Check KO 2 in stores here + BIG Q&A BELOW EU: thmn.to/thoprod/580267?offid=1&affid=623 US: bit.ly/40ZtGBE UK: tidd.ly/3GfYnZt Affiliate links support the channel at no cost to you, regardless of what you buy Q: How is the speaker's sound quality? A: It is not great. The click of the buttons can easily overpower sounds Q: How is KO2 vs Model:Samples A: Model Samples is not a sampler but a sample player with very deep sequencer compared to the KO2. The K.O 2 however can play back samples polyphonically and sample, and has a totally different feel to it. So similar in price, not in function. Watch my MS here: th-cam.com/video/_Hr-8jzlpCk/w-d-xo.html Q: Can I use the performance/punch in FX on external audio A: No. Only the send fx (chorus, delay, reverb, distortion, filter, compressor) Q: Song mode A: No, doesn’t seem to have a song mode unless I totally misunderstood something Q: Is it a Sp-404 killer? A: Watch the video and the answer should be an obvious NO. For some this is a better device due to its simplicity, but the SP404 mk2 has much deeper sampling capabilities and a screen that lets you actually see the waveform. It can also resample and that is a BIG part of its eco system. Watch my review of the SP-404 here: th-cam.com/video/B6oWrtVMxck/w-d-xo.html Q: Is it worth 299? A: While I don't think its crazy affordable (it is just crazy affordable compared to usual TE prices) it is worth the money I think. Q: If I have SP404mk2, Digitakt and/or Circuit Rhythm do you think I need this? A: Except for polyphonic sample playback I think there's a lot of overlap. Give it some thought before buying! How many samplers do you need? Q: How do you export your music? A: No export that I could find. Only stereo recording thru the output. USB is for MIDI and not audio according to the manual. I’ll add more Q’a and A’s as I get more questions…
I'm becoming a groovebox collector but I've had hard time wrapping my head around patterns and sequences. I find with this unit I finally understand these basics that I can now apply to my Circuit Tracks and Rhythm and MC101. It's less menu diving to get to the place that you need to be. It may not be the best unit on the market but it's a great gateway into these machines. Very fun.
I'm not convinced either that it's the one sampler to rule them all. However, I must say that your channel might be the one to rule them all! :) You always have the most in-depth and balanced reviews so when new gear comes out, you are pretty much the first channel on my list! Thanks much & cheers from USA!
Octatrack: "You'll never remember how to use me." 404 mk2: "Yes I could do that but you'll have to jump through these hoops first." Digitakt: "Nah you don't need stereo." KO2: "Re- what now?"
straight up. my OG zoom sampletrak better than 90% of samplers out there now. newly a 1010 blackbox user and i think it's the best thing out right now, despite being out 4 years at this point
Digitakt samples are mono, but they can be panned to the stereo outputs, like most drum machines. You can't sample in stereo though, that's the limitation.@@d3maccus
Hey @BoBeats! I'm only half-way through this video, but this has been the best instructional out of many I've watched thus-far. Seeing so many changes in real-time, only to be capable of practicing it on my own K.O. II has been wonderful for building muscle memory. Thanks so much for the breakdown, and precise explanations. You're killing it out here. Keep it up, and I look forward to more!
Thank you all! I think you'd be surprised if you heard some of my old music. I just never really had time to make great songs for my videos. Never been the goal either really as it's a balancing act between showing something "as it is" and not "convincing you thru a produced demo". It's also been a lot of work just learning how to make videos (which I had zero experience of when I started). I totally hear the feedback and will try hard to add good song demos in the future too.
@@BoBeats And yes, I hear you. It's so much to learn! I'm spinning my wheels but am very dedicated to producing more content and getting my stuff off the ground this year. If you want a little apprentice, cheerleader, video editor who you can hold accountable and inspire to do her own thing also, let me know! I do have some good skills producing content for others!
It's much larger in person than I had expected. With the design aesthetic, I was thinking it would be around half that size. (I'm actually happy it's larger)
This is a great video, and very helpful as well with learning the device. Everybody remember to take a break and instead of carving out time for music, carve out time for the people you love most. Or, share the device with them. My Four year old laughed while playing with it 😅
It IS limited for sure, but I’m surprised that it can play samples polyphonically - something the Digitakt or Octatrack cannot. So, that’s interesting.
Been watching your videos for years and this is finally something after years of wanting an op1 that is in my price range! Just put my order in and am excited for my first piece of gear!
I'm predicting that they will make another version of this based on the P0-20 arcade, with a synth engine, kind of like how there's the Circuit Rhythm and Circuit Tracks
I came very close to ordering this, based almost entirely on the aesthetics of the thing (it's undeniably cool looking) but also the prospect of a rather useful/inspiring 'toy' to play with when I don't feel like getting stuck into a big project. Kiiinda glad I held out though. I realised an upgrade to K14 Collector's Edition was about £40 cheaper than the KOII and I got *so* many packs for my Maschine MK3 I think it'll scratch that itch for a while. If - big if - I have 300 bucks literally spare, I would still like one to have on the coffee table in my living room, or to use in bed. But right now I can do without it. Also hopefully they'll get to the bottom of some of the construction/quality issues too. By which time it'll no doubt be 3x more expensive to get one lol
I impulsively ordered one on launch and just broke even reselling it on eBay. It's definitely overhyped, koala sampler app does the same if not more. I would agree with the coffee table idea, but only if the speaker was better quality. The one thats in it is so bad you can barely hear half the kicks/bass samples, and Im not surprised Bo's just straight up broke.
Yeah GAS Therapy put me on to Koala and it scratched the itch pretty well. Even has probability per event, which is really nice. Sorry to hear you didn't have a great experience though. Definitely glad I held off. @@slvshy666
Hey! You have to set up the specific pad to a midi channel, sound has to be in KEY mode (shift+sound to go to edit menu) and you have to have pressed the KEY button I think to engage the chromatic/poly mode for that pad
I'm ok with this not having song mode, because even on Elektron grooveboxes I like to manually perform my songs and switch patterns on the fly. But I would have REALLY appreciated audio over USB. I hope it's possible for them to add audio over USB in a software update or something.
elektrons wait for the pattern to end (at least the digitakt does) as far as I've seen the ko2 does not do this, which is odd because the original KO does
This is my main gripe, lack of usb audio. Not just because I’m lazy and don’t want to whip out an audio interface, but also because I want to be able to export stems/separate tracks. I’m not giving TE $1100 for their little portable recorder machine just so I can record a two-track master out on it.
Thank you for an outstanding review and demonstration. I am far, far away, from your ability as a musician, but it is great to see what this machine can do in skilled hands. Mine is being shipped.
Great job on the video, as usual. Always liked your informative, level-headed style and you playing the f*ck out of anything you get your hands on. We're lucky to have a great reviewer (and teacher) like you!
I've been shopping for a decent sampler. The EP133 KO II sold out so I bought a Roland SP404 MKII instead. Waiting for it to arrive....I don't think I will be disappointed although I would have jumped on the EP133 KO II if it had not sold out so quickly....and I didn't want to wait for the next batch to become available.
Love that you're taking a teacher's approach with notes on paper. Feels authentic and I'm sure it's easier for yourself too. Just a small little detail that I appreciated about this review. The sampler isn't for me though. Pretty, but too limited. 😊
EP-133 reminds me of MPC500 that I had back in the days. Same 12 pads, fader that you can assign FX and other things to, battery powered, banks of sounds, Scenes (same as sequences on MPC). MPC500 was built like a tank and the price was higher even back then - I got mine for $699 in 2007 (I think it's with discount) which translates to $1100 now. EP-133 has easier workflow but has less features for sure.
I’m hoping this will get as much love & firmware updates as Novation gave the Circuit! That device just about doubled its functionality in the years after its first release.
Not being able to simply play through your scenes in sequence without manually having to switch is a deal breaker for me, especially since the work flow pictures imply that you can play through your 'song'..
Many thanks for your video. After the initial hype of (generally good) reviews I thought to myself I’ll probably wait a few months for T.E. To sort out the problems out, now I don’t think I’ll bother! Looks like my search for a new sampler continues!
Thank you for the video! For me personally the KO2 is highly portable device and I like it. BUT: For such portable device I would need a Bluetooth (for headphones) AND rechargeable battery (USB-C) instead of AAA batteries
add a usb battery bank blu tooth headphone have too much latency - would be stupid idea for a music instrument -blu tooth headphones are only for listening pre recorded songs.
so rad, epic explanation. I'ma own one someday but I'm in no rush what with having the SP. This seems fun but wanna focus on mastering the SP before jumping onto something else. Also I have the OPZ and that's already like a suped up pocket operator imo
Actually, it Seems almost like an updated SP-303...vs the 404 mkii competitor some might think it is...the inability to chain sequences...most will prob use in conjunction with a daw these days, as most people tend to with these limited feature groove box samplers, so, they may have just assumed as much and figured sequencing in daw will suffice. The fact that it's only 300$, given what it CAN do, is probably it's biggest selling point, allowing those folks, especially younger beatmakers, with limited resources, to enter into the realm of sampling, with an at least "semi pro" level sampler, that has some contemporary features, versus the previous KO, or perhaps a hard to find, potentially wonky, SP-202, or some other, older, far less functional groove box sampler for a similar price...I could totally see my 16 yr old, and her band, having a blast with this..
I like the idea of the parameters just being graphically represented, not relying on numbers but on the sound you’re creating. The step recording is basically the same as my Boss DR660 from 1992. Made me feel a bit nostalgic.
20:00 btw - Re: Audio-In - How does the sound clarity compare to SP404? Do you think it's clean enough to run a live vocalist through at a show, with added FX? (assuming you had another box with a vocal preamp before it in the chain?)
I have not tried anything like that so I dont dare say... My spontaneous feeling is that it might not work great, I am worried that the input might easily distort... but its just "a feeling" since its not a proper mic input
@@BoBeats True. I often use Roland VT3 or other voice processor which includes a preamp, and then run it into my drum machine at Line Level. (The 404 does have a Mic / Guitar preamp input, so I'm going to try it out tonight at a venue!)
Great video ! Thanks Bob. Very appealing sweet piece of music-making. I'll grab one when the firmware update brings in individual pan, resampling, a possibility to refine the quantize (instead of on /off only) and the ability to record the punch-in fx, possibility to export not only the samples but a whole sequence. If they do that, then it will be close to perfection (aside from lacking an sd card slot).
If I didn't already own the SP-404 Mk2, the Digitakt and the Circuit Rhythm, this might tempt me. It looks really cool, but its limitations are not worth the price. Also there seem to be some build quality issues. A fader breaking, a speaker suddenly not working... Those things just shouldn't happen with a new device.
There is a little bit of me that wonders if this is why they didn't send this out to everyone first - sell out before the the build quality issues are apparent...
I look at this as a suped-up KO-33: portable and fun but not to be taken too seriously. Build quality and durability are of high importance for a portable unit, though, and I think the jury is still out on some issues like the fader contacts bending. Have there been other reports of the speaker going out? I am an early adopter, but there is a delay related to the shipping carrier delivering the first batch if units to the particular store I chose here in the US.
After Xmas, when I have some extra money. This WILL BE my first hardware music making device! Been looking for a quality,name brand, budget device that can play samples for easy fast music making fun.
Thank you very much for this video! It answered questions I had while digging through this bad boy I got yesterday. One thing I would love to see is 4 individual FX sends per group, without having to use destructive method of printing FX automation. Also, I don't think we can honestly be very critical of a $299 USD priced device haha, just my opinion.
It’s a very capable device. It can help you create anything if in the right hands. I picked up a couple and hope to get them soon so I can start a series on them. Great video BTW
still not nearly as powerful as the SP 404K that lets you punch in FX and run multiple FX at same time or on different samples and has resampling. I rather have the SP 404 MK2 than this toy. Still it is ok if they fix the broken slider and software issues.
I think it’s great! It addresses many of the weaknesses I think the original K.O. had, more samples, longer sequences. But curiously enough you can’t really arrange songs? And the sequencer is much more basic than on the original where you could get visual confirmation of your patterns. I really hope they change this in an update (and maybe and companion app!) It’s weird you can have 99 scenes but don’t link them or at least make the play in order. I just thought I hadn’t figured out how.
I think this is the best explanatory video on this product. You clearly show the interaction with the midi keyboard. But actually, it is not complete but in association with other machines it will add functionalities. Personally Verselab Mv1de Roland can make arrangements except that there is no effect. The most important thing is how do we recover what we have just composed? EVERY TRACK? or at least does it work with a DAW directly or connect the audio outputs of the EP 33 to an external audio interface?
Great job! Thank you for your work & honest opinion. I like the EP-133 very much and have two of them, both without fader or sticky button problems. The only thing I noticed is that the power switch on my second one needs way more pressure to switch. Greetings from Switzerland.
Hey Bo I have a KO II coming next week. What type of connection are the outputs for speakers/monitors and the input for sampling in? They look like single 3.5mm stereo in and out.. is that correct? I ask because I want to order the cables from Amazon before it arrives. Thanks!
The problems people are having with the fader are worrying. Lots of cancelled pre-orders. Some basic resampling and song mode would be welcome additions when they get that figured out.
I get groovebox vibes all over again. While this device is certainly good for having tons of fun playing around I think it suffers from being too powerful. Let me explain: You can record, arrange, add automation, add effects and do a lot more and even if you learn how to do all of that efficiently with just a few buttons you still end up with something you will propably replicate on a daw anyway to refine it further and master it in higher quality. You could use the KO2 just to record the basic outline of a track and then switch to a daw but all the features and the usability of this device will deceive you to continue going many more steps, none of which can be ported over to a daw. So either you challenge yourself to produce on the KO2 from start to finish (which sounds like a fun challenge, at least for a handful of tracks) or you will end up having to do work twice and work with two completely different user interfaces. This is why I sold my Korg Electribe, it was incredible fun and really powerful but it only makes sense for musical drafts because for everything else a daw is just so much more efficient and powerful.
I was tying to justify getting this, but I can't figure out how to integrate it into my DAW workflow, because I don't perform live. But, maybe if I did, I might be able to use something like this analog - style.
@@darrylthomas815 If I would consider doing live synth stuff I would much rather consider using Ableton with Push (and a handfull of other controllers with as many LEDs as possible).
Great video. I agree with you on everything. I’m enjoying mine it is very fun. It’s a shame you can’t record the punch in fx like the OG KO. Would have like to see how to delete a sample and or sample management since sampling is so easy.
I actually succeed recording the punch in fx just 5 minutes ago but since it's my first hour with the machine I have absolutely no clue of how I did it but I did it !
Good review mate, glad you're not gushing like some just because it's TE. It looks fun but that's all I think. Doesn't look deep enough to keep you interested long term. I'd be tempted but don't trust TE build quality, wonder if these are going to warp like the opz?
This supersedes my beloved Circuit Rhythm but also gives me hope Novation will make a supercharged Circuit one day, i.e. 16-tracks wide and polyphonic and combining both the Tracks and Rhythm functionality.
I don't think it's that clear. I mean the KOII cannot resample at all - that's a huge drawback. And I might be misunderstanding, but it sounded like you could not sequence or record the punch in FX. Resampling on the Circuit Rhythm ticks both these boxes. But I agree, I held off from buying the Rhythm for ages because I thought they had to be working on its successor, and I hope they do release something. But I think it needs to be a pure sampler. I'm not a fan of the Circuit synth engine and they're so cheap easy to sync that you may as well use both together. I'd like to see stereo sampling, longer samples memory, timestretching and polyphonic tracks.
Great vid! I agree there's a lot of hype. However, I could be wrong but I really think it will suit me well. I might just have been duped by the hype 😂 very sorry I missed the first round. Guess I'll be waiting months
Thanks a lot Bo! Nice device, yes, but I guess I´d stick to my SP 404 MKII. Nevertheless: I like the workflow and I am sure it is a typical device for having fun on the road.
Hi, Great video! Can I ask what cables you have used to connect the Keystep 37 to the EP-133? It looks like a 5pin midi to TRS, but do you also need the usb connection? Thank you!! (…looking to add a keyboard to my new ep-133 purchase!).
Really cool to see this little box in action. If I didn't have my eye on a Syntakt as my next piece of gear, I'd think about dropping the money for this and giving it a shot. I'm pleasantly surprised by the price point too, if I'm honest. Thanks for another great video!
Imo if you don’t own a sampler… would definitely suggest starting with one over Syntakt. I love my Syntakt, but it has much more of it’s own identity and sound that not everyone gels with. Don’t get me wrong Syntakt is great alone and with other gear… just wouldn’t be something I’d start with.
@@GregBolton nice! I was surprised how much I love it… it’s a mono sampler and while that is a limitation…. the sequencer and general sound of it make it worthwhile imo. I use it mostly for drums. If you dig the syntakt workflow it will only take a few minutes to be off and running. Very similar. Has a decent compressor so some like to run other audio through. Good luck.
Bo love your videos. Do you have a favourite "groovebox"? I'm torn between the ko ii, the sp404, and several others. An all around box for the hobbyist.
If you want only one, an all in one box, I’d say Maschine+ (or MPC if you feel that one more!). If you want a more limited but fun creative sampler: digitakt or ko2. Ko2 has poly sample playback and digitakt a better sequencer. Those are my three favs right now! Oh and Op-1 Field. But that one is so expensive its not really a serious option
I think we can have step recording like original POs, just use the 4x4 grid of keys.. A,B,C,D will be the downbeats and 0-9, ., enter will be the 16ths
I’m sure they can add this in an update. Some key combination to enter that PO / X0X entry mode.. How great would it be tabbing through pages or bar with the +/- keys! A 99 bar step entry for some awesome drum programming
How do you rate this thing as a straight up drum machine? Pitty about the step recording set up good for live i guess?Id like to step sequence patterns on maybe the RD8 and have this hanging off the side and i could do live percussion loops and stufF? How is everyone thinking of using this i wonder ? comments welcome :)
Check KO 2 in stores here + BIG Q&A BELOW
EU: thmn.to/thoprod/580267?offid=1&affid=623
US: bit.ly/40ZtGBE
UK: tidd.ly/3GfYnZt
Affiliate links support the channel at no cost to you, regardless of what you buy
Q: How is the speaker's sound quality?
A: It is not great. The click of the buttons can easily overpower sounds
Q: How is KO2 vs Model:Samples
A: Model Samples is not a sampler but a sample player with very deep sequencer compared to the KO2. The K.O 2 however can play back samples polyphonically and sample, and has a totally different feel to it. So similar in price, not in function. Watch my MS here: th-cam.com/video/_Hr-8jzlpCk/w-d-xo.html
Q: Can I use the performance/punch in FX on external audio
A: No. Only the send fx (chorus, delay, reverb, distortion, filter, compressor)
Q: Song mode
A: No, doesn’t seem to have a song mode unless I totally misunderstood something
Q: Is it a Sp-404 killer?
A: Watch the video and the answer should be an obvious NO. For some this is a better device due to its simplicity, but the SP404 mk2 has much deeper sampling capabilities and a screen that lets you actually see the waveform. It can also resample and that is a BIG part of its eco system. Watch my review of the SP-404 here: th-cam.com/video/B6oWrtVMxck/w-d-xo.html
Q: Is it worth 299?
A: While I don't think its crazy affordable (it is just crazy affordable compared to usual TE prices) it is worth the money I think.
Q: If I have SP404mk2, Digitakt and/or Circuit Rhythm do you think I need this?
A: Except for polyphonic sample playback I think there's a lot of overlap. Give it some thought before buying! How many samplers do you need?
Q: How do you export your music?
A: No export that I could find. Only stereo recording thru the output. USB is for MIDI and not audio according to the manual.
I’ll add more Q’a and A’s as I get more questions…
I'm becoming a groovebox collector but I've had hard time wrapping my head around patterns and sequences. I find with this unit I finally understand these basics that I can now apply to my Circuit Tracks and Rhythm and MC101. It's less menu diving to get to the place that you need to be. It may not be the best unit on the market but it's a great gateway into these machines. Very fun.
I'm not convinced either that it's the one sampler to rule them all. However, I must say that your channel might be the one to rule them all! :) You always have the most in-depth and balanced reviews so when new gear comes out, you are pretty much the first channel on my list! Thanks much & cheers from USA!
Thank you!!
Octatrack: "You'll never remember how to use me."
404 mk2: "Yes I could do that but you'll have to jump through these hoops first."
Digitakt: "Nah you don't need stereo."
KO2: "Re- what now?"
straight up. my OG zoom sampletrak better than 90% of samplers out there now. newly a 1010 blackbox user and i think it's the best thing out right now, despite being out 4 years at this point
SmplTrek: "Why do I never get added to these lists?"
digitakt doesn't have stereo? seems like at least the samples do from what ive heard?
Digitakt samples are mono, but they can be panned to the stereo outputs, like most drum machines. You can't sample in stereo though, that's the limitation.@@d3maccus
Roland P6.. “hold my hat”
You came out with this one fast! Great to be able to watch while waiting for mine to come in the mail. I appreciated hearing the pros and cons.
Hey @BoBeats! I'm only half-way through this video, but this has been the best instructional out of many I've watched thus-far.
Seeing so many changes in real-time, only to be capable of practicing it on my own K.O. II has been wonderful for building muscle memory.
Thanks so much for the breakdown, and precise explanations. You're killing it out here. Keep it up, and I look forward to more!
Thanks Bo! A wonderful explainer of what to expect! Well done!
Thanks buddy! For everything over the years ♥️
Bo your music is really advancing! I’m loving the tracks you’re creating in this vid!
Thank you!
Yeah really great stuff in this ep
Thank you all! I think you'd be surprised if you heard some of my old music. I just never really had time to make great songs for my videos. Never been the goal either really as it's a balancing act between showing something "as it is" and not "convincing you thru a produced demo". It's also been a lot of work just learning how to make videos (which I had zero experience of when I started). I totally hear the feedback and will try hard to add good song demos in the future too.
@@BoBeats Keep doing what you're doing man. We are stoked and complimenting you... hehe... ;)
@@BoBeats And yes, I hear you. It's so much to learn! I'm spinning my wheels but am very dedicated to producing more content and getting my stuff off the ground this year. If you want a little apprentice, cheerleader, video editor who you can hold accountable and inspire to do her own thing also, let me know! I do have some good skills producing content for others!
Thanks Bo. The video I was waiting for! Answered a lot of questions other TH-camrs didn’t answer!
It's much larger in person than I had expected. With the design aesthetic, I was thinking it would be around half that size. (I'm actually happy it's larger)
are you liking it? i think i would use it off another drum machine
@@GullySyde28I was responding to the video. :) Mine hasn't yet arrived, but I did order one, and I don't usually care for TE stuff.
This is a great video, and very helpful as well with learning the device. Everybody remember to take a break and instead of carving out time for music, carve out time for the people you love most. Or, share the device with them. My Four year old laughed while playing with it 😅
This looks like it’s supposed to come with Prodigy, KMFDM, and Atari Teenage Riot stickers all over it
It IS limited for sure, but I’m surprised that it can play samples polyphonically - something the Digitakt or Octatrack cannot. So, that’s interesting.
Yepp a big plus!
So a multiplexer is now something to be excited about , 12 mono voices is pretty dire
I needed a sane review of it. the pluses and minuses. I knew we could depend on you telling it like it is. Thanks!!
Thank you for this. Best intro to the device so far.
Looking forward to even more swedish music gear on my (IKEA) desk. Your country is pretty well represented here, Bo.
Been watching your videos for years and this is finally something after years of wanting an op1 that is in my price range! Just put my order in and am excited for my first piece of gear!
I'm predicting that they will make another version of this based on the P0-20 arcade, with a synth engine, kind of like how there's the Circuit Rhythm and Circuit Tracks
Would make sense
Yeah, Cuckoo did mention that is is a “platform.”
Would be rad! I'd definitely get the Vocals one if they ever do it.
It says Series on the back.
A po 128 is my bet it would basicly be a novation circut
Awesome video. Can it not resample with a stereo cable going from headphones out to audio input?
Would that not just generate feedback?
No i dont think that works
I am new to such devices and music. But loved this! do you suggest a complete beginner to start with this one? thanks for the video.
Great video Bo, appreciate how you showed making a groove on it and the pros/cons at the end
Watching videos on this machine is inducing GAS for the SP 404, great stuff Bo!
Bo! Selectahhh! Great and honest review. Im waiting for mine to arrive as i collect all types of samplers 😊
AH YES I was waiting for the BoBeats demo of this! As always you've convinced me its awesome 🤤
I came very close to ordering this, based almost entirely on the aesthetics of the thing (it's undeniably cool looking) but also the prospect of a rather useful/inspiring 'toy' to play with when I don't feel like getting stuck into a big project. Kiiinda glad I held out though. I realised an upgrade to K14 Collector's Edition was about £40 cheaper than the KOII and I got *so* many packs for my Maschine MK3 I think it'll scratch that itch for a while. If - big if - I have 300 bucks literally spare, I would still like one to have on the coffee table in my living room, or to use in bed. But right now I can do without it. Also hopefully they'll get to the bottom of some of the construction/quality issues too. By which time it'll no doubt be 3x more expensive to get one lol
I impulsively ordered one on launch and just broke even reselling it on eBay. It's definitely overhyped, koala sampler app does the same if not more. I would agree with the coffee table idea, but only if the speaker was better quality. The one thats in it is so bad you can barely hear half the kicks/bass samples, and Im not surprised Bo's just straight up broke.
Yeah GAS Therapy put me on to Koala and it scratched the itch pretty well. Even has probability per event, which is really nice. Sorry to hear you didn't have a great experience though. Definitely glad I held off.
@@slvshy666
Great video. Finally set up my midi keyboard to it - but I can only play single notes and not chords - am I doing something wrong here!
Hey! You have to set up the specific pad to a midi channel, sound has to be in KEY mode (shift+sound to go to edit menu) and you have to have pressed the KEY button I think to engage the chromatic/poly mode for that pad
Got super excited when you brought in the midi keyboard. 🔥
I'm ok with this not having song mode, because even on Elektron grooveboxes I like to manually perform my songs and switch patterns on the fly. But I would have REALLY appreciated audio over USB. I hope it's possible for them to add audio over USB in a software update or something.
elektrons wait for the pattern to end (at least the digitakt does) as far as I've seen the ko2 does not do this, which is odd because the original KO does
This is my main gripe, lack of usb audio. Not just because I’m lazy and don’t want to whip out an audio interface, but also because I want to be able to export stems/separate tracks. I’m not giving TE $1100 for their little portable recorder machine just so I can record a two-track master out on it.
@@avrilcadabraboth the elektrons and this both let you switch in you want it to play too the end or suddenly.. They both let you decide just fyi.
Thank you for an outstanding review and demonstration. I am far, far away, from your ability as a musician, but it is great to see what this machine can do in skilled hands. Mine is being shipped.
Great job on the video, as usual. Always liked your informative, level-headed style and you playing the f*ck out of anything you get your hands on. We're lucky to have a great reviewer (and teacher) like you!
Thank you!
Can I do my maths on it?
I tried to balance my checkbook, and it played the sad trombone.😢
Honestly it's a missed opportunity to not have included a basic calculator
Exactly I saw this on Facebook for days and kept scrolling because I thought it was just a calculator or something lol
This function could only be implemented by MakeNoise.
Maths???? Oh I get it...Urban talk 😢
well that jam round 4mins mark slapped!
Great vid, Bo!! Looking forward to programming beats on mine on the go
Resampling seems like a must have on something like this! Looks really cool
very close clear and well recorded.good work. thank you
I've been shopping for a decent sampler. The EP133 KO II sold out so I bought a Roland SP404 MKII instead. Waiting for it to arrive....I don't think I will be disappointed although I would have jumped on the EP133 KO II if it had not sold out so quickly....and I didn't want to wait for the next batch to become available.
I think you made a good choice from what I’ve seen the workflow is nice but the overall quality isn’t on par with the Roland 🙏
Got mine Friday - also thanks to Cuckoo! Loving it so far Bo.
Love that you're taking a teacher's approach with notes on paper. Feels authentic and I'm sure it's easier for yourself too. Just a small little detail that I appreciated about this review.
The sampler isn't for me though. Pretty, but too limited. 😊
Sometimes having limits is a good thing
Great video Bo!,,,thanks for sharing your thoughts👍
i' m looking forward to you doing more videos with this little box of tricks.🙏
I hope it´s coming soon. Thanx for the nice explained video. Very sympathetic.
holy moly your tunes are so good - when does the album drop???
EP-133 reminds me of MPC500 that I had back in the days. Same 12 pads, fader that you can assign FX and other things to, battery powered, banks of sounds, Scenes (same as sequences on MPC). MPC500 was built like a tank and the price was higher even back then - I got mine for $699 in 2007 (I think it's with discount) which translates to $1100 now. EP-133 has easier workflow but has less features for sure.
I agree EP-133 is the cheaper, easier, smaller version of MPC lite that we needed.
What a great tutorial. One of the best I've seen since this device has come out!! Very thorough and informative. Thank you. Mine is in the mail.
by far this is my favorite demo of this device. i love your choice of samples when you showcased the midi keyboard, cant wait for mine to arrive
I actually find the step recording to be very simple. It's kind how I visualize ableton to begin with.
It's a combination of a Casio Calculator and a Roland Sampler
I’m hoping this will get as much love & firmware updates as Novation gave the Circuit! That device just about doubled its functionality in the years after its first release.
Not being able to simply play through your scenes in sequence without manually having to switch is a deal breaker for me, especially since the work flow pictures imply that you can play through your 'song'..
Many thanks for your video. After the initial hype of (generally good) reviews I thought to myself I’ll probably wait a few months for T.E. To sort out the problems out, now I don’t think I’ll bother! Looks like my search for a new sampler continues!
Its a fun device (if you get one that works!) but its not a must have I think. But fun!
Thank you for the video!
For me personally the KO2 is highly portable device and I like it. BUT: For such portable device I would need a Bluetooth (for headphones) AND rechargeable battery (USB-C) instead of AAA batteries
add a usb battery bank
blu tooth headphone have too much latency - would be stupid idea for a music instrument -blu tooth headphones are only for listening pre recorded songs.
so rad, epic explanation. I'ma own one someday but I'm in no rush what with having the SP. This seems fun but wanna focus on mastering the SP before jumping onto something else. Also I have the OPZ and that's already like a suped up pocket operator imo
Actually, it Seems almost like an updated SP-303...vs the 404 mkii competitor some might think it is...the inability to chain sequences...most will prob use in conjunction with a daw these days, as most people tend to with these limited feature groove box samplers, so, they may have just assumed as much and figured sequencing in daw will suffice. The fact that it's only 300$, given what it CAN do, is probably it's biggest selling point, allowing those folks, especially younger beatmakers, with limited resources, to enter into the realm of sampling, with an at least "semi pro" level sampler, that has some contemporary features, versus the previous KO, or perhaps a hard to find, potentially wonky, SP-202, or some other, older, far less functional groove box sampler for a similar price...I could totally see my 16 yr old, and her band, having a blast with this..
I like the idea of the parameters just being graphically represented, not relying on numbers but on the sound you’re creating.
The step recording is basically the same as my Boss DR660 from 1992. Made me feel a bit nostalgic.
I would love to see a video about how the KO II and your OP1 Field are working together for you! Are you able to unlock any exciting new workflows?
20:00 btw - Re: Audio-In - How does the sound clarity compare to SP404? Do you think it's clean enough to run a live vocalist through at a show, with added FX? (assuming you had another box with a vocal preamp before it in the chain?)
I have not tried anything like that so I dont dare say... My spontaneous feeling is that it might not work great, I am worried that the input might easily distort... but its just "a feeling" since its not a proper mic input
@@BoBeats True. I often use Roland VT3 or other voice processor which includes a preamp, and then run it into my drum machine at Line Level. (The 404 does have a Mic / Guitar preamp input, so I'm going to try it out tonight at a venue!)
Great video ! Thanks Bob. Very appealing sweet piece of music-making. I'll grab one when the firmware update brings in individual pan, resampling, a possibility to refine the quantize (instead of on /off only) and the ability to record the punch-in fx, possibility to export not only the samples but a whole sequence. If they do that, then it will be close to perfection (aside from lacking an sd card slot).
All good suggestions for FW updates imo!
You CAN refine quantize. You select TIMING and the orange knob lets u adjust that. The black knob lets u adjust the swing.
If I didn't already own the SP-404 Mk2, the Digitakt and the Circuit Rhythm, this might tempt me. It looks really cool, but its limitations are not worth the price.
Also there seem to be some build quality issues. A fader breaking, a speaker suddenly not working... Those things just shouldn't happen with a new device.
Anecdotal evidence is compelling but useless.
@@ZenMountain
What's that suppose to mean?
There is a little bit of me that wonders if this is why they didn't send this out to everyone first - sell out before the the build quality issues are apparent...
The fader not working on more than one machine is a serious flaw.
The keys don’t look very durable either.
I’ll wait to see how many QC issues arise.
I look at this as a suped-up KO-33: portable and fun but not to be taken too seriously. Build quality and durability are of high importance for a portable unit, though, and I think the jury is still out on some issues like the fader contacts bending. Have there been other reports of the speaker going out? I am an early adopter, but there is a delay related to the shipping carrier delivering the first batch if units to the particular store I chose here in the US.
After Xmas, when I have some extra money. This WILL BE my first hardware music making device! Been looking for a quality,name brand, budget device that can play samples for easy fast music making fun.
Thank you very much for this video! It answered questions I had while digging through this bad boy I got yesterday. One thing I would love to see is 4 individual FX sends per group, without having to use destructive method of printing FX automation.
Also, I don't think we can honestly be very critical of a $299 USD priced device haha, just my opinion.
Trevlig video. bra jobbat 👍
I have seen one of those at work, on a shelf somewhere. It has a paper roll attached to it, no idea what it does really. People say it is outdated.
Outdated or not its still great for taxes tho!
Fantastic presentation Bo. Thanks.
It’s a very capable device. It can help you create anything if in the right hands. I picked up a couple and hope to get them soon so I can start a series on them. Great video BTW
still not nearly as powerful as the SP 404K that lets you punch in FX and run multiple FX at same time or on different samples and has resampling. I rather have the SP 404 MK2 than this toy. Still it is ok if they fix the broken slider and software issues.
can you sell me one of them? i tried to buy one but they were sold out.
Very nice review with good sounds, thx ❤
great video! can you record tracks separately into a DAW for mixing later via USB like the way Elektron Overbridge works?
No
I think it’s great! It addresses many of the weaknesses I think the original K.O. had, more samples, longer sequences. But curiously enough you can’t really arrange songs? And the sequencer is much more basic than on the original where you could get visual confirmation of your patterns. I really hope they change this in an update (and maybe and companion app!) It’s weird you can have 99 scenes but don’t link them or at least make the play in order. I just thought I hadn’t figured out how.
It will get added eventually.. you just have to be patient, thru know what they need to do with this.
I think this is the best explanatory video on this product. You clearly show the interaction with the midi keyboard. But actually, it is not complete but in association with other machines it will add functionalities.
Personally Verselab Mv1de Roland can make arrangements except that there is no effect.
The most important thing is how do we recover what we have just composed? EVERY TRACK? or at least does it work with a DAW directly or connect the audio outputs of the EP 33 to an external audio interface?
You have to record the audio output. No audio over usb currently. Maybe they can add it.
I can't stop looking at it. It's such a compelling object.
Why are the samples pitched down right after sampling at 20:03 and up at 21:08 & 22:20? Is it influenced by the fader position?
Its because the default setting for the pads is playing back the sample at a different key, you can change this
it looks like a very fun little device and quite affordable, I'll probably pick one up at some point
thanks for the rundown Bo
thanks for showing me some new gear this cold Sunday
Great job! Thank you for your work & honest opinion. I like the EP-133 very much and have two of them, both without fader or sticky button problems. The only thing I noticed is that the power switch on my second one needs way more pressure to switch. Greetings from Switzerland.
Two of them?! Damn! 😅👌
@@BoBeats With two of them you can resample! 😅
Nice! Best tutorial online so far.
And I agree, let's hope a future firmware update includes an arpeggiator!
Very much. Your demonstrations are pleasur. 👍
Hey Bo I have a KO II coming next week. What type of connection are the outputs for speakers/monitors and the input for sampling in? They look like single 3.5mm stereo in and out.. is that correct? I ask because I want to order the cables from Amazon before it arrives. Thanks!
Correct. 3.5 mm stereo for input and output and you also need a midi adapter (3.5 to din midi)
You did a pretty good job of chopping up a sample!
Nice sho Bo. The TE product looks very sharp, Elsi mate EL desktop calcullator Sharp!
Gratitude is riches. Complaint is poverty.
3:33 Bo goes INDUSTRIAL!
Hi, great vid! What mic is this? Thanks
I agree with your assessment…it's FUN!
Keep up the great work on your channel!
The problems people are having with the fader are worrying. Lots of cancelled pre-orders.
Some basic resampling and song mode would be welcome additions when they get that figured out.
I get groovebox vibes all over again. While this device is certainly good for having tons of fun playing around I think it suffers from being too powerful. Let me explain: You can record, arrange, add automation, add effects and do a lot more and even if you learn how to do all of that efficiently with just a few buttons you still end up with something you will propably replicate on a daw anyway to refine it further and master it in higher quality. You could use the KO2 just to record the basic outline of a track and then switch to a daw but all the features and the usability of this device will deceive you to continue going many more steps, none of which can be ported over to a daw. So either you challenge yourself to produce on the KO2 from start to finish (which sounds like a fun challenge, at least for a handful of tracks) or you will end up having to do work twice and work with two completely different user interfaces. This is why I sold my Korg Electribe, it was incredible fun and really powerful but it only makes sense for musical drafts because for everything else a daw is just so much more efficient and powerful.
I was tying to justify getting this, but I can't figure out how to integrate it into my DAW workflow, because I don't perform live. But, maybe if I did, I might be able to use something like this analog - style.
@@darrylthomas815 If I would consider doing live synth stuff I would much rather consider using Ableton with Push (and a handfull of other controllers with as many LEDs as possible).
Really loved your review, I will definitely be getting one at some point!
Great video. I agree with you on everything. I’m enjoying mine it is very fun. It’s a shame you can’t record the punch in fx like the OG KO. Would have like to see how to delete a sample and or sample management since sampling is so easy.
I actually succeed recording the punch in fx just 5 minutes ago but since it's my first hour with the machine I have absolutely no clue of how I did it but I did it !
Good review mate, glad you're not gushing like some just because it's TE. It looks fun but that's all I think. Doesn't look deep enough to keep you interested long term. I'd be tempted but don't trust TE build quality, wonder if these are going to warp like the opz?
i'd really like to see a comparison between the ep-133 and the circuit rhythm.
Not a bad idea!
@@BoBeats Being a Circuit user, if you had to sell one, which one would you keep?
I second this!
This supersedes my beloved Circuit Rhythm but also gives me hope Novation will make a supercharged Circuit one day, i.e. 16-tracks wide and polyphonic and combining both the Tracks and Rhythm functionality.
I don't think it's that clear. I mean the KOII cannot resample at all - that's a huge drawback. And I might be misunderstanding, but it sounded like you could not sequence or record the punch in FX. Resampling on the Circuit Rhythm ticks both these boxes. But I agree, I held off from buying the Rhythm for ages because I thought they had to be working on its successor, and I hope they do release something. But I think it needs to be a pure sampler. I'm not a fan of the Circuit synth engine and they're so cheap easy to sync that you may as well use both together. I'd like to see stereo sampling, longer samples memory, timestretching and polyphonic tracks.
love this little machine, but especially the fact that it looks remarkably similar to an old school 10 key, paper roll and all.
Eventually, the hype will "fade".
😅👌
Great vid! I agree there's a lot of hype. However, I could be wrong but I really think it will suit me well. I might just have been duped by the hype 😂 very sorry I missed the first round. Guess I'll be waiting months
Just got one unopened second hand 😂😂😂
Can I make IDM on it? vs model cycles?
Since the sequencer doesnt allow for polyrythms i think Cycles is better
@@BoBeats thank you! Great video as always!!🙌
I always like to see what Mr Eats has to say about a machine before I make a purchase. You’ve become a TH-cam legend my man
Thanks buddy! 10 years next year
Thanks a lot Bo! Nice device, yes, but I guess I´d stick to my SP 404 MKII. Nevertheless: I like the workflow and I am sure it is a typical device for having fun on the road.
Hi, Great video! Can I ask what cables you have used to connect the Keystep 37 to the EP-133? It looks like a 5pin midi to TRS, but do you also need the usb connection? Thank you!! (…looking to add a keyboard to my new ep-133 purchase!).
Really cool to see this little box in action. If I didn't have my eye on a Syntakt as my next piece of gear, I'd think about dropping the money for this and giving it a shot. I'm pleasantly surprised by the price point too, if I'm honest.
Thanks for another great video!
Imo if you don’t own a sampler… would definitely suggest starting with one over Syntakt. I love my Syntakt, but it has much more of it’s own identity and sound that not everyone gels with. Don’t get me wrong Syntakt is great alone and with other gear… just wouldn’t be something I’d start with.
Not contradicting you, but I started with it and love it, fwiw. But yeah, it’s different for sure!
@@GregBolton nice… I have 6 elektrons and they are all great together or on their own. I still use other stuff too… not just Elektron. Good luck!
@@dracul74 Now mind you, a Digitakt is right at the top of my list of things to get next!
@@GregBolton nice! I was surprised how much I love it… it’s a mono sampler and while that is a limitation…. the sequencer and general sound of it make it worthwhile imo. I use it mostly for drums. If you dig the syntakt workflow it will only take a few minutes to be off and running. Very similar. Has a decent compressor so some like to run other audio through. Good luck.
Bo love your videos. Do you have a favourite "groovebox"? I'm torn between the ko ii, the sp404, and several others. An all around box for the hobbyist.
If you want only one, an all in one box, I’d say Maschine+ (or MPC if you feel that one more!).
If you want a more limited but fun creative sampler: digitakt or ko2. Ko2 has poly sample playback and digitakt a better sequencer.
Those are my three favs right now! Oh and Op-1 Field. But that one is so expensive its not really a serious option
I think we can have step recording like original POs, just use the 4x4 grid of keys.. A,B,C,D will be the downbeats and 0-9, ., enter will be the 16ths
I’m sure they can add this in an update. Some key combination to enter that PO / X0X entry mode.. How great would it be tabbing through pages or bar with the +/- keys! A 99 bar step entry for some awesome drum programming
How do you rate this thing as a straight up drum machine? Pitty about the step recording set up good for live i guess?Id like to step sequence patterns on maybe the RD8 and have this hanging off the side and i could do live percussion loops and stufF? How is everyone thinking of using this i wonder ? comments welcome :)