OP-1 FAQ
25 answers to the most common questions about the Teenage Engineering OP-1. Can't find what you need? Ask the AI.
How do I record to tape?
Recording to tape on the OP-1 is straightforward. You select a sound, choose a track, set your level, and press REC + Play to start recording....
What are the tape tricks?
The OP-1 has eight tape tricks accessed by keys 1-8 on the right side when in Tape mode. These are quick-access functions for creative tape manipulati...
How do I sample a sound?
# How do I sample a sound?...
How do I use the sequencer?
The OP-1 has six different sequencers that record and play back note patterns (not audio). Each sequencer works differently, giving you various ways t...
How do I save a sound?
To save a sound in synth or drum mode, hold down one of the sound keys (1-8 on the right side) for about 5 seconds. The sound will be saved to that pr...
How do I unlock the hidden synth?
The OP-1 doesn't have a "hidden synth" that can be unlocked through button combinations or secret codes. All 10 synthesizer engines are available from...
How do I use the mixer?
The Mixer is the final stage of the OP-1's sound path where you balance tracks, shape tone, and add effects before outputting to headphones or speaker...
How do I use the EQ?
The EQ is a three-band equalizer that affects your final stereo mix. It's located in Mixer mode and shapes the overall sound before it reaches the mas...
How do I overdub on tape?
Tape always overdubs on existing material by default. Just select a track, press record, and play. Your new performance layers on top of what's alread...
How do I use the FM synth?
The FM synth on the OP-1 is a frequency modulation engine inspired by classic FM synthesizers like the DX7. It's selected under the synth engines menu...
How do I use the Tombola sequencer?
The Tombola sequencer uses physics simulation to create random, bouncing note patterns. Press keyboard keys to drop notes into a virtual container whe...
How do I use the Finger sequencer?
The Finger sequencer lets you create and play two different patterns, switching between them by holding different white keys on the keyboard....
How do I use the Arpeggio sequencer?
The Arpeggio sequencer distributes notes from a held chord across time, creating arpeggiated patterns automatically....
How do I use the Endless sequencer?
The Endless sequencer is a quick, linear sequencer for creating melodic patterns. Hold SHIFT and press keyboard keys to insert notes, and the sequence...
How do I connect via USB?
Connect your OP-1 to a computer using a USB mini-B cable (the port is on the right side of the device). Once connected, press SHIFT + COM to enter USB...
How do I use the FM radio?
The FM radio is an input source on the OP-1 that you can use for sampling or recording. It receives stations from 64-108 MHz....
How do I use the LFO?
The LFO (low frequency oscillator) modulates parameters over time to create rhythmic or evolving effects. It's found in both Synth and Drum modes unde...
How do I change tempo and sync?
Press the Tempo key (metronome icon, top left) to access tempo and sync settings....
How do I use Album mode?
Album mode lets you mix down your 4-track tape recordings to a final stereo file. It's essentially your export function, capturing everything from the...
How do I use the OP-1 as a MIDI controller?
# How do I use the OP-1 as a MIDI controller?...
How do I import my own samples?
# How do I import my own samples?...
How do I use the D-Box drum engine?
The D-Box is a dual oscillator drum synthesizer engine in Drum mode, designed for creating synthetic percussion sounds from scratch rather than using ...
How do I use Drive in the master out?
# How do I use Drive in the master out?...
What's the best workflow for beginners?
Start by getting comfortable with the basic recording chain: pick a synth sound, record to tape, then experiment with the mixer. This mirrors how most...
How do I backup my OP-1?
To backup your OP-1, connect it to your computer via USB and enter disk mode by pressing SHIFT + COM (the album key on the right side)....