Based on the PO-33 K.O., the EP-133 K.O. II boasts enhanced power, expanded sampling, a redesigned sequencer, and innovative punch-in 2.0 effects.
What is the EP-133 K.O. II?
The EP-133 K.O. II, from Teenage Engineering, is a powerful and refreshingly simple analog sampler and sequencer. Building upon the foundation of the popular PO-33 K.O., it delivers a significantly upgraded experience. This instrument allows musicians to capture, manipulate, and sequence sounds with an intuitive workflow. It’s designed for both beginners and experienced electronic music producers seeking a portable and inspiring creative tool.
Key Features and Improvements over the PO-33 K.O.
The EP-133 K.O. II dramatically improves upon its predecessor with more sampling capabilities and a fully reworked sequencer. New Punch-In 2.0 effects offer expanded sonic manipulation. Crucially, the first major OS update introduced resampling, song mode, sidechaining, and increased polyphony, significantly expanding creative possibilities beyond the original PO-33 K.O.’s feature set.
Getting Started with the EP-133 K.O. II
Begin your journey with the EP-133 K.O. II by unboxing and setting up the device, then familiarize yourself with its basic controls and power functions.
Unboxing and Initial Setup
Upon receiving your EP-133 K.O. II, carefully unpack the unit and inspect for any visible damage. The package includes the sampler itself, a USB cable for power and data transfer, and a quick-start guide. Before powering on, ensure the device is placed on a stable surface. Connect the USB cable to a power source or computer. Initial setup involves familiarizing yourself with the button layout and screen display, preparing you for sampling and sequencing adventures!
Powering the Device and Basic Controls
The EP-133 K.O. II is powered via USB – connect it to a computer or a USB power adapter. Once powered, the unit is ready for use! Key controls include the function buttons for sampling, sequencing, and effects. The encoder knob navigates menus and adjusts parameters. Experiment with the buttons to understand their functions; the quick-start guide provides a basic overview, launching you into creative exploration.
Sampling Capabilities
The EP-133 K.O. II offers significantly improved sampling capabilities, allowing users to capture and manipulate audio with greater flexibility and control.
Sampling Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
Initiate sampling by pressing the record button; the EP-133 K.O. II instantly begins capturing audio. Adjust the input level to prevent clipping, ensuring a clean recording. Utilize the onboard microphone or connect an external source. Once satisfied, press record again to finalize the sample. The device then automatically loops and prepares the sample for sequencing. Experiment with different sources for unique sounds, and remember the updated OS enables resampling for further sonic manipulation.
Resampling Functionality (OS Update Feature)
The significant 2026 OS update introduced resampling, a powerful feature allowing users to re-record and manipulate existing samples. This opens creative avenues for layering, chopping, and transforming sounds directly within the EP-133 K.O. II. Simply sample a previously recorded sound, then immediately re-record it with effects applied, creating complex textures. This iterative process unlocks a new dimension of sonic possibilities, expanding the sampler’s capabilities.
Sampling Time and Quality
The EP-133 K.O. II excels in its sampling capabilities, offering a streamlined process for capturing audio. While specific sampling time details aren’t explicitly stated, the device focuses on quick and intuitive operation. The quality leans towards a deliberately “dirty” aesthetic, characteristic of Teenage Engineering’s design philosophy. This imparts a unique character to samples, encouraging experimentation and unconventional sound design.
Sequencing and Pattern Creation
The EP-133’s sequencer is fully reworked, offering intuitive pattern creation from scratch, alongside unique “Knockout” features for dynamic and expressive musical arrangements.
Understanding the Sequencer Interface
The EP-133 K.O. II’s sequencer presents a streamlined interface for crafting patterns. Users interact with a grid-based system to input notes and control parameters. Each step can be individually adjusted for pitch, volume, and effects. Mastering the sequencer involves understanding the function of each button and utilizing the “Knockout” features to introduce rhythmic variations and unexpected sonic textures. Experimentation is key to unlocking the sequencer’s full potential, allowing for complex and evolving compositions.
Creating Patterns from Scratch
Begin by selecting an empty pattern slot on the EP-133 K.O. II. Utilize the step buttons to input notes, adjusting pitch and velocity for each step. Leverage the “Knockout” features to add rhythmic complexity and variation. Experiment with different sample combinations and effect settings to shape your sound. Remember to save your patterns frequently to avoid losing your creative work, building a library of unique sequences.
Knockout Features in Sequencing
The “Knockout” features dramatically alter pattern playback. Pressing a step button during playback instantly mutes that step, creating stutters and breaks. Holding a step button re-triggers the sample, adding fills and variations. These intuitive controls allow for real-time performance manipulation, injecting dynamic rhythmic changes into your sequences, and fostering spontaneous musical ideas.
Synchronization and Connectivity
Syncing is a simple clock signal locking the EP-133’s timing with external devices like analogue sequencers, modular systems, or Pocket Operators.
Syncing with External Devices (Analog Sequencers, Modular Systems, Pocket Operators)
The EP-133 K.O. II simplifies synchronization using a clock signal, aligning its tempo with external electronic pulses from devices like analogue sequencers and modular systems. It’s also compatible with Teenage Engineering’s Pocket Operators, and other grooveboxes offering similar sync capabilities. Ensuring a matched tempo is achieved through sending and receiving various clock divisions, providing flexible integration with existing setups.
Clock Divisions and Matching Sync Signals
To seamlessly integrate with diverse external gear, the EP-133 K.O. II expertly handles differing clock divisions. This capability ensures precise synchronization, even when paired with devices operating at varying pulse rates. By sending and receiving these signals, the K.O. II maintains rhythmic cohesion within a broader setup, preventing timing discrepancies and fostering a fluid workflow.
Control Voltage (CV) Integration
The EP-133 K.O. II extends its connectivity beyond standard sync, incorporating robust Control Voltage (CV) integration. This allows users to modulate parameters within the sampler using external analog sequencers or modular systems. By leveraging CV, you can dynamically alter sounds, creating evolving textures and intricate performances, bridging the gap between digital and analog workflows.
Effects and Sound Manipulation
The EP-133 K.O. II features punch-in 2.0 effects and a suite of built-in effects, offering extensive options for shaping and manipulating your sampled sounds.
Punch-In 2.0 Effects
Punch-In 2.0 represents a significant evolution of the original punch-in effects, offering a more dynamic and expressive way to manipulate sounds in real-time. These effects allow users to record over existing samples, creating stuttering, glitching, and rhythmic variations directly on the EP-133 K.O. II. The revamped system provides greater control and precision, enabling intricate sound design possibilities and unique performance techniques, pushing the boundaries of sampling and sequencing.
Built-in Effects Overview
The EP-133 K.O. II features a suite of built-in effects designed to enhance and transform sampled sounds. Beyond the innovative Punch-In 2.0, users have access to a range of processing tools, including filters, delays, and distortion. These effects can be applied individually or combined to create complex textures and sonic landscapes, offering a versatile palette for sound design and musical experimentation directly within the compact sampler.
OS Updates and New Features
A major 2026 OS update introduced resampling, song mode, sidechaining, and increased polyphony, significantly expanding the EP-133 K.O. II’s creative potential.
The First Major OS Update (2026)
Released in 2026, this substantial update dramatically enhanced the EP-133 K.O. II’s functionality. Key additions included a powerful resampling feature, allowing users to manipulate existing samples in exciting new ways. The long-awaited song mode enabled the creation of extended compositions, while sidechaining added rhythmic pumping effects. Furthermore, increased polyphony broadened sonic possibilities, offering richer and more complex soundscapes for musicians and sound designers alike.
Song Mode Implementation
A highly requested feature, song mode arrived with the 2026 OS update, enabling users to chain together multiple patterns into complete tracks. This allows for extended compositions beyond the limitations of individual pattern lengths. Seamless transitions between patterns are now possible, fostering more dynamic and evolving musical arrangements. Song mode significantly expands the EP-133 K.O. II’s creative potential for live performance and studio production.
Sidechaining Functionality
The 2026 OS update introduced sidechaining, a powerful effect for creating rhythmic pumping and dynamic textures. This allows the EP-133 K.O. II’s volume to be modulated by an external or internal signal, typically a kick drum. Sidechaining adds professional-sounding depth and groove to tracks, enhancing the rhythmic interplay between sounds and offering new sonic possibilities for producers.
Increased Polyphony
A significant improvement with the 2026 OS update is the increased polyphony of the EP-133 K.O. II. This allows for more notes to be played simultaneously, expanding the sonic palette and enabling richer, more complex musical arrangements. Users can now create fuller chords and layered sounds, unlocking new creative avenues for composition and performance.
Advanced Techniques
Explore parameter control via Control Voltage, master advanced sampling methods, and construct intricate sequences to fully harness the EP-133 K.O. II’s potential.
Using Control Voltage for Parameter Control
The EP-133 K.O. II’s integration of Control Voltage (CV) opens exciting possibilities for modulating its parameters with external gear like analog sequencers and modular systems. This allows for dynamic control over various aspects of sound, moving beyond the device’s internal capabilities. Experiment with CV signals to manipulate filter cutoff, pitch, or effect parameters, creating evolving textures and rhythmic variations. Connecting to external CV sources unlocks a deeper level of expressiveness and sonic exploration, transforming the K.O. II into a versatile component within a larger setup.
Advanced Sampling Techniques
Beyond basic sampling, the EP-133 K.O. II’s resampling functionality – introduced via OS update – unlocks creative sound design potential. Record and then re-sample existing samples, layering and manipulating them to craft unique textures. Explore granular synthesis by resampling small portions of audio, and experiment with the punch-in effects during the resampling process for immediate sonic transformations. These techniques allow for complex soundscapes and intricate rhythmic elements.
Creating Complex Sequences
The EP-133 K.O. II’s sequencer excels at crafting intricate patterns. Utilize the “Knockout” features to introduce rhythmic variations and unexpected breaks. Combine multiple patterns and leverage the device’s sequencing capabilities to build dynamic arrangements. Experiment with parameter locks to modulate sounds throughout the sequence, adding evolving textures and rhythmic interest. Mastering these techniques unlocks the full potential of the sequencer.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Addressing sampling, sequencing, and synchronization problems, solutions involve checking connections, ensuring proper clock divisions, and reviewing the EP-133 K.O. II manual.
Sampling Problems and Solutions
If experiencing sampling issues, first verify the input level is appropriate – too low results in a weak signal, while too high causes distortion. Ensure the sampling source is actively playing and the correct input is selected.
If resampling isn’t functioning post-OS update, double-check the update completed successfully. For poor sample quality, experiment with different sampling rates. Finally, consult the EP-133 K.O. II manual for detailed troubleshooting steps and specific error codes.
Sequencing Errors and Fixes
Encountering sequencing glitches? Begin by verifying pattern length and step values are within acceptable ranges. If patterns aren’t playing correctly, ensure the correct pattern is selected and activated. Utilize the “Knockout” features creatively, but confirm settings aren’t causing unintended behavior. A factory reset, as detailed in the EP-133 K.O. II manual, can resolve persistent errors. Remember to save your work frequently!
Synchronization Difficulties
Facing sync issues? Double-check cable connections and ensure compatibility with your external device. The EP-133 K.O. II supports various clock divisions; confirm your devices are matched. Verify the K.O. II is set to receive or transmit sync signals correctly. If using analog gear, signal strength might be a factor – experiment with levels. Refer to the manual for detailed synchronization troubleshooting steps.
EP-133 K.O. II vs. PO-33 K.O.: A Detailed Comparison
The EP-133 K.O. II offers more power, improved sampling, a reworked sequencer, and new punch-in effects compared to its predecessor, the PO-33 K.O.
Hardware Differences
While building upon the foundation of the PO-33 K.O., the EP-133 K.O. II presents notable hardware refinements. Though specifics remain largely undisclosed, the EP-133 features a more robust build quality and potentially upgraded components for enhanced durability. The unit maintains a compact, portable design, characteristic of Teenage Engineering’s Pocket Operator series, but with a refined aesthetic. Expect improved tactile feedback from the buttons and a generally more premium feel compared to the original PO-33, signaling a step up in build quality.
Software and Feature Set Comparison
The EP-133 K.O. II significantly expands upon the PO-33 K.O.’s software capabilities. Key additions include resampling functionality, a dedicated Song Mode for arranging patterns, and sidechaining for dynamic sound manipulation. Increased polyphony allows for richer, more complex sonic textures. The reworked sequencer offers enhanced control, while punch-in 2.0 effects provide a new level of creative expression, making the EP-133 a powerful standalone instrument.
Where to Buy and Resources
Purchase the EP-133 K.O. II directly from the official Teenage Engineering store or through authorized affiliate retailers for convenient access.
Official Teenage Engineering Store
The primary source for acquiring the EP-133 K.O. II is the official Teenage Engineering online store. This guarantees authenticity and direct access to the latest stock, ensuring you receive a genuine product. Furthermore, the official store frequently offers exclusive bundles and accessories specifically designed for the K.O. II, enhancing your creative workflow. You can find it at teenage.engineering/store/ep-133, and consider using affiliate links for potential support!
Affiliate Links and Retailers
Beyond the official store, several retailers carry the EP-133 K.O. II. Supporting creators through affiliate links, like those offered by “cuckoo,” provides a way to contribute to valuable tutorial content. Check authorized dealers for potential promotions and availability. Remember to verify retailer legitimacy before purchasing to ensure product authenticity and warranty coverage. Explore options for competitive pricing and shipping!
Community and Support
Engage with fellow users through online forums and YouTube tutorials for collaborative learning, troubleshooting, and sharing creative techniques with the EP-133 K.O. II.
Online Forums and Communities
Discover a vibrant online ecosystem dedicated to the EP-133 K.O. II! Numerous forums and communities provide spaces for users to connect, share tips, and troubleshoot challenges. These platforms are invaluable for beginners seeking guidance and experienced users exchanging advanced techniques.
Find support, collaborate on projects, and stay updated on the latest discoveries within the EP-133 community – a fantastic resource for maximizing your creative potential.
Tutorials and Learning Resources (YouTube)
YouTube is brimming with EP-133 K.O. II tutorials! From initial setup guides to advanced sequencing techniques, creators offer visual demonstrations to accelerate your learning curve. Explore videos showcasing pattern creation from scratch, highlighting the “Knockout” features, and delving into the intricacies of sampling.
These resources provide practical insights and inspire creative exploration with this powerful sampler and sequencer.
NAMM 2026 Announcements
At NAMM 2026, Teenage Engineering showcased new EP-133 K.O. II features, receiving positive industry reception and reviews for its innovative design.
New Features Showcased at NAMM
Teenage Engineering’s NAMM 2026 presentation highlighted the EP-133 K.O. II’s substantial OS update. This included the eagerly anticipated resampling functionality, enabling creative sound manipulation. Song Mode was demonstrated, streamlining composition workflows. Sidechaining capabilities were also unveiled, adding rhythmic texture; Finally, increased polyphony was showcased, expanding sonic possibilities for users, solidifying the EP-133 K.O. II’s position as a powerful sampler.
Industry Reception and Reviews
Initial reactions at NAMM 2026 were overwhelmingly positive, with reviewers praising the EP-133 K.O. II’s intuitive workflow and expanded feature set. The OS update, particularly resampling and song mode, garnered significant attention. Many noted its accessibility alongside its depth, appealing to both beginners and experienced musicians. The device was lauded as a refreshingly simple yet powerful analog sampler, standing out amongst more complex gear.
Future Developments and Potential Updates
Expect future OS updates to further refine functionality, and potential hardware expansions could broaden the EP-133 K.O. II’s capabilities, building on its current strengths.
Expected Future OS Updates
Teenage Engineering consistently supports its products with ongoing software development. Users can anticipate future OS updates for the EP-133 K.O. II, potentially introducing new effects, expanded sequencing options, and refinements to existing features. The initial major update, released in 2026, demonstrated their commitment by adding resampling, song mode, sidechaining, and increased polyphony – hinting at further exciting possibilities down the line.
Potential Hardware Expansions
While Teenage Engineering prioritizes software enhancements, potential hardware expansions for the EP-133 K.O. II remain a topic of speculation. Considering the device’s focus on portability and integration, future accessories might include a dedicated stand, protective case, or expanded connectivity options. Collaboration with modular synth companies for compatible interface modules is also a possibility, broadening its creative scope.
