teenage engineering EP-133 K.O. II Sampler Composer

What began as one of the most punchy and immediate samplers in its class has taken a significant step forward. With its first major OS update and an expanded 128MB sample memory, the teenage engineering EP-133 K.O. II sampler, sequencer and composer is now deeper and more capable than ever. New additions such as resampling for chopping and remixing sounds, note-triggered sidechain for groove control and an expanded Song Mode supporting arrangements up to 9,801 bars dramatically extend its creative scope. Increased polyphony, extended MIDI functionality and improved audio stability round out the update, keeping the K.O. II nimble and intuitive while giving it the depth to support larger, more complex productions.

Resampling, Sidechain and Expanded Polyphony for Modern Beats

The most transformative addition to K.O. II is resampling, which allows patterns, layers and full beats to be captured back into the sampler for further slicing and manipulation. Note-triggered sidechain brings modern groove shaping inside the box, letting you control pump length and feel without external processing. Increased polyphony, now up to 16 mono and 12 stereo voices, supports denser arrangements, while the optimized playback engine keeps timing tight and performance responsive.

Song Mode and Sequencing Built for Full Arrangements

K.O. II’s sequencer has always emphasized speed, but the expanded Song Mode turns it into a complete composition tool. Scenes can be chained into up to 99 song positions, with each position lasting as long as the longest pattern in the scene, enabling songs that stretch up to 9,801 bars. Variable pattern lengths, larger timing intervals, project-level swing and improved visual feedback make it easier to shape verses, transitions and builds without interrupting creative momentum.

Hands-Free Sampling and Real-Time Performance Control

Sampling on the K.O. II is designed for immediacy, and hands-free sampling pushes that concept further. With a simple key command, recording can be triggered while both hands remain on performance controls, making it easy to capture vocals, instruments or external gear in the moment. Live and automatic slicing, instant erase, punch-in FX 2.0 with pressure sensitivity and real-time resampling position the K.O. II as both a production hub and a performance instrument.

Deep MIDI, Sync and External Integration

Extended MIDI support makes the K.O. II far more adaptable in hybrid setups. Any pad can be assigned to a MIDI channel, external controllers can trigger any sound and incoming pitch bend and modulation messages now affect sample playback. MIDI Thru enables data to pass through to other devices, while improved TRS MIDI and restored SYNC OUT provide stable clocking with external gear. From modular systems to drum machines and software instruments, the K.O. II integrates smoothly into modern rigs.

Portable, Affordable and Unmatched in Its Class

Despite its expanded memory and feature set, the EP-133 K.O. II remains compact, battery-powered and approachable. Pressure- and velocity-sensitive pads, tactile faders, onboard effects, a master compressor and a 32-bit internal signal chain deliver professional results in a lightweight, go-anywhere design. For producers who value speed, punch and creative freedom without the cost or complexity of larger samplers, the K.O. II continues to stand apart as one of the most immediate and accessible tools in its class.