Synth Shenanigans with AndertonsKeyboardDept: Pocket Operators Unleashed!

Kicking off with a casual intro, Jack Duxbury from AndertonsKeyboardDept throws us into the world of Teenage Engineering’s Pocket Operators. These budget-friendly devices might look like stripped-down calculators, but as Jack recounts his journey from skepticism to full-on P.O. love, it’s clear these gadgets pack a punch. Initially roasted by the internet for dismissing them, he now swears by his trio – the KO, Speak, and Tonic models – claiming they’ve converted him into a believer.

The PO-32 Tonic struts its stuff as Jack highlights its drum synthesis capabilities. It’s a drum machine with 12 pads, each hosting a sound engine. This baby lets you tweak with A and B knobs, creating unique hi-hat and kick nuances. Standout moment? Beam in new sounds from software, a unique feature in the whole operator line. Jack demonstrates his sync setup, showing how the Tonic gels with other devices, like the KO2, to create rhythm magic. With effects that make bowling with bumpers feel like Pro League, the Tonic transforms beats with synchronous flair and taps into new sonic realms.

Switching gears to the PO-35 Speak, Jack shares its unexpected charm. Initially deemed the least useful, it’s now a favorite. Speech synthesis with auto-tune transforms vocals into catchy riffs. Jack even ropes Oz into singing a sultry R&B lick, demonstrating the Speak’s capacity for whimsical auto-tune magic. The Speak’s workflow appeals to ad-lib fans and pros alike, turning casual jams into studio-ready material. Jack’s tip? Play with format and pitch, unlocking a playground for improvisation and creativity.

Up next, the PO-33 KO!, an entry-level sampler worth its weight in gold. This mini MPC allows for direct sampling via its line input or built-in mic. With its lo-fi charm, you can sample anything from your phone or other sound sources, transfer melodic bits to the drum section, and slice it into 16 delectable pieces. Jack digs the hip-hop sample chopping capabilities, noting its grime is reminiscent of early Wu-Tang tracks. For those on the hunt for versatility, couple it with other operators for a swanky sound pallette.