Teenage Engineering founder Jesper Kouthoofd says the company plans to stop making synthesizers altogether, including its iconic OP-1. Here’s why the Swedish design company is moving away from music hardware and what it means for musicians and producers.

Teenage Engineering is planning to stop making synthesizers, including the OP-1, the instrument that helped establish the company as one of the most recognisable names in music hardware.

The news comes from an interview with founder and CEO Jesper Kouthoofd published by Highsnobiety on October 7. The Stockholm-based company has built a loyal following among musicians and producers through its distinctive combination of minimalist design, experimental features and unconventional instruments.

However, Kouthoofd believes Teenage Engineering’s future lies beyond synthesizers.

Why is Teenage Engineering stopping making synths?

Kouthoofd revealed that he had already shared plans to stop making synthesizers with his team during a company reorganisation last autumn.

That includes the OP-1, which launched in 2011 and remains one of Teenage Engineering’s most recognisable products.

“I’ve come to the conclusion that, for us, the products aren’t the business,” Kouthoofd told Highsnobiety. “We can be so much more than that.”

The decision reflects his desire to prevent Teenage Engineering from becoming defined by a single product or category.

Although the company is best known for its music hardware, its work extends well beyond synthesizers. Teenage Engineering has collaborated with IKEA, Nothing and Playdate, while developing more unusual products such as a portable vinyl cutter and a choir of wooden singing dolls.

Its music equipment has also consistently challenged conventional instrument design. The OP-1 brought a portable, battery-powered approach to music production, while the EP-1320 Medieval introduced medieval-inspired sounds and aesthetics to electronic music hardware.

Kouthoofd’s comments suggest that this experimental approach will continue, even if it no longer takes the form of traditional synthesizers. Some of the company’s upcoming projects may not even arrive for another five to ten years, highlighting its willingness to explore ideas beyond immediate commercial expectations. 

What does this mean for musicians and producers?

The potential move away from synthesizers would mark a significant shift for the music hardware industry. 

The OP-1 has become particularly influential among musicians looking for alternatives to conventional computer-based production. Its portable design and unusual workflow have helped make it a popular instrument for everything from sketching musical ideas to live performance.

However, there’s currently no confirmed timeline for when Teenage Engineering will stop making synths, or what the decision means for existing products, future updates and ongoing support.

Whether you’re experimenting with synthesizers, sampling, recording or producing entirely in the box, the important thing is finding a creative process that works for you.

And once you’ve turned those ideas into finished music, getting them onto streaming platforms is the next step. RouteNote helps you distribute music to major platforms worldwide.

Teenage Engineering’s next chapter remains uncertain, but its influence on music hardware is already firmly established.

Distribute your music to streaming platforms everywhere for free with RouteNote today.