technology
Teenage Engineering Releases $179 EP-136 KO Sidekick Two-Channel Mixer and Effects Unit
The compact device combines mixing, effects processing and USB audio interfacing in a design that snaps directly onto the KO-II sampler. It offers six performance effects controlled by a pressure-sensitive pad and mod stick, and is available now for $179.
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Teenage Engineering released the EP-136 KO Sidekick on May 8, 2026. O. Sidekick, is a two-channel mixer that functions as an effects processor and USB audio interface.
The EP-136 KO Sidekick is designed to connect two KO-II samplers for live performances and DJ sets. It can connect any two audio sources, not just Teenage Engineering gear. By default the EP-136 KO Sidekick supports two stereo inputs.
It can be switched to four mono inputs using split audio adapters and supports two stereo channels over USB-C. The mixer can be used to control DJ apps on a phone or tablet. Each channel of the EP-136 KO Sidekick has a three-band EQ.
The EP-136 KO Sidekick has a built-in compressor with three different modes per channel. It uses the same design language as the KO-II and connects directly to it using pegs.
The Verge reported that this change makes parameters far easier to read at a glance. Six channel effects are available: DJ filter, tremolo, delay, tape, loop and siren. Effects on the EP-136 KO Sidekick can be controlled with a mod stick or a pressure-sensitive pad.
The harder the pressure-sensitive FX pad is pressed, the more dramatic the effect becomes. Effects can be automated to change over time without keeping a hand on the pad. O. Sidekick automatically detects the BPM of incoming audio to keep rhythmic effects in sync.
Effects can be run in series or parallel, so one channel can carry delay while another carries tremolo, or both can be stacked on the master output. O. Sidekick functions as a MIDI controller and has a Tap FX Sequencer.
It offers three EQ styles and individual compressors on each input channel. O. Sidekick provides eight inputs and four outputs. It processes audio at 48 kHz / 24-bit.
O. 6 cm and weighs 300 grams. It can run on USB-C or two AAA batteries, allowing use in a backpack or jacket pocket. O. Sidekick units can be linked together via EP Pegs, which are LEGO-compatible and slot into side openings on EP-series hardware.
