The Teenage Engineering Pocket Operator series has always been about creativity packed into a small, calculator-sized device. Among them, the PO-24 Office stands out as one of the quirkiest and most unique. Instead of focusing on drums or synth tones like many of its siblings, this model transforms everyday office sounds into a rhythmic playground. From typewriters and printers to fax machines and copy noises, the PO-24 is essentially an industrial beat machine that turns mundane office life into music.
In this review, we’ll take a closer look at what makes the PO-24 Office so unusual, its features, strengths, and whether it’s still worth picking up today.
Design and Build
Like all Pocket Operators, the PO-24 comes in a minimalist, bare-bones design. It’s literally a PCB board with exposed components, a simple screen, 23 buttons, two knobs, and a small speaker. Don’t let its toy-like appearance fool you, though—this is a powerful rhythm tool designed with both fun and performance in mind.
It’s compact enough to slip into your pocket, runs on two AAA batteries, and has a 3.5mm input/output for chaining with other gear or recording into a DAW. There’s also a sync function, so you can link it seamlessly with other Pocket Operators like the PO-12 Rhythm or PO-20 Arcade.
Sound Engine – Office Machines as Music
What really sets the PO-24 apart is its sound palette. Instead of traditional drum hits, you get an assortment of office noises re-imagined as percussive instruments. Think of mechanical key clacks, photocopier whirs, paper tearing, stapler clicks, and printer beeps—all mapped across its 16 sound slots.
These sounds may sound gimmicky at first, but once sequenced, they transform into surprisingly groovy industrial beats. The mechanical timbres pair well with electronic music genres like techno, experimental, or industrial, but they’re versatile enough to spice up hip-hop or glitch tracks.
Sequencing and Features
The PO-24 features a 16-step sequencer, allowing you to program patterns quickly. You can chain up to 16 patterns for longer arrangements, making it ideal for building complex loops.
Other key features include:
- 16 unique office sound samples – From typewriters to copiers, each with distinct character.
- 16 punch-in effects – Add flair with stutters, bit-crushing, reverb, filters, and more.
- Parameter locks – Tweak sounds per step, giving sequences life and variation.
- Real-time recording – Tap in beats live for a more organic feel.
- Sync options – Chain with other POs or external gear.
This combination of features makes it more than just a novelty—it’s a fully functional groovebox.
Workflow and Playability
Despite its limited size, the PO-24 is intuitive and fun to use. Beginners can dive in and start making beats within minutes, while advanced users will find creative ways to push its boundaries. The step sequencer is straightforward, and the punch-in effects make performances dynamic.
The quirky screen animations, which show miniature office workers running around while your beats play, add a layer of humor and charm to the experience. It’s a reminder that Teenage Engineering doesn’t just make instruments—they make playful musical tools.
Use Cases
The PO-24 Office is best suited for:
- Experimental producers looking for unusual textures.
- Live performers who want to add a quirky percussive layer to their set.
- Beginners who want an inexpensive and fun entry into beatmaking.
- Sound designers searching for unique mechanical and industrial sounds.
It might not be the main drum machine in your studio, but as a secondary texture tool, it shines.
Limitations
While the PO-24 is fun and creative, it does have limitations. The lack of deep sound editing means you’re restricted to its built-in samples. It’s also not as versatile as the PO-12 Rhythm or PO-33 K.O! when it comes to covering a wider range of genres. Some might find the office sound concept too niche for everyday use.
Another consideration is build durability—though tough for its size, the exposed circuit board design means it’s not as road-ready as other gear unless you invest in a protective case.
Final Verdict
The Teenage Engineering PO-24 Office is one of the most original entries in the Pocket Operator lineup. It takes something ordinary—the soundscape of an office—and turns it into a creative musical instrument. While it may not be as flexible as other Pocket Operators, it brings a unique flavor to any setup.
If you’re an experimental producer or someone who just loves quirky sound design, the PO-24 is a hidden gem. For those who want a more traditional drum machine experience, you might be better off with the PO-12 Rhythm or PO-32 Tonic.
Still, the PO-24 Office proves that music can be made from anywhere—even the sounds of a fax machine.
Rating: 8/10 – A fun, unusual groovebox that brings industrial office vibes to your music.