Teenage Engineering OB-4

There is a rare delight in finding a technical tool that refuses to take itself too seriously while maintaining absolute precision. The Teenage Engineering OB-4 is a masterclass in this balance, treating audio not just as a stream of data, but as a tangible, manipulatable material through its "magic tape" feature. By constantly recording a rolling two-hour loop, it allows for a physical interaction with time—letting you rewind, stretch, and remix live radio at the flick of a finger. This mechanical approach to digital media, housed in a striking glossy red finish with motorized knobs that move in sync with your adjustments, creates a device that feels alive and responsive rather than just another passive speaker.

This philosophy of "functional whimsy" is a major influence on our current design explorations, especially as we consider how to integrate complex tech into our own modular systems. We are particularly inspired by the OB-4’s hidden utility—like the folding handle that seamlessly transmogrifies into both a stand and a high-gain antenna. It’s a reminder that the best gear should reward curiosity and invite interaction, offering layers of discovery that go beyond the primary spec sheet. As we refine the tactile details of our upcoming line, we’re looking to this same spirit of responsive engineering: creating tools that aren't just utilities, but active partners in a creative workflow.