The Unperson’s Live Rig: A Hardware Rave That Laughs in the Face of DAWs

The Unperson doesn’t muck about when it comes to prepping for a live gig. Right from the jump, we’re tossed into a setup that’s more about hands-on chaos than studio perfection. There’s no oscillator in the rack—yep, you read that right—because this set is all about samples, real-time mixing, and keeping things as lively as a kangaroo on a trampoline. The KO-2, Squarp Rample Turbo, Vongon Replay, and a trusty modular system are all in the mix, with a microphone thrown in for a bit of vocal spice. It’s a hardware lineup that screams playability and reliability, perfect for those sticky club nights where anything can (and will) go sideways.

What’s brilliant here is how The Unperson’s rig is built for action, not just for show. The modular system isn’t just a spaghetti mess of cables—it’s the glue holding everything together, handling mixing duties and effects sends like a pro. Each bit of gear has its job, from the KO-2’s heavy lifting to the Rample’s sample slinging, and even the Vongon Replay’s melodic wizardry. There’s a clear focus on keeping things practical, with levels, effects, and transitions all mapped out for maximum on-stage control. If you’re after a setup that can take a few knocks and still deliver, this is a masterclass in gig-proof hardware wrangling.

The Squarp Rample Turbo might not get the headline spot, but it’s the secret weapon in The Unperson’s arsenal. Used here in its most straightforward form, the Rample is loaded up with pre-prepared samples, ready to be triggered at just the right moment. There’s no deep menu diving or fancy tricks—just pure, immediate sample action that keeps the set moving and the crowd guessing.

What’s ace is how the Rample fits into the bigger picture. It’s patched into the modular mixer, sitting alongside the KO-2 and Vongon Replay, and gets called up for everything from atmospheric effects to surprise saxophone solos. The Unperson admits he hasn’t even scratched the surface of what the Rample can do, but in this context, its simplicity is a strength. For anyone looking to add some sample chaos to their live rig without getting lost in the weeds, this is a textbook example.

Here’s where things get personal: The Unperson weaves a narrative through the set, using live vocals and radio-style transitions to tell a story that’s part Christmas ballad, part club misadventure. The mic isn’t just a prop—it’s used for actual singing, adding a human touch to the electronic mayhem. There’s even a bit of self-deprecating humour about the stress of singing live, but it pays off with tracks that feel alive and unpredictable.

The performance is more than just a collection of beats; it’s a journey, complete with atmospheric intros, cheesy ballads, and a final club crescendo. The KO-2, Rample, and Vongon Replay all play their parts, but it’s the vocals and narrative that tie it all together. If you want to know how to turn a pile of gear into a proper live experience—one that’s as messy, heartfelt, and memorable as a night out in Melbourne—this is the bit that’ll inspire you to give it a crack yourself.