Sonicware SmplTrek —  VS  — Teenage Engineering EP-133 K.O. II Sampler

Sampling for Fun: A Comparison of the Sonicware SmplTrek and Teenage Engineering EP-133 K.O. II

If you’re into making music on the go, you might be looking for the perfect portable sampler. Today, we’re diving into two exciting options: the Sonicware SmplTrek and the Teenage Engineering EP-133 K.O. II Sampler. Both of these devices are designed to make music creation fun and accessible, but which one is right for you? Let’s dig in and find out!

Meet the Samplers

Sonicware SmplTrek

The Sonicware SmplTrek is a powerful little device that packs a punch. Released in 2023, it’s a fully portable production station. You don’t even need a computer to make music with it! With its 10-button interface and color screen, the SmplTrek is designed for musicians who love to travel and perform live. It offers a 16-bit / 44.1kHz sample rate and has a unique combination of internal memory and microSD storage. On top of that, it includes a full suite of effects like EQ, Delay, and Reverb.

Teenage Engineering EP-133 K.O. II

Also released in 2023, the Teenage Engineering EP-133 K.O. II is a stylish and compact sampler. Known for its punchy pads and step sequencer, this device is perfect for hands-on performance. It features a higher sample rate of 16-bit / 46.875kHz and comes with 16 velocity-sensitive pads. The EP-133 K.O. II is an upgrade from the original PO-33, offering musicians more portability with a durable plastic housing and minimal software integration.

Features Face-off

Polyphony and Sample Rate

The Sonicware SmplTrek offers 10-note polyphony, which means you can play up to 10 notes at the same time. It samples at 16-bit / 44.1kHz, which provides decent audio quality for most music-making purposes. On the other hand, the Teenage Engineering EP-133 K.O. II’s polyphony is unspecified, but it boasts a slightly higher sample rate of 16-bit / 46.875kHz. This might appeal to those who are particular about audio fidelity.

Storage and Pads

Both samplers provide internal memory and support for microSD cards, which is great for expanding your sample library. However, the SmplTrek uses 10 buttons, whereas the EP-133 K.O. II has 16 velocity-sensitive pads. If you love tapping out rhythms and melodies with your fingers, the EP-133 K.O. II’s extra pads might be a big advantage.

Sequencer and Effects

When it comes to sequencing, the SmplTrek offers both song-based and pattern sequencing. This makes it versatile for arranging tracks in various ways. The EP-133 K.O. II also has a sequencer, but its focus is on step sequencing, which can be more intuitive for some users. In terms of effects, the SmplTrek includes EQ, Delay, Reverb, and Master FX, while the EP-133 K.O. II offers Filter, Delay, Reverb, and Compression. Both samplers give you creative tools to shape your sound.

Build and Integration

The SmplTrek is described as a compact all-in-one sampler workstation, while the EP-133 K.O. II is known for its durable plastic housing. Both are portable, but the SmplTrek might appeal more to those looking for a complete standalone solution. In terms of integration, the SmplTrek allows USB file transfer, which can be handy for moving samples between devices. The EP-133 K.O. II offers minimal, plug-and-play integration, focusing more on simplicity and ease of use.

Pros and Cons

Sonicware SmplTrek

Pros:

• All-in-one portable solution
• Color screen for easy navigation
• Versatile sequencing options
• Comprehensive effects suite
• USB file transfer for easy integration

Cons:

• Higher price point at $429
• Only 10 buttons for performance

Teenage Engineering EP-133 K.O. II

Pros:

• 16 velocity-sensitive pads for expressive play
• Higher sample rate for better audio quality
• Durable and stylish design
• Affordable price at $299
• Simple, plug-and-play integration

Cons:

• Polyphony is unspecified
• Minimal software integration

Summary

The Sonicware SmplTrek and Teenage Engineering EP-133 K.O. II both offer unique features that cater to different types of musicians. The SmplTrek is a robust, all-in-one solution for those who want a complete production station. Meanwhile, the EP-133 K.O. II is perfect for musicians who value portability and hands-on control with its expressive pads.

Final Verdict

So, who should choose which sampler? If you want a full-featured sampler that you can take anywhere and use without a computer, the Sonicware SmplTrek is a great choice. It’s perfect for traveling musicians and live performers who need a powerful, standalone device.

On the other hand, if you prefer a more affordable option with a focus on playability and stylish design, the Teenage Engineering EP-133 K.O. II Sampler is ideal. It’s great for beginners or anyone who loves making music with their fingers and wants a straightforward, plug-and-play experience.

Both of these samplers bring something special to the table. Choose the one that best fits your style and start making music wherever you go!