Tembo Digital Sampler & Sequencer
The Tembo Digital Sampler and Sequencer reimagines the traditional step sequencer with a tactile design that feels closer to a board game than a piece of studio hardware, joining a growing wave of innovative music gadgets designed to make creativity more accessible. Created by Musical Beings, the device replaces the usual digital grid with a physical interface where magnetic wooden counters are placed on a sequencer board to build rhythms and melodies. Each magnet represents a note or beat, allowing users to shape basslines and drum patterns simply by moving pieces across the grid.
This hands on approach makes the creative process immediate and intuitive. Instead of navigating menus or programming patterns on a screen, musicians can experiment freely by shifting counters to create variations in real time. Stacking magnets produces faster notes while flipping them introduces off beat rhythms, turning the grid into a playful yet powerful composition tool.
Tembo functions as far more than a simple sequencer. The unit includes a built in microphone for capturing sounds on the spot, a line input for sampling instruments, and onboard effects that allow users to shape and manipulate recordings. A starter library of percussion samples is included, and additional sound packs can be loaded through the content library.
Connectivity options expand the device into a full studio tool, allowing it to integrate easily with other studio gear and creative technology. Dual USB MIDI support allows Tembo to sync with external gear or digital audio workstations, while USB audio output and a headphone jack make recording sessions straightforward. The built in Class D amplifier and speakers mean it can also operate entirely on its own without additional equipment.
Constructed with a wooden chassis and designed to remain screen free, Tembo was intentionally built to feel inviting rather than intimidating. The goal, according to co founder Ayal Rosenberg, was to create an instrument that encourages experimentation and helps people experience music making from the very first touch. Inspired by the philosophy of renowned bassist and educator Victor Wooten, the device treats music learning more like learning a language through exploration and play.
Battery powered and portable, Tembo is designed to be picked up and used whenever inspiration strikes. Whether used as an educational tool, a sketchpad for musical ideas, or a performance instrument, it offers a refreshingly physical way to create beats and melodies alongside other modern music making tools.
Currently crowdfunding on Kickstarter, Tembo aims to bring a new level of accessibility and creativity to electronic music making through its unique blend of analog interaction and modern digital capabilities.
This hands on approach makes the creative process immediate and intuitive. Instead of navigating menus or programming patterns on a screen, musicians can experiment freely by shifting counters to create variations in real time. Stacking magnets produces faster notes while flipping them introduces off beat rhythms, turning the grid into a playful yet powerful composition tool.
Tembo functions as far more than a simple sequencer. The unit includes a built in microphone for capturing sounds on the spot, a line input for sampling instruments, and onboard effects that allow users to shape and manipulate recordings. A starter library of percussion samples is included, and additional sound packs can be loaded through the content library.
Connectivity options expand the device into a full studio tool, allowing it to integrate easily with other studio gear and creative technology. Dual USB MIDI support allows Tembo to sync with external gear or digital audio workstations, while USB audio output and a headphone jack make recording sessions straightforward. The built in Class D amplifier and speakers mean it can also operate entirely on its own without additional equipment.
Constructed with a wooden chassis and designed to remain screen free, Tembo was intentionally built to feel inviting rather than intimidating. The goal, according to co founder Ayal Rosenberg, was to create an instrument that encourages experimentation and helps people experience music making from the very first touch. Inspired by the philosophy of renowned bassist and educator Victor Wooten, the device treats music learning more like learning a language through exploration and play.
Battery powered and portable, Tembo is designed to be picked up and used whenever inspiration strikes. Whether used as an educational tool, a sketchpad for musical ideas, or a performance instrument, it offers a refreshingly physical way to create beats and melodies alongside other modern music making tools.
Currently crowdfunding on Kickstarter, Tembo aims to bring a new level of accessibility and creativity to electronic music making through its unique blend of analog interaction and modern digital capabilities.
