The Sampo is played using expression pedals.

For real-time signal treatment, each continuous variation pedal affects one or more sound processing parameters, such as delay, transposition, feedback, decay and others. This way, the musician modifies and augments the sonorities of their instrument through the movement of the pedals. The goal is to add a new sound dimension to a traditional acoustic instrument.

In addition to real-time treatment, one can play tape music (sound files). In this case the musician uses pedals to:
• trigger the sound files and to move inside, facilitating rehearsals
• manage output volume level of the instrument
• manage output volume level of the tape
• potentially, add effects (usually reverb)

Most of the pieces with tape are accompanied by a click-track or sound announcements to help synchronising with the tape.