TL;DR
Teenage Engineering has released OS 2.5 for its KO II sampler, adding features like USB audio, lo-fi sample rates, sample reverse, and extended sampling time. These updates improve functionality and creative options for users.
Teenage Engineering has released OS 2.5 for its KO II sampler, adding significant new features including USB audio support, selectable sample rates for lo-fi effects, sample reverse, and an increased maximum sample length from 20 to 40 seconds. This update enhances the device’s versatility and creative potential, making it more appealing to musicians and producers.
The OS 2.5 update introduces audio over USB, allowing users to record directly into the sampler from a computer or other devices, a feature highly requested by the community. It also adds selectable sample rates, with options for 46 kHz, 32 kHz, and 26 kHz, enabling users to achieve different sonic textures, from clean to crunchy lo-fi sounds.
Additional features include sample reverse, a simple yet impactful addition that allows reversing samples instantly, and an arpeggiator, expanding rhythmic and melodic possibilities. The update also extends the maximum sample length to 40 seconds by capturing mono audio, making it easier to work with longer recordings. Improvements in time stretching, new scales, and per-pad time shifting further enhance performance and flexibility.
The update is also available for the Riddim, Teenage Engineering’s reggae-themed sampler, while the EP-1320 Medieval sampler is receiving only a basic USB audio update. The company has not yet explained why the Medieval model is limited in this update cycle.
Enhanced Creative Control and Sound Shaping
This update significantly broadens the creative potential of the KO II, making it more versatile for live performance, sound design, and music production. The addition of USB audio simplifies workflow, while the lo-fi sample rate options allow artists to craft unique textures that were previously difficult to achieve. The increased sample length and new features like reverse sampling and autochopping improve usability for both melodic and rhythmic work, positioning the KO II as a more powerful and flexible instrument.
Teenage Engineering KO II sampler USB audio interface
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Major Firmware Updates for Teenage Engineering Devices
Teenage Engineering has a history of supporting its devices with substantial firmware updates, notably for the KO II sampler, which launched at $329. Previous updates have added features like new effects, improved sampling, and interface tweaks. The OS 2.5 update continues this trend, aiming to keep the KO II competitive in a crowded market of portable samplers and grooveboxes. The company’s approach to frequent, feature-rich updates reflects its commitment to user feedback and product longevity.
While the KO II has gained popularity for its sound quality and portability, the recent update underscores its evolving capabilities, especially with features like lo-fi sampling and USB audio, which are increasingly sought after in modern music production.
“The new sample rate options, especially 26 kHz, really push the KO II into new sonic territory, making it a more expressive tool for lo-fi and experimental music.”
— an anonymous researcher
lo-fi sample rate converter for music production
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Details on Future Support for Medieval Sampler
It remains unclear why the EP-1320 Medieval sampler is only receiving a limited update with USB audio and no other new features. Teenage Engineering has not provided an explanation for its limited support cycle for this device, and further details are not yet available.
portable sampler with reverse sampling
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Next Steps for Firmware and Product Support
Teenage Engineering is expected to continue updating its existing products based on user feedback and market trends. The company may clarify its support plans for the Medieval sampler and potentially introduce new features or models in the future. Users should stay tuned for upcoming announcements regarding further firmware releases and product enhancements.
music production sampler with extended sample length
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Key Questions
What new features does OS 2.5 add to the KO II?
It adds USB audio support, selectable sample rates (including lo-fi options), sample reverse, an arpeggiator, extended sample length, and improvements in time stretching and autochopping.
Can I record directly into the KO II via USB after the update?
Yes, OS 2.5 enables audio recording over USB, simplifying integration with computers and other devices.
Why is the Medieval sampler not receiving the same updates?
It is unclear why the EP-1320 Medieval sampler is limited to a basic USB audio update, as Teenage Engineering has not yet explained this decision.
Will there be more updates for the KO II?
While no official announcement has been made, Teenage Engineering’s track record suggests continued firmware updates and feature enhancements for the KO II and other products.
Source: The Verge
