifications, or physical abuse1.
Videos
Xotic Video
Mike Hermans
The Official Xotic Guitars and Effects Channel
Questions
Is the Xotic Robotalk RI true bypass?
Yes. Xotic's manual states the ON/OFF switch gives true bypass for no tone loss, so the pedal passes your signal uncolored when it is switched off.
Can the Robotalk RI run on a 9V battery?
Yes. It takes one 9V (006P) battery, accessed by removing four screws from the bottom plate. It can also run on a regulated 9V DC adapter with a negative center 2.1mm x 5.5mm barrel plug.
How is the Robotalk RI different from the original Robotalk?
The RI is a re-engineered version of the original Robotalk, built by the Xotic Effects Custom Shop. Xotic says it comes in a compact size and improves on the original's envelope filter tone.
What does the Robotalk RI random arpeggiator do?
The random arpeggiator is one of the pedal's two modes, selected with the FUNCTION switch. Xotic describes it as a wondrous random arpeggiator that reshapes your notes into randomized patterns, with the RATE knob controlling the tempo.
Sources (1)
- Robotalk_RI_manual.pdf, Xotic Effects, 2023
