How do I use the OP-1 as a MIDI controller?

OP-1tutorialguide
By ivan.codes·Updated Apr 2026·Official OP-1 Guide ↗

# How do I use the OP-1 as a MIDI controller?

Connect your OP-1 to a computer via USB, then press SHIFT + COM (the album key) and select T2 for Controller Mode. The OP-1 will now send MIDI data from its keyboard and encoders to your DAW or other MIDI software.

Setting Up Controller Mode

  1. 1.Press SHIFT + COM to access the COM menu
  2. 2.Press T2 to select Controller Mode
  3. 3.Use SHIFT + Green encoder to change the MIDI channel (1-16)
  4. 4.Press COM again to exit the menu

Encoder Behavior

Use SHIFT + each encoder to toggle between relative and absolute modes. Relative mode sends incremental values suitable for parameter adjustment, while absolute mode sends fixed position values.

Switching Back

To return the OP-1 to standalone operation, press SHIFT + COM and select T1 (OP-1 Mode). In this mode, the OP-1 transmits and receives MIDI notes on channel 1, allowing it to work with external sequencers or sound modules while still functioning as a synthesizer.

Note: The OP-1 always sends MIDI data over USB. Make sure your computer recognizes it as a MIDI device, which should happen automatically on most systems.

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