Teenage Engineering, the Swedish tech and design company known for their OP-1, the more recent OP-1 Field and many other brilliant yet expensive products, has introduced its latest music device, the EP-133 K.O. II ‘sampler composer’. It’s not just another synthesizer; it’s a whole new world of music-making packed into a sleek, retro-chic gadget. Imagine the coolness of the Pocket Operator, but with a serious upgrade. This isn’t just a toy – it’s a powerful, portable, and visually stunning device that’s perfect for both pros and beginners.
Main Features
The EP-133 K.O. II is a groovebox that bundles a creative sampler, sequencer, effects, and composing tools in one device. It offers 12 newly-developed vintage-style keys that have a modern touch, combining tactility with pressure sensitivity (polyAT). It also hosts a large color display that has a very retro style with lovely symbols, providing instant feedback on your tracks. The device can handle 6 stereo or 12 mono voices and has room for 999 individual samples. It samples at a rate of 46.875kHz and 16-bit with 32-bit internal processing. The device features 64MB of memory, which is adapted to the workflow of the device. Limitations are not necessarily a bad thing. Obviously other grooveboxes such as Digitakt or the SP404 MkII will offer you much more in this regard, so that’s something you might want to consider.
Sampling Features
The EP-133 K.O. II offers a versatile and powerful sampling feature that allows you to capture, manipulate, and sequence a wide range of sounds, making it a valuable tool for music production. You can sample anything around you, including your voice, synths, vinyl records, or any audio you have on your phone. The device also allows you to drag and drop samples using the sample tool application. Once the samples are on the pads, you can sequence them. You can program them in free mode or quantized with swing. For perfect recording, it also hosts an instantaneous time correction and erase functionality, allowing you to fix wrong timings.
Effect Section
The EP-133 K.O. II features a robust effects section that enhances its capabilities as a sampler and sequencer. The device introduces brand new punch-in 2.0™ effects, which are described as the “next generation punch-in effects”. These effects can be triggered using the device’s numerical pads, which are pressure and velocity-sensitive with polyphonic aftertouch. The punch-in effects are designed to be used in real-time and can be applied to any of the 999 individual samples that the device can handle. This allows users to add depth and complexity to their compositions, enhancing the overall sound and feel of the music. The effects section also includes six built-in send effects and a master compressor, providing further options for sound manipulation and enhancement.
Integration with DAW-based Setups and Other Instruments
This groovebox isn’t short on connectivity either, with midi in and out, sync in and out, audio in and out, and a USB-C port for mains power. This allows users to connect the EP-133 K.O. II to external devices such as computers, MIDI controllers, and other music equipment, enabling seamless integration into DAW-based workflows and setups. Plus, it’s got a built-in speaker, so you can play back your beats without needing your headphones.
The Perfect Christmas Gift?
The EP-133 K.O. II has already made waves with its surprise release. It’s been described as “gorgeous, portable, and extremely powerful,” and users are loving its feature-rich Braun-inspired design. With its 80s chic styling and an abundance of controls, this gadget is a real eye-catcher. Despite all these cool things, the EP-133 K.O. II is priced at $/£299 and €349, making it a compelling option in the TE catalog. So, if you’re looking for a versatile and powerful music-making companion that won’t break the bank, the EP-133 K.O. II might just be your perfect match. Plus it makes for a fantastic Christmas gift!
Visit the TE website to learn more and order, if you can’t resist.
