OP-1 — Teenage Engineering

Manual (PDF)

Report a problem

Description

The OP-1 from Teenage Engineering is described as an all-in-one portable synthesizer, sampler and controller. It combines multiple engines, built-in sequencing, four-track tape recording, and a color-coded interface designed for intuitive control. The device offers USB connectivity for audio, MIDI, and mass-storage transfer, enabling direct audio streaming and plug-and-play file transfer when connected to a computer. Key features highlighted in verified facts include thirteen synthesizer engines, seven effects, and routable LFOs, plus a four-track tape feature with overdub capability and tape speed modification. The unit supports USB MIDI and USB audio, as well as line in/line out jacks and a 3.5 mm stereo input/output, with headset microphone support on the stereo output. It runs on a rechargeable battery with reported long life, and a compact form factor that emphasizes portability. Typical use cases implied by the facts center on portable music creation and live control. The OP-1 is positioned as a versatile studio-in-a-pocket device, capable of acting as a field system for sound design, with the ability to synchronize with other gear via MIDI over USB and to stream audio over USB. The device is associated with a distinctive workflow that favors hands-on control and on-the-go music production.

Price

Vintage / discontinuedUsed · €725.77

Used listings

Region
Condition
Providers

This application uses the Reverb API but is not endorsed, created by or certified by Reverb.com, LLC.

Checking listing freshness…

Video resources

Bad Gear - Teenage Engineering OP-1 - Modern Vintage???

Bad Gear - Teenage Engineering OP-1 - Modern Vintage???

AudioPilz

4 years ago

"I'M A DUDE!" — OP-1 Chill Remix of RDJ in Tropic Thunder

"I'M A DUDE!" — OP-1 Chill Remix of RDJ in Tropic Thunder

Yuri Wong

8 years ago

OP-1: I brought Teenage Engineering's classic synth to Berlin and asked everyone about it

OP-1: I brought Teenage Engineering's classic synth to Berlin and asked everyone about it

David Hilowitz Music

last year

Massive New Firmware for the Teenage Engineering OP-1

Massive New Firmware for the Teenage Engineering OP-1

The Unperson

18 hours ago

Teenage Engineering OP-1 | Introduction

Teenage Engineering OP-1 | Introduction

Red Means Recording

6 years ago

Teenage Engineering OP1 Demo

Teenage Engineering OP1 Demo

Subhifi

8 years ago

See more videos on YouTube

Specifications & connections

Report a problem

Year
2011

Official website

Connections

ConnectionDirectionConnector
USBBIDIRMini-USB · MIDI
Audio inputINNot specified
Audio outputOUT3.5mm TRS

User reviews

Report a problem

AI synthesis of sourced user experiences

The OP-1 is praised for its high-quality construction, portable design, and battery-powered mobility that supports on-the-go music making, though reviewers note its high price and question its target audience.

Strengths

  • Excellent build quality
  • Highly portable with long battery life in practice
  • Fun and inspiring to use

Limitations

  • Very expensive for the perceived value
  • Unclear target audience; some users feel the price is hard to justify

AI summary of a source review

Audiofanzine user reviews (aggregated)

Report a problem

Summary: OP-1 is praised for build quality, distinctive design, and portability, with strong ergonomic controls and 4-channel capabilities; criticisms focus on high price, limited 4-track workflow, and some users finding the sound character overly digital. Real user comments highlight its battery life, ease of transport, and enjoyable, creative workflow, while some reviews note value for money concerns and learning curve.

AI summary of a source review

FlavieUltranova

Report a problem

The reviewer describes being drawn to the OP-1 by its top-tier ergonomics, battery life for portable composing, multiple synthesis engines, and overall potential for creative play; later notes the device is an engineering marvel.

FAQ

Report a problem

What is the OP-1 and what makes it notable?

OP-1 is an all-in-one portable synthesizer, sampler and controller with multiple features like built-in FM radio, G-force motion sensing, 13 engines, 7 effects and 4-track tape; it’s described as the portable wonder synthesizer with a unique, intuitive interface.

Report a problem

Articles & guides