Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 6 stores. Prices updated .

Amazon
4.6 (175)
$99.00
Reverb
5.0 (4)
$90.00 New
$91.48 Used
B&H
4.0 (4)
$99.00
Thomann
4.3 (23)
$91.00

Average Price: $95

Budget/Beginner

$249

$700+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 2 merchants for "Teenage Engineering Pocket Operator PO-28 Robot". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Dive into the realm of retro with the Teenage Engineering Pocket Operator PO-28 Robot, a powerhouse of 8-bit glory wrapped in a pocket-sized marvel. This device isn't just a synth; it's your musical sketchpad on-the-go, offering live playability, seamless sequencing, and an array of punch-in effects to elevate your soundscapes. Whether you're crafting leads in the studio or performing live, the PO-28 Robot ensures your creations are uniquely yours, thanks to its intuitive parameter locking and glide control. Connect with external gear or link up with other Pocket Operators for an expansive synthesizer experience that defies its diminutive size.

Key Features:

  • 8-bit sound engine for authentic retro vibes
  • Live playability with 128 pattern chaining
  • Punch-in effects for dynamic sound manipulation
  • Parameter locking for precise sound shaping
  • Glide control for smooth lead transitions
  • Built-in speaker for immediate audio feedback
  • Compatibility with external gear and other Pocket Operators

Product specs

Brand Teenage Engineering
Model PO-28 Pocket Operator Robot
Finish Black
Year 2016 - 2025
Categories Desktop Synths, Digital Synthesizers
Analog / Digital Digital
Polyphony 3 Voices

FAQs

What kind of sounds can the Teenage Engineering PO-28 Robot produce?

The PO-28 Robot is designed to generate a wide range of synthesized sounds, with a focus on 8-bit and chiptune textures. It features a live synthesizer and sequencer with parameter locks, glide control, and punch-in effects to create dynamic and unique soundscapes.

Is the PO-28 Robot suitable for live performances?

Yes, the PO-28 Robot is suitable for live performances. It features a built-in speaker, sync capabilities, and an intuitive interface that allows for real-time sound manipulation, making it a great tool for live electronic music sets.

How many voices of polyphony does the PO-28 Robot have?

The Teenage Engineering PO-28 Robot offers 3 voices of polyphony, allowing you to play up to three notes simultaneously, which is ideal for creating layered and complex sounds.

Does the PO-28 Robot have any built-in effects?

Yes, the PO-28 Robot includes punch-in effects that allow you to modify your sounds on the fly. These effects enhance live performance capabilities by adding variety and dynamic changes to your music.

How does the PO-28 Robot integrate with other Pocket Operators?

The PO-28 Robot can be synced with other Pocket Operators via audio sync, allowing you to create a cohesive setup with multiple devices. This feature enables you to expand your musical possibilities by combining different sounds and sequences.

Red Means Recording

Red Means Recording

TE PO-28 Robot Introduction

Video thumbnail for TE PO-28 Robot Introduction by Red Means Recording

TE PO-28 Robot Introduction

Red Means Recording

Red Means Recording

Video thumbnail for Teenage Engineering Pocket Operator PO-28 Robot - Demo & Tutorial by PMTVUK

Teenage Engineering Pocket Operator PO-28 Robot - Demo & Tutorial

PMTVUK

PMTVUK

Video thumbnail for Testing Teenage Engineering PO 28 Robot Pocket Operator by Ulises Lozano El Licenciado

Testing Teenage Engineering PO 28 Robot Pocket Operator

Ulises Lozano El Licenciado

Ulises Lozano El Licenciado

Video thumbnail for Teenage Engineering PO-28 Robot - Jungle Test by MrJoshuaUK

Teenage Engineering PO-28 Robot - Jungle Test

MrJoshuaUK

MrJoshuaUK

Video thumbnail for Teenage Engineering Pocket Operator PO-28 Robot Review │ haQ attaQ 147 by Jakob Haq

Teenage Engineering Pocket Operator PO-28 Robot Review │ haQ attaQ 147

Jakob Haq

Jakob Haq

Video thumbnail for Teenage Engineering PO-28 "Robot" Overview by Perfect Circuit

Teenage Engineering PO-28 "Robot" Overview

Perfect Circuit

Perfect Circuit

Video thumbnail for PO-28 Robot Review Pocket Operator by Teenage Engineering PO28 Jam Session by Pete

PO-28 Robot Review Pocket Operator by Teenage Engineering PO28 Jam Session

Pete

Pete

Reviews

PROS

  • Excellent lead sounds, versatile with 8 waveforms

  • Compact and highly portable for music creation on-the-go

  • Relatively affordable for its feature set

  • Compatible with other devices for synchronized play

  • Offers live play with 3 channels including a mini drumkit

  • Encourages creativity with limitations as a feature

  • Durable design, with cases available for extra protection

  • Extended battery life for prolonged use

CONS

  • Battery operation only, with no rechargeable option

  • Lacks MIDI support for broader music production integration

  • No song export capability, limiting pattern sharing

  • Limited to Dorian Bebop scale, restricting note variety

  • Display considered non-functional by some users

  • High cost for the protective silicone case

  • Some users reported issues with battery compartment design

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Teenage Engineering Pocket Operator PO-28 Robot.

Features and functionality

  • The PO-28 Robot includes a deep bass engine allowing for complex bass patterns, a feature noted as more advanced than the PO-20 Arcade.

    Source
  • Each note on the PO-28 can have programmable lengths from short stabs to long sustained notes, adapted through parameters for intricate sound design.

    Source
  • Sounds on the PO-28 are grouped in pairs, with the ability to adjust pulse wave modulation depth and note length for nuanced sound manipulation.

    Source
  • The PO-28 offers a unique feature where the sequence scale changes depending on the mode: from A3 to A5 in live play mode and two octaves lower during write mode.

    Source
  • The PO-28 Robot's 16 buttons can be used as a keyboard, allowing live melody play, unlike the PO-20 where pitch changes are manual.

    Source
  • The PO-128 is noted for its ability to sustain all 12 notes, enhancing its suitability for live performance compared to the PO-28.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The drum kit on the PO-28 is inspired by retro game sounds, offering a nostalgic element for those looking to create vintage or arcade-style tracks.

    Source
  • The PO-28 Robot is favored for live performance due to its ability to play melody lines directly, making it more versatile for on-the-go jamming.

    Source
  • The PO-28 is preferred for its unique lead sound, particularly in 8-bit computer synth music, which the PO-128 cannot entirely replicate.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The PO-28 Robot is locked to the C Major scale but offers more live playability compared to the PO-20 Arcade, which has limited chord functionality.

    Source
  • The PO-128 allows for key changes and includes a micro drum kit, making it a more versatile choice than the PO-28 for varied musical styles.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners appreciate the PO-28's distinct capability for playing live melodies, enhancing the live performance experience compared to other POs that require manual pitch changes.

    Source
  • Owners mention the PO-128's capability to sequence songs in any key, offering flexibility for creating diverse musical genres.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The PO-128 bundle, including the PO-133, is periodically discounted on Teenage Engineering's site, offering savings over individual purchases.

    Source
Add

4.5 out of 5

Based on 4 Reviews and 15 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
zadronxion

Super fun little device

I take this thing almost everywhere to go and so far it is my only pocket operator and now I want to collect them all. It is a great sequencer and the lead synth noises are perfect for performing the device live at small parties and reunions.

pavel_shevchuk

A loveable pocket synth for chiptune fans

Died after one set of batteries, and the shop didn't have another Robot to replace it with. I will probably buy another one later

voxhumanamusiccurators

What a great and unique synth

My latest Pocket, so far....Absolutely in love with it...Very arcade-like. It has vibrato and glide....very expressive....

jeffersonweber

Very Cool!

Small package with a big punch! This PO has a couple added features as well. Check it out.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

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