Congratulations on owning your new Otamatone and starting your journey into strange music! When Japanese designer Novmichi Tosa created the Otamatone, he wanted to challenge your rational brain and encourage a little silliness through its fun and unusual beeps and signature “wah” sounds.
Start exploring how to play the Otamatone with this Beginner’s Guide to the Otamatone.
How to Set Up Your Otamatone for the First Time
Step by Step Guide:
1. Insert the batteries.
Start by unscrewing the battery compartment cover. Insert the appropriate batteries into your Otamatone and make sure they are aligned correctly. Then, screw the cover back into place.
2. Turn on the Otamatone.
Switch the volume slider to the ON position to power on your Otamatone. Then, use the pitch control to choose your desired octave: Low, Mid, or High.
3. Play Otamatone!
Once you have set your desired settings, experiment with different playing styles and what feels comfortable to you. Press the stem to play different notes, or slide your finger along the stem to create ascending or descending sounds. While playing, squeeze the Otamatone’s cheeks to create its signature “wah” effect.
Play Your First Song on the Otamatone
Once you start getting the hang of creating and experimenting with the Otamatone’s unique sounds, try leveling up by learning your first song!
We recommend our Otamatone tutorials created in partnership with musician and content creator, Nelson Silva (@moshibass). Learn how to play “All the Small Things” by blink-182 on the Otamatone with this step-by-step beginner tutorial.
Bonus Content – Speed Running the Otamatone
Watch our team attempt learning the Otamatone as fast as possible with Nelson.
Join the Otama-Challenge
From March 16 to 26 the Otamatone US Instagram is hosting the PLAY! #OtamaChallenge. Think you’ve got the hang of playing “All the Small Things” on the Otamatone? Post a video of yourself playing on Instagram, tag @otamatone.us, and use the #OtamaChallenge for a chance to get featured on the official Otamatone US Instagram. Participants who follow the account also receive an exclusive 25% off discount code for Otamatones at Hamee.com. Check out our Instagram for full challenge details.
Let’s be friends!
Stay connected with other Otamatone fans and continue learning:
