Teenage Engineering founder Jesper Kouthoofd has announced the company will cease manufacturing synthesizers, including its flagship OP-1, to focus on design collaborations.
Teenage Engineering's KO II sampler receives OS 2.5 with USB audio support, selectable sample rates (including 32 kHz and 26 kHz for lo-fi), sample reverse, an arpeggiator, and equal-length autochopping, plus a longer 40-second mono sampling window. The update also improves time-stretching, adds new scales and per-pad time shifting, and fixes bugs; it’s also available for the Riddim, while the EP-1320 Medieval’s update is USB-audio-only.
Teenage Engineering unveiled the EP-136 K.O. Sidekick, a two-channel stereo mixer that docks with EP-series samplers but also works as a full standalone mixer, audio interface, and MIDI controller for a range of gear. It includes per-channel EQ and compression, onboard effects (delay, tape saturation, tremolo) controlled by a pad and mod stick, a color screen, and power via AAA batteries or USB-C. Priced at $180, it’s designed for portable setups, though the docking pegs between samplers may not be extremely sturdy.
Teenage Engineering releases a stylish, semi-transparent PC case available via waitlist, while other tech highlights include durable Fairphone accessories, a new Alien universe series, affordable Switch controllers, and the return of the roguelike game Enter the Gungeon on mobile. The article also features personal tech setups and community recommendations.
Teenage Engineering, a Swedish tech and design brand, has created a minimalist, screw-free, free computer chassis called Computer-2, designed to be the cheapest in the world, but it is currently sold out after a limited release, with no immediate plans for restocking.
Teenage Engineering has announced the Computer-2, a foldable, semi-transparent plastic PC case designed for small form factor builds, claiming to be the world's cheapest case as it is given away for free, though it is currently sold out.
Teenage Engineering has unveiled the OP-XY, a sophisticated successor to the OP-Z, featuring enhanced sequencing capabilities, a high-res display, and built-in CV for modular integration. Priced at EUR 2299, this luxury instrument boasts a dual-CPU platform, new synth engines, and advanced features like live automation and microtonal tuning. Despite its high cost, the OP-XY is a no-compromise device aimed at serious musicians, offering a rich array of creative tools and connectivity options.
Teenage Engineering has unveiled the OP-XY, a new groovebox in their Field series, building on the OP-Z's sequencing capabilities. The OP-XY features a dual CPU system, 8GB storage, and 512 MB RAM, supporting a 16-track sequencer with 24 voices of polyphony and multiple synth engines. It offers advanced step sequencing, live sampling, and a range of effects, all housed in a sleek black aluminum design. The device includes versatile connectivity options and a rechargeable battery, priced at $2299.
The Teenage Engineering TP-7 Field Recorder offers a unique and fun recording experience with clever functions like the ability to play audio backward and mix and match inputs and outputs. However, it can be tricky to navigate and has some idiosyncrasies, such as requiring two button presses to start recording. While it may not be the most intuitive or professional recorder, it provides a good time and flexibility for creative audio manipulation.
Yamaha introduces the SEQTRAK, a compact and affordable MIDI sequencer that emulates the casual brilliance of the Teenage Engineering OP-1 synth, offering versatile sound engines, intuitive design, and streamlined connectivity options. Priced at $599, the SEQTRAK is designed for both beginners and seasoned music producers, providing a portable and user-friendly solution for on-the-go music creation and performance.
Jesse Lyu, founder of Raven Tech, collaborated with Teenage Engineering to design the Rabbit R1, a bright orange walkie-talkie for AI with a retro appeal, priced at $199. Despite criticism, Lyu believes AI hardware is a new frontier and aims to de-risk the product by offering something familiar yet disruptive. The R1's large action model and dedicated hardware provide defensibility to the business, and its key processing happens in the cloud, ensuring data security. With 50,000 preorders, the Rabbit R1 is set to ship in waves through June or July, offering a glimpse into the future of AI hardware.
Teenage Engineering co-founder David Eriksson addresses the 'Fadergate' issue with the EP-133 K.O.II sampler, acknowledging the unexpected rate of transport damage affecting the fader. Customers have reported unresponsive faders upon delivery, prompting the company to implement new packaging to minimize transit damage for the next batch. Eriksson also hints at upcoming features for the sampler and plans to showcase the factory machinery in an online tour.
The rabbit r1, a standout gadget at CES, will use Perplexity AI’s tech to answer user queries, with the first 100,000 buyers receiving one year of Perplexity Pro for free. Priced at $200 and designed by Teenage Engineering, the device features a touchscreen, push-to-talk button, camera, speaker, and two mics, with 50,000 devices already sold in pre-orders. Perplexity AI, which recently raised $73.6 million in investment, utilizes a mix of its own AI model and third-party models to provide accurate information and competes with Google’s Bard and Microsoft’s Copilot in the GenAI search space.
The Rabbit R1, powered by Perplexity's AI, will provide up-to-date search results without the need for a subscription, with the first 100,000 buyers receiving a free one-year Perplexity Pro subscription. The device, designed by Teenage Engineering, features a touchscreen, scroll wheel, mics, speaker, rotational camera, and "Push-to-Talk" button, and can perform various tasks using its Large Action Model. Pre-orders are available now, with shipments expected in March or April.
Yamaha has unveiled the SEQTRAK groovebox, a portable all-in-one production studio that includes a drum machine, sampler, FM and sample-based synthesis, and a sequencer, with a built-in battery and speaker. The device also comes with a multi-platform companion app for visual control and deeper settings. Priced at $399 for pre-order, the SEQTRAK offers robust sampler credentials and a larger footprint compared to its Teenage Engineering rivals, making it a potential competitor in the music production market.