Teenage Engineering PO-12 Rhythm Drum Machine & Sequencer

Quick Summary

The Teenage Engineering PO-12 Rhythm is a compact drum machine and sequencer designed for fast, hands-on beat making. Its pocket-sized format combines 16 drum sounds, a 16-step sequencer, parameter locking, pattern chaining and real-time punch-in effects in an ultra-portable package.

With its built-in speaker, battery-powered operation and straightforward sequencing workflow, the PO-12 is ideal for creating beats at home, in the studio or on the move.

What Makes the Teenage Engineering PO-12 Rhythm Special?

The PO-12 packs a surprisingly capable rhythm workstation into Teenage Engineering's distinctive Pocket Operator format. Its 16 sounds cover kicks, snares, hi-hats, percussion, tonal sounds and bass elements, giving you the tools to create complete rhythmic patterns without additional equipment.

The 16-step sequencer supports parameter locking, swing, step multiplication and pattern chaining, while 16 punch-in effects allow patterns to be transformed in real time with distortion, delay, filtering, stutters and other creative processing.

Who Is It For?

The PO-12 Rhythm is ideal for electronic musicians, producers, beat makers and beginners looking for an affordable and highly portable hardware drum machine.

It is also a strong choice for existing Pocket Operator users wanting to add dedicated percussion to their setup, or hardware musicians looking for a compact rhythm source that can synchronise with compatible equipment.

At A Glance

• Compact Pocket Operator drum machine

• 16 drum and percussion sounds

• 16-step sequencer

• 16 punch-in effects

• Parameter locking

• Pattern chaining

• Adjustable swing

• Step multiplier

• Built-in speaker

• 3.5 mm audio input and output

• Pocket Operator sync capability

• Battery-powered portable design

Condition Overview

This Teenage Engineering PO-12 Rhythm is brand new.

Supplied as a new retail product with full manufacturer warranty.

What’s Included?

• Teenage Engineering PO-12 Rhythm Drum Machine

• Original retail packaging

• Manufacturer documentation

Batteries are not included.

Technical Specifications

Product Type: Drum machine / rhythm synthesizer and sequencer
Sounds: 16
Sequencer: 16-step
Pattern Slots: 16
Pattern Chaining: Supported
Effects: 16 punch-in effects
Parameter Automation: Parameter locking
Swing: Adjustable
Step Multiplier: Supported
Audio Input: 3.5 mm stereo
Audio Output: 3.5 mm stereo
Sync: Pocket Operator sync via 3.5 mm connection
Speaker: Built-in
Display: Animated LCD display
Additional Functions: Clock and alarm
Construction: Pocket Operator circuit-board design with folding stand

Power Requirements

The Teenage Engineering PO-12 Rhythm is powered by 2 x AAA batteries.

Batteries are not included.

No mains power supply is required or included.

FAQs

Is the Teenage Engineering PO-12 Rhythm a drum machine?

Yes. The PO-12 is a compact rhythm synthesizer, drum machine and step sequencer with 16 onboard percussion sounds.

How many sounds does the PO-12 have?

It features 16 drum and percussion sounds covering a range of kicks, snares, hi-hats, cymbals, percussion and tonal elements.

Does the PO-12 have a sequencer?

Yes. It features a 16-step sequencer for programming rhythmic patterns.

Can patterns be chained together?

Yes. Multiple patterns can be chained together to create longer sequences and arrangements.

Does the PO-12 have built-in effects?

Yes. It includes 16 punch-in effects designed for real-time manipulation and performance.

Can the PO-12 automate parameters?

Yes. Parameter locking allows sound changes to be recorded directly into individual sequencer steps.

Can the PO-12 synchronise with other equipment?

Yes. Its 3.5 mm connections support Pocket Operator synchronisation, allowing it to work alongside other compatible devices.

Does the PO-12 have a built-in speaker?

Yes. A built-in speaker allows the PO-12 to be used without headphones or external amplification.

Can I use headphones with the PO-12?

Yes. Headphones can be connected through the 3.5 mm audio output.

What batteries does the PO-12 use?

The PO-12 requires 2 x AAA batteries.

Are batteries included?

No. Batteries are not included.

Is the PO-12 suitable for beginners?

Yes. Its direct step-sequencing workflow makes it approachable for beginners while still offering creative depth for more experienced producers.

Can the PO-12 be used live?

Yes. Pattern chaining, punch-in effects and hands-on controls make it well suited to compact live electronic setups.

Why Buy From Fair Deal Music?

Fair Deal Music has been serving musicians since 1987 from our Birmingham showroom, offering expert advice and a wide selection of instruments and music technology.

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