I basically never comment, but your channel is one of the best discoveries I've done in AGES. Thank you so much for enriching my life, making a calm corner of knowledge in this place. Keep it up!
This is how gear videos should be done. It’s obvious to me that you spend a great deal of time preparing for and shooting these videos and I appreciate that. I’m very much looking forward to whatever else you can divulge regarding the MS. Thank you, sir!
Thank you for this video and upcoming series. I’m going to be learning along with you on my own M:C! Wonderful, deep and interesting approach and such a calming voice in amongst the storm. 🙏🏻
Excellent tutorial ! Mine is on the way - Thanks for taking the time to do this informative video - I’m not quite halfway through & your tutorial on FM synthesis is great ( I’m new at this ) I’m hoping you put your drawing in front of the camera , the visual is a good idea , especially for a beginner, I hope you slap it right in the camera - Cheers ! Diving in -/
This is amazing! You're like the Professor of Synth. I'm new to synthesis and picked up a Model Cycles and Poly D. I feel like this series should be a default fixture from Elektron. They should hire you to make their tutorial videos! I like how you explain the fundamentals in detail and do things slowly. Thanks!
I'm still amazed by the quality of the content featured in your videos. One could easily major in electronic music just by following your channel. Thanks, as always.
as always - best review ever! thank you so much for doing this - big fan here! your calm voice and easy way of explaining things go directly into my brain and like to sit there for a long time! bravo! want to have one now! (not so bravo:)
Thank you! Great video as always! Waiting for the next one! Already ordered cycle. I've been waiting something like this since PO-32 tonic :) Take care!
I am really excited to watch this video. I am really interested in the model cycles, and you make the most in-depth and informative videos on synths on the internet. I can tell I'm going to learn a lot from this video, I am sure. Thank you for making such high quality videos! Please keep making them!
Thanks very much! As with other videos I've made about newly released devices, I talk quite a bit at the beginning in this one (for context) and then do an initial hands-on demonstration. More videos to follow about deeper features and how they might be used! Thanks again for the feedback!
Thank you for your tutorials. I watched your Microfreak ones and learnt more from you than anywhere else. I'm now thinking of investing in the Model:Cycles. Your videos will again be a huge help for me. Much appreciated.
Can’t wait to watch the full video - looks great! Super excited for your next one, I’m thinking of getting the cycles for ambient/soundscape/generative music
This was a surprisingly rich and pedagogical review and walkthrough of the nuances of the different synths, and it's clear that you've used them all enough to really know what you're talking about. I *really* appreciated your map explaining the main difference between the Digitone and the Model:Cycles - that was so useful. My only disappointment was that you later on stopped talking about the Digitone, because I'm actually specifically trying to choose between the Model:Cycles and the Digitone. I'd love to hear more from you on that. I'm not as interested in sampling, at least not right now, and besides, I can do all my sampling in Reason 10 which is my DAW of choice. FM synthesis, on the other hand, is something I don't have, plus I'm really interested in getting some kind of groovebox. I think I'm leaning towards the Digitone for the exact reason you mention with that map of FM synthesis, but also because it can route other hardware through its built in effects if I want to buy more hardware in the future. Lastly, I definitely prefer the build quality and frankly think the Model series looks a bit cheap in comparison. However, the Digitone is over twice as expensive, so I'm still hesitating because I'm not 100% sure if it really is worth the premium. Would be fantastic to get your thoughts on it given that you've used them both for quite a while. Thanks again for taking the time to make an incredibly thorough review!
Hey, thank you very much for the feedback, it means a lot👍🏻! I think your assessment is quite accurate. Better build quality and - especially - a much deeper approach to FM synthesis. In the video I talked about how that the Samples lacks resampling (relative to the Digitakt) - yet, to be clear, that can be somewhat overcome by working closely with a DAW or such. But, that said, the Cycles can never, ever, catch up to the Digitone in terms of synthesis. I like the Cycles for its sequencer, velocity-sensitive pads, and familiar interface, but wonder if the sounds are really deep enough for the long haul. And not just the synthesis: the envelope(s) on the Digitone are full-featured. How, for example, do you make a swelling pad on the Cycles without an attack parameter? (you can do it, sort of, with an LFO, but then that uses up the LFO). And then, the reverb-less delay repeats? Basically, it demands that the Cycles use an external reverb for ambient work. Anyway, I know that the price is a major factor, but I'd say that if the Digitone is possible, then it should be that. The ability to pass another source through the FX adds a lot of value too, as you say. Lastly, I'd say just trust your ears: there are demos on the Elektron website, yt videos, and especially Instagram - explore the different applications, especially similar to your own plans. Last thing, check out the end of my Model:Samples video on looping - the samples for that are ALL Digitone (passed through cassette and mangled, but still). The sounds I used were PRESETS on the Digitone, not something that I laboriously came up with🤔.
@@undulations Thank you for your thorough answer! Great suggestion to trust my ears - I've listened to many reviews and jams and there is definitely a very clear difference in richness and depth of the Digitone that I enjoy. I'm a big believer of the "buy once, cry once" philosophy, so I will definitely pick the Digitone. Thanks again!
Thank you and thanks for watching! I think that's a great idea. It might be a couple of months, but I do want to do some Digitone and Digitakt videos. Maybe not exactly the same sort as these - which I think of as mostly a tutorial with some specific topics - maybe sort of the opposite, where I pick some sort of special topic and use the Digitakt/Digitone as the platform, with general learning along the way.
Thank you! I feel like, if anything, the Cycles has grown on me since then. I tend to think of it as a standalone box, but I recently used it to control another synth (0Coast) from one track with beats, etc. on the others. Just really easy to set up and use👍🏻
Superb vid. My ADHD runs wild when I think about all of this stuff my wallet can't even begin to consider. I have the M:S, mess around with it from time to time. A lot of fun. Just got the Cycles-- enjoying that, too... especially for ambient/meditation music. Can't even consider Digitakt or Digitone as they're far out of my price range... have the Microfreak but only played it a few times... wish that thing had reverb and delay built-in... easy fix with a multi-fx pedal connected to it, but man.. if it had it built-in, that would rule. I wish the Models had a scale constraint option so those 16 steps were two octaves of a major/minor or a mode... or, 3 octaves of a pentatonic... it would be so easy for Elektron to add it in a firmware update.... hoping to see that eventually..... That said... I wish the Models (and Digitakt/Digitone) offered random stuff, constrained to a scale... major/minor/pent... etc. That's one thing they're missing. You can do this with Keystep Pro and Beatstep Pro, to some extent... but even then, the randomization is a bit too random, especially octave-wise, with the KSP. This is such a relaxing, informative video. What are your thoughts on randomization/full generative stuff and implementing something like that into the Elektron workflow? Thanks again. :)
Hey, I really appreciate such a thought-provoking comment! First thing, lest I forget, is that I've tried to do some generative things on the Cycles and the MicroFreak (there are videos for each on here), check those out if you get a chance. Understood about the scale mode for the Models. I feel like something close could be made with a sequence, sequencer logic, and maybe multiple tracks - but it wouldn't be playable on the trig keys, which i certainly see the advantage of. But, wow are you right about the MicroFreak re: reverb and delay! I have thought about that a lot. In fact, what I could go for is a new oscillator type that is pretty basic as an oscillator BUT it has reverb/delay built in. Why not something new (I think), which is to have the Shift button change what parameters the wave/timbre/shape knobs do: then there could be synth settings on wave and digital reverb/delay settings - times, decays, filter, wet/dry, etc - on timbre and shape, using the shift button to help it all fit. We can dream! Anyway, thanks much for checking out the video and commenting!
Well, it's got a distinct sound, and I might not choose it as the only thing I have or some sort of desert island synth. BUT, that said, I feel like there is a lot to be done with it. I need to use mine more🤔...
Geert CE Thanks :) The Onirim games are so nice, really love the artwork and game design. I tend to go for solitaire/co-op games that don’t take a whole lot of time to play (tough getting my teen kids to sit at a game without it turning into a scene). Thanks for watching!
hello friend, I'm starting to watch some serious videos about the Model:cycles, which I intend will be the next purchase. maybe in some time, since this month I've already spent enough with Behringer Crave and Roland Mc101😅
I've always wondered about the process: is it a large pool of sounds and patterns that get voted on? idk, but on the Digitakt the first bank, first pattern is my favorite (Subaquatic). It's like I was a baby bird that bonded to it on first bootup.
Great Video! Thanks for easy to understand explanations. Couple of things I’m not clear on. The factory folder sounds, are those sample sounds that come with the unit or are they presets sounds of a “machine?” Im assuming you can tweak them the same right just like the machines? Are the machines sound design limited only to the 4 knobs you were manipulating?
Hey, thanks for watching! I guess I should refer to them as "Factory presets" - yes, these are just a collection of settings that load into the device, no sample. You can load a Factory preset into your project and tweak it however you like, save that (I think the originals are write-protected). In fact, if you just turn it on out of the box and try to save something - it will have you do a "Save As..." into a new project, where you will also have all of the as-shipped patterns to modify as well. As for the 4 knobs only? Sort of yes and no. Those are the 4 really fundamental settings, but then you have all sorts of additional settings like delay send and type, reverb send and type, overdrive/distortion, using the LFO, velocity, and retrigger to make the sound possibilities even broader. And then there is also using the sequencer to modify sounds on the fly. Keep posted and I'll try to show much of this in coming videos!
Interested in your opinion. I have the Samples but my interest is more in sound design, drones and ambience. I can get some sounds out of the MS but struggle with it as the OSC sounds are often steppy unless I put a single Trig into Infinite decay. In your opinion is the Cycles better for ambient/ drone work?
I guess it partly comes down to how you like to make and use samples for ambient. Even if you have a favorite resource for making ambient-related samples (hardware, downloaded packs, etc.) there is still a limitation on the Samples - you can play it back, make sample-based changes like rate/pitch, start, length, reverse, etc. - and even with LFO's on the track I still find it fundamentally different from actual "synth" controls (changing waveshapes, modulations, LFO of synthesis parameters, etc.). So, I feel like the Cycles has got the controllable synthesis parameters that work well with ambient music. The Cycles has also got the same rock-solid Elektron sequencer, MIDI control, and (I have not done it, but I assume) interoperability with the Samples. I think the Cycles can do a ton for ambient/drone music - I feel like it mainly comes down to alternatives within the price range. The Cycles is basically ALL about FM synthesis and that leads to a certain type of sounds. I don't find it limited, particularly if you have external effects like pedals or plug-ins. But I think I would still be considering it vs. something like the MicroFreak, which has 4-note paraphony and a lot of different synthesis methods. I hope this helps some. ps I'm working on a new Cycles video right now, hoping to upload tomorrow - it will show some different sorts of sounds and styles, maybe that info will help too.
if you were to select between :samples and :cycles, which would you select? if you were only going to select one device would you recommend the digitakt or digitone instead? i realize that this isn't really an apples to apples comparison but i'm just trying to get some things straight in my head before i get any more gear. i feel that something with percussive capabilities in a groovebox format might be what i want to get next but i need to be more certain about it before i make a leap. currently, i have both a moog matriarch and agrandmother, as well as an arturia microfreak. additionally i have the arturia pigments 2.0 software synth, and the arturia v collection 7. i've gotten a novation 61sl controller which i am starting to learn how to use with the arturia products. most recently i bought hainbach fundamental for its ambient, atmospheric sounds. any thoughts you might have overall would be welcome.
These are a lot of interesting questions🤔! I feel like I would go with Model:Samples vs. Cycles, mainly because of the sheer variety of sounds that sampling can provide (and partly based on the gear you already have). Moreover, I feel like it's a strong groovebox option in general because the sequencer is very solid and versatile. I feel like the next question of Digitakt vs. Digitone is more complex because the Digitone has a deep and explorable FM synthesis engine(compared to the Cycles). So, if you are into making synth sounds and sequencing them Digitone is really strong. That said, as a sort of thought experiment about standalone gear, I would pick the Digitakt over anything (at least anything that I own) - first, for the same reason as the Samples, variety, but even more so because of things like resampling, a mixing board, better fx architecture, overall style, etc. You have great synths and plug-ins,. A Digitakt could certainly play alongside them, but sampling your synths, resampling those sounds to make chords, pads, arpeggios, etc. - a Digitakt becomes a sort of portable music laboratory. Just my 2 cents. I know it can be tough to decide this sort of thing. Thanks for checking out the video👍🏻.
@@undulations thanks so much for your quick, and very informative, response. you've clearly given this some thought and i appreciate the results of your considerations. just based on watching your videos i had been leaning toward the :cycles but given what you say above, i feel more pulled towards either :samples or digitakt now. while i enjoy working with fm synthesis, between the 2-op fm on the microfreak, and the 6-operator dx7 emulation from the v collection, i can easily scratch that itch. while i can do some very nice granular synthesis with pigments (even loading my own samples) i must say i've been hankering after learning to use something with the groovebox format that can double as a drum machine. since :samples is currently less than half the cost of digitakt i have to wonder whether it is less than half as useful as the digitakt or if there is some factor other than utility going on with the pricing. as always, take care.
@@mathmanmrt Agreed about the price difference between Samples and Digitakt being a big factor. I think it comes down to what you envision doing with it and how you feel about the Samples limitations compared to Digitakt. If you are not trying to "get away from the computer" then that can make them somewhat more equivalent in terms of resampling, sample editing, etc. and I'd say they become closer together in terms of purely groovebox-style functionality. But for something like ambient music I feel like the Digitakt is really worth the price difference. You have a choice on whether or not the delay repeats have reverb. The filter has its own envelope. 2 more tracks of course. And then the mixing board: consider making up to 8 different loops (on the Digitakt), sampling them (on the Digitakt), and playing them all simultaneously with simple control over the mix, crossfading them, etc. It's very different in that way. Anyway, just musing about it all. Cheers👍🏻
Well, I might be repeating some of what I say in the video, but I'll give my own thoughts about these two. Up front, I'm going to just look at the two devices objectively, not worry that their prices are so different. Cycles has got: 1) actual synthesis parameters that enable a lot of sound design, 2) velocity-dependent pads, 3) very reasonable FX, filter, and LFO for sound design, and 4) a very solid sequencer. Digitakt has got: 1) nice sample editor and the ability to resample, 2) 8 tracks and a display page that allows realtime mixing of those tracks, 3) better FX, envelope control, filter, and LFO, and 4) also a very solid sequencer. Personally, I would pick Digitakt - BUT, a lot of that is based on _other_ gear that I have. I've got other synthesizers (and, for example, a BeatStep Pro for control), so the Cycles is less important to me with that in mind. But, regardless of other samplers that I have, I feel like Digitakt is _the_ sampler for me.
Undulations what an awesome and appreciated response. I’m new to the world of synthesis. Only played piano and classical guitar growing up. Starting to fall in love with all this and wanted to buy a sequencer. (Holy choices) My set up as of now is a looper (chase bliss blooper/and the mood pedal) with a delay, booster, and synth hooked up to it. Im getting bored of the stuff the synth has on it. Its a roland fantom XA (old) so I’m in the market for one of those too. My issue is though I am just new. Put me in front of a synth and I can play. Ask me about synths? Uhhhhhhh, idk lol.
Well, it's great that you're coming at it all from playing through a great pedal like the Mood, so nice. One thing that comes to mind - in terms of learning about synthesis - is the Arturia MicroBrute. Great build quality and many fundamentals of synthesis clearly exposed. It also has a lot of connectability (can be used to process external audio as well). Then, sequencer-wise, it's really hard to go wrong with a Korg SQ-1, so useful and hands on. With both, you can hook them up by midi or by control voltage - so a great deal of experimentation is possible. Best of luck figuring it all out👍🏻!
Hey, sorry to say that it isn't :( That is actually just some strips of washi tape that I got at a craft store. I think it was a pretty popular brand, so you might could just try searching for "robot washi tape", see what you come up with. Thanks a lot for watching!
Undulations thanks for the answer :) I will give it a go. I like the aesthetics of your videos, and the amount of details you are showcasing/ explaining.
I returned my Cycles as some of the grey knobs had a ‘notch’ or ‘dent’ at one point in their rotation, which felt unpleasant. Have you experienced this with yours?
Mine is okay, as is my Samples - but I've had other gear with that problem in the past. Some encoders do have a "detent" to help zero them, like maybe a balance, so maybe a wrong component sourced or put in? Or maybe just flawed somehow, idk. Sorry you had to deal with it. My Digitakt arrived with one knob that could not click, years ago, but that particular issue is fixable.
@@undulations Yeah, I sort of thought it was normal at first but quickly realised that not all of them had that.. I think I need to buy another one though and see how it is as I loved my evening with it..!
Well the M:C manual says that they are using the Digitone FM engine at its core (and the Digitone is definitely 4), but in each of the 6 "Machine" types on the M:C they are macro-ing together various FM parameters as a group; so we are only getting very specific regions of the 4-OP parameter space. So, I think it _is_ 4, but a limited 4.
@@undulations I've read about two operators in several sources, but with regard to "tone" machine ... but you're probably right. After all, it doesn't matter - machines have limited editing options to 4 parameter sets (only Elektron crew know what their are). It wuld be nice to have acces to some desktop application for more editing options, or other machines to choose... in the end it is a briliant device. Thank you for your work. Good content.
Nathan C 😂 yeah, every now and then i set them up for a shot, but most of the time i have no idea. when i am making a video they are like “WHO is he TALKING to?!??”
Thank you so much! I just started working with my new Elektron Cycles and this was soo helpful!
Absolutely😀. It's really fun, lots of great features and sounds! Thanks for checking out the video! (I think there are 3 or 4 in the series? 5?)
@@undulations Yeah perfect, gonna watch them too to learn all about it :) so happy I found this channel
I basically never comment, but your channel is one of the best discoveries I've done in AGES. Thank you so much for enriching my life, making a calm corner of knowledge in this place. Keep it up!
Hearing this means a lot :) Thank you very much for the feedback!
First video, enjoy the mixing of his voice. Calming videos.
This is how gear videos should be done. It’s obvious to me that you spend a great deal of time preparing for and shooting these videos and I appreciate that. I’m very much looking forward to whatever else you can divulge regarding the MS. Thank you, sir!
Not MS, rather MC.
Yvonne Dickerson You bet! Thanks for watching🙏🏼!
Undulations got me on oscillation mode. My g discusses his truth about synths with honesty and no bs
🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼
I’m so glad I found your channel. Very informative and interesting. Thank you for the in-depth tutorial
You're welcome! Glad you found it too! Thanks a lot for the feedback!
Thank you for this video and upcoming series. I’m going to be learning along with you on my own M:C! Wonderful, deep and interesting approach and such a calming voice in amongst the storm. 🙏🏻
James Beeson Thank you, it means a lot to hear this! I’ll be uploading a short ambient piece in a few days or so, then back the Model:Cycles.
Excellent tutorial ! Mine is on the way - Thanks for taking the time to do this informative video - I’m not quite halfway through & your tutorial on FM synthesis is great ( I’m new at this )
I’m hoping you put your drawing in front of the camera , the visual is a good idea , especially for a beginner, I hope you slap it right in the camera -
Cheers ! Diving in -/
This is amazing! You're like the Professor of Synth. I'm new to synthesis and picked up a Model Cycles and Poly D. I feel like this series should be a default fixture from Elektron. They should hire you to make their tutorial videos! I like how you explain the fundamentals in detail and do things slowly. Thanks!
You're welcome! Thanks very much for the feedback🙏🏼
I'm still amazed by the quality of the content featured in your videos. One could easily major in electronic music just by following your channel. Thanks, as always.
You're welcome! I really appreciate the kind feedback🙏🏼!
as always - best review ever! thank you so much for doing this - big fan here! your calm voice and easy way of explaining things go directly into my brain and like to sit there for a long time! bravo! want to have one now! (not so bravo:)
ge ha Thank you so much for the kind feedback🙏🏼!
Absolutely great video, best so far I've seen explaining it! Thanks so much!
Jorge Sebastián You’re welcome! Thanks for checking it out👍🏻
I ordered one last week, thanks for this video it has helped me get my head around what's going on with the controls & settings.
Cool! Thanks for the feedback. Hoping to upload another video about the Cycles in a day or two!
Thank you! Great video as always! Waiting for the next one! Already ordered cycle. I've been waiting something like this since PO-32 tonic :)
Take care!
Thank you for the feedback! Excited to hear that you're getting one - I've really enjoyed it! So true about the Tonic, amazing machine!
thks for all excellent video i've learned a lot !!! thks & congrats again
Thanks a lot for watching🙏🏼!
@@undulations Thks to you again 👌😉👍
I am really excited to watch this video. I am really interested in the model cycles, and you make the most in-depth and informative videos on synths on the internet. I can tell I'm going to learn a lot from this video, I am sure. Thank you for making such high quality videos! Please keep making them!
Thanks very much! As with other videos I've made about newly released devices, I talk quite a bit at the beginning in this one (for context) and then do an initial hands-on demonstration. More videos to follow about deeper features and how they might be used! Thanks again for the feedback!
nice ..very nice introduction the cycles and comparing background with well known other devices in my home studio ...thank you very much!!
Hey, absolutely! Thanks a lot for watching🙏🏼!
Thank you for your tutorials. I watched your Microfreak ones and learnt more from you than anywhere else. I'm now thinking of investing in the Model:Cycles. Your videos will again be a huge help for me. Much appreciated.
You're welcome! Thank you very much for the feedback! Hoping to upload another Model:Cycles video in a day or two.
Great discussion and demo! This was very informative and helpful. Thanks.
You're welcome! Thanks for the feedback🙏🏼!
Can’t wait to watch the full video - looks great! Super excited for your next one, I’m thinking of getting the cycles for ambient/soundscape/generative music
John Chesters Thank you! I appreciate you letting me know. Just getting warmed up in this one; more to follow👍🏻. Thanks for watching!
Very detailed and insightful walkthrough! Got my Cycles 2 days ago and this was hugely helpful!
Glad to hear it! Thanks for checking out the video🙏🏼!
This was a surprisingly rich and pedagogical review and walkthrough of the nuances of the different synths, and it's clear that you've used them all enough to really know what you're talking about. I *really* appreciated your map explaining the main difference between the Digitone and the Model:Cycles - that was so useful.
My only disappointment was that you later on stopped talking about the Digitone, because I'm actually specifically trying to choose between the Model:Cycles and the Digitone. I'd love to hear more from you on that. I'm not as interested in sampling, at least not right now, and besides, I can do all my sampling in Reason 10 which is my DAW of choice. FM synthesis, on the other hand, is something I don't have, plus I'm really interested in getting some kind of groovebox. I think I'm leaning towards the Digitone for the exact reason you mention with that map of FM synthesis, but also because it can route other hardware through its built in effects if I want to buy more hardware in the future. Lastly, I definitely prefer the build quality and frankly think the Model series looks a bit cheap in comparison. However, the Digitone is over twice as expensive, so I'm still hesitating because I'm not 100% sure if it really is worth the premium. Would be fantastic to get your thoughts on it given that you've used them both for quite a while. Thanks again for taking the time to make an incredibly thorough review!
Hey, thank you very much for the feedback, it means a lot👍🏻! I think your assessment is quite accurate. Better build quality and - especially - a much deeper approach to FM synthesis. In the video I talked about how that the Samples lacks resampling (relative to the Digitakt) - yet, to be clear, that can be somewhat overcome by working closely with a DAW or such. But, that said, the Cycles can never, ever, catch up to the Digitone in terms of synthesis. I like the Cycles for its sequencer, velocity-sensitive pads, and familiar interface, but wonder if the sounds are really deep enough for the long haul. And not just the synthesis: the envelope(s) on the Digitone are full-featured. How, for example, do you make a swelling pad on the Cycles without an attack parameter? (you can do it, sort of, with an LFO, but then that uses up the LFO). And then, the reverb-less delay repeats? Basically, it demands that the Cycles use an external reverb for ambient work. Anyway, I know that the price is a major factor, but I'd say that if the Digitone is possible, then it should be that. The ability to pass another source through the FX adds a lot of value too, as you say. Lastly, I'd say just trust your ears: there are demos on the Elektron website, yt videos, and especially Instagram - explore the different applications, especially similar to your own plans. Last thing, check out the end of my Model:Samples video on looping - the samples for that are ALL Digitone (passed through cassette and mangled, but still). The sounds I used were PRESETS on the Digitone, not something that I laboriously came up with🤔.
@@undulations Thank you for your thorough answer! Great suggestion to trust my ears - I've listened to many reviews and jams and there is definitely a very clear difference in richness and depth of the Digitone that I enjoy. I'm a big believer of the "buy once, cry once" philosophy, so I will definitely pick the Digitone. Thanks again!
Hey Dr Nim. Hope all good. Quiet here with Covid. Loving my Cycles. Got it a few days ago. The chord play is amazing. Great review again. Thanks
Mini Synth Collective Hey, quiet here too, glad you got your Cycles! You take care🙏🏼!
Great detailed video. I would love to see a similar series on the digitone!
Thank you and thanks for watching! I think that's a great idea. It might be a couple of months, but I do want to do some Digitone and Digitakt videos. Maybe not exactly the same sort as these - which I think of as mostly a tutorial with some specific topics - maybe sort of the opposite, where I pick some sort of special topic and use the Digitakt/Digitone as the platform, with general learning along the way.
great in depth run through! awesome stuff :)
Thank you! I feel like, if anything, the Cycles has grown on me since then. I tend to think of it as a standalone box, but I recently used it to control another synth (0Coast) from one track with beats, etc. on the others. Just really easy to set up and use👍🏻
Great video. Mine arrives on Wednesday and I look forward to learning with you in the future vids.
syncr Thank you! Very soon, I’m working on it right now👍🏻
Thank you sir . I really Appreciate this video .I'm getting the samples tomorrow.
That's exciting! Enjoy it👍🏻
Thanks for watching🙏🏼
hey really great video! i just got a cycles and i can't wait to see more in-depth exploration from you
Marcus Che Thank you for the feedback and thank you for checking it out🙏🏼! Enjoy your Model:Cycles!
Love the music you make man!
Sebastian Alarcon Thank you! It means a lot to hear that🙏🏼!
Superb vid. My ADHD runs wild when I think about all of this stuff my wallet can't even begin to consider. I have the M:S, mess around with it from time to time. A lot of fun. Just got the Cycles-- enjoying that, too... especially for ambient/meditation music. Can't even consider Digitakt or Digitone as they're far out of my price range... have the Microfreak but only played it a few times... wish that thing had reverb and delay built-in... easy fix with a multi-fx pedal connected to it, but man.. if it had it built-in, that would rule.
I wish the Models had a scale constraint option so those 16 steps were two octaves of a major/minor or a mode... or, 3 octaves of a pentatonic... it would be so easy for Elektron to add it in a firmware update.... hoping to see that eventually.....
That said... I wish the Models (and Digitakt/Digitone) offered random stuff, constrained to a scale... major/minor/pent... etc. That's one thing they're missing. You can do this with Keystep Pro and Beatstep Pro, to some extent... but even then, the randomization is a bit too random, especially octave-wise, with the KSP.
This is such a relaxing, informative video. What are your thoughts on randomization/full generative stuff and implementing something like that into the Elektron workflow? Thanks again. :)
Hey, I really appreciate such a thought-provoking comment! First thing, lest I forget, is that I've tried to do some generative things on the Cycles and the MicroFreak (there are videos for each on here), check those out if you get a chance. Understood about the scale mode for the Models. I feel like something close could be made with a sequence, sequencer logic, and maybe multiple tracks - but it wouldn't be playable on the trig keys, which i certainly see the advantage of.
But, wow are you right about the MicroFreak re: reverb and delay! I have thought about that a lot. In fact, what I could go for is a new oscillator type that is pretty basic as an oscillator BUT it has reverb/delay built in. Why not something new (I think), which is to have the Shift button change what parameters the wave/timbre/shape knobs do: then there could be synth settings on wave and digital reverb/delay settings - times, decays, filter, wet/dry, etc - on timbre and shape, using the shift button to help it all fit. We can dream! Anyway, thanks much for checking out the video and commenting!
Awesome. Sold me on a Model: Cycles. Thanks
Well, it's got a distinct sound, and I might not choose it as the only thing I have or some sort of desert island synth. BUT, that said, I feel like there is a lot to be done with it. I need to use mine more🤔...
@@undulations Just got mine today, very nice sound, I guess Model: Samples is next.
muchas gracias amigo !!
You're welcome! Thanks a lot for watching🙏🏼!
Brilliant - I learned a lot ❤
Thanks very much for the feedback🙏🏼!
Love seeing you play Onirim Aerion
Geert CE Thanks :) The Onirim games are so nice, really love the artwork and game design. I tend to go for solitaire/co-op games that don’t take a whole lot of time to play (tough getting my teen kids to sit at a game without it turning into a scene). Thanks for watching!
hello friend, I'm starting to watch some serious videos about the Model:cycles, which I intend will be the next purchase. maybe in some time, since this month I've already spent enough with Behringer Crave and Roland Mc101😅
I hope the videos have been helpful👍🏻
warning : those factory patterns and sounds presets are better music than all the demos played on YT !
I've always wondered about the process: is it a large pool of sounds and patterns that get voted on? idk, but on the Digitakt the first bank, first pattern is my favorite (Subaquatic). It's like I was a baby bird that bonded to it on first bootup.
Flatten the curve wow that aged well .
Hope springs eternal🫡
@@undulations 🦇💉
Great Video! Thanks for easy to understand explanations. Couple of things I’m not clear on. The factory folder sounds, are those sample sounds that come with the unit or are they presets sounds of a “machine?” Im assuming you can tweak them the same right just like the machines?
Are the machines sound design limited only to the 4 knobs you were manipulating?
Hey, thanks for watching! I guess I should refer to them as "Factory presets" - yes, these are just a collection of settings that load into the device, no sample. You can load a Factory preset into your project and tweak it however you like, save that (I think the originals are write-protected). In fact, if you just turn it on out of the box and try to save something - it will have you do a "Save As..." into a new project, where you will also have all of the as-shipped patterns to modify as well.
As for the 4 knobs only? Sort of yes and no. Those are the 4 really fundamental settings, but then you have all sorts of additional settings like delay send and type, reverb send and type, overdrive/distortion, using the LFO, velocity, and retrigger to make the sound possibilities even broader. And then there is also using the sequencer to modify sounds on the fly. Keep posted and I'll try to show much of this in coming videos!
Thank u!
reasons You are welcome🙏🏼!
can i follow along with the model:samples?
nice robots
Thanks🙏🏼!
Interested in your opinion. I have the Samples but my interest is more in sound design, drones and ambience. I can get some sounds out of the MS but struggle with it as the OSC sounds are often steppy unless I put a single Trig into Infinite decay. In your opinion is the Cycles better for ambient/ drone work?
I guess it partly comes down to how you like to make and use samples for ambient. Even if you have a favorite resource for making ambient-related samples (hardware, downloaded packs, etc.) there is still a limitation on the Samples - you can play it back, make sample-based changes like rate/pitch, start, length, reverse, etc. - and even with LFO's on the track I still find it fundamentally different from actual "synth" controls (changing waveshapes, modulations, LFO of synthesis parameters, etc.). So, I feel like the Cycles has got the controllable synthesis parameters that work well with ambient music. The Cycles has also got the same rock-solid Elektron sequencer, MIDI control, and (I have not done it, but I assume) interoperability with the Samples. I think the Cycles can do a ton for ambient/drone music - I feel like it mainly comes down to alternatives within the price range. The Cycles is basically ALL about FM synthesis and that leads to a certain type of sounds. I don't find it limited, particularly if you have external effects like pedals or plug-ins. But I think I would still be considering it vs. something like the MicroFreak, which has 4-note paraphony and a lot of different synthesis methods. I hope this helps some.
ps I'm working on a new Cycles video right now, hoping to upload tomorrow - it will show some different sorts of sounds and styles, maybe that info will help too.
@@undulations Thanks so much for that info!
how do you covert a .wav to by mc-pst for the model cycles to recognize it?
Hmmm, this is not something I am familiar with. A wav file can be used to determine Model:Cycles parameters?
if you were to select between :samples and :cycles, which would you select? if you were only going to select one device would you recommend the digitakt or digitone instead? i realize that this isn't really an apples to apples comparison but i'm just trying to get some things straight in my head before i get any more gear. i feel that something with percussive capabilities in a groovebox format might be what i want to get next but i need to be more certain about it before i make a leap.
currently, i have both a moog matriarch and agrandmother, as well as an arturia microfreak. additionally i have the arturia pigments 2.0 software synth, and the arturia v collection 7. i've gotten a novation 61sl controller which i am starting to learn how to use with the arturia products. most recently i bought hainbach fundamental for its ambient, atmospheric sounds. any thoughts you might have overall would be welcome.
These are a lot of interesting questions🤔! I feel like I would go with Model:Samples vs. Cycles, mainly because of the sheer variety of sounds that sampling can provide (and partly based on the gear you already have). Moreover, I feel like it's a strong groovebox option in general because the sequencer is very solid and versatile. I feel like the next question of Digitakt vs. Digitone is more complex because the Digitone has a deep and explorable FM synthesis engine(compared to the Cycles). So, if you are into making synth sounds and sequencing them Digitone is really strong. That said, as a sort of thought experiment about standalone gear, I would pick the Digitakt over anything (at least anything that I own) - first, for the same reason as the Samples, variety, but even more so because of things like resampling, a mixing board, better fx architecture, overall style, etc. You have great synths and plug-ins,. A Digitakt could certainly play alongside them, but sampling your synths, resampling those sounds to make chords, pads, arpeggios, etc. - a Digitakt becomes a sort of portable music laboratory. Just my 2 cents. I know it can be tough to decide this sort of thing. Thanks for checking out the video👍🏻.
@@undulations thanks so much for your quick, and very informative, response. you've clearly given this some thought and i appreciate the results of your considerations.
just based on watching your videos i had been leaning toward the :cycles but given what you say above, i feel more pulled towards either :samples or digitakt now. while i enjoy working with fm synthesis, between the 2-op fm on the microfreak, and the 6-operator dx7 emulation from the v collection, i can easily scratch that itch. while i can do some very nice granular synthesis with pigments (even loading my own samples) i must say i've been hankering after learning to use something with the groovebox format that can double as a drum machine.
since :samples is currently less than half the cost of digitakt i have to wonder whether it is less than half as useful as the digitakt or if there is some factor other than utility going on with the pricing. as always, take care.
@@mathmanmrt Agreed about the price difference between Samples and Digitakt being a big factor. I think it comes down to what you envision doing with it and how you feel about the Samples limitations compared to Digitakt. If you are not trying to "get away from the computer" then that can make them somewhat more equivalent in terms of resampling, sample editing, etc. and I'd say they become closer together in terms of purely groovebox-style functionality. But for something like ambient music I feel like the Digitakt is really worth the price difference. You have a choice on whether or not the delay repeats have reverb. The filter has its own envelope. 2 more tracks of course. And then the mixing board: consider making up to 8 different loops (on the Digitakt), sampling them (on the Digitakt), and playing them all simultaneously with simple control over the mix, crossfading them, etc. It's very different in that way. Anyway, just musing about it all. Cheers👍🏻
Cycles or digitakt? If I were to choose. Whats the greatest part of each? Would love to hear peoples opinions.
Well, I might be repeating some of what I say in the video, but I'll give my own thoughts about these two. Up front, I'm going to just look at the two devices objectively, not worry that their prices are so different. Cycles has got: 1) actual synthesis parameters that enable a lot of sound design, 2) velocity-dependent pads, 3) very reasonable FX, filter, and LFO for sound design, and 4) a very solid sequencer. Digitakt has got: 1) nice sample editor and the ability to resample, 2) 8 tracks and a display page that allows realtime mixing of those tracks, 3) better FX, envelope control, filter, and LFO, and 4) also a very solid sequencer. Personally, I would pick Digitakt - BUT, a lot of that is based on _other_ gear that I have. I've got other synthesizers (and, for example, a BeatStep Pro for control), so the Cycles is less important to me with that in mind. But, regardless of other samplers that I have, I feel like Digitakt is _the_ sampler for me.
Undulations what an awesome and appreciated response. I’m new to the world of synthesis. Only played piano and classical guitar growing up. Starting to fall in love with all this and wanted to buy a sequencer. (Holy choices)
My set up as of now is a looper (chase bliss blooper/and the mood pedal) with a delay, booster, and synth hooked up to it. Im getting bored of the stuff the synth has on it. Its a roland fantom XA (old) so I’m in the market for one of those too.
My issue is though I am just new. Put me in front of a synth and I can play. Ask me about synths? Uhhhhhhh, idk lol.
Well, it's great that you're coming at it all from playing through a great pedal like the Mood, so nice. One thing that comes to mind - in terms of learning about synthesis - is the Arturia MicroBrute. Great build quality and many fundamentals of synthesis clearly exposed. It also has a lot of connectability (can be used to process external audio as well). Then, sequencer-wise, it's really hard to go wrong with a Korg SQ-1, so useful and hands on. With both, you can hook them up by midi or by control voltage - so a great deal of experimentation is possible. Best of luck figuring it all out👍🏻!
The Digitakt has just become a whole lot more powerful too!
The most important question would be; is that blue robot sticker on your Cycles included in the box?
Hey, sorry to say that it isn't :(
That is actually just some strips of washi tape that I got at a craft store. I think it was a pretty popular brand, so you might could just try searching for "robot washi tape", see what you come up with. Thanks a lot for watching!
Undulations thanks for the answer :) I will give it a go. I like the aesthetics of your videos, and the amount of details you are showcasing/ explaining.
Neo Nasi Goreng Thank you very much🙏🏼! ps I looked online - the tape is like $6 for a roll, Scotch makes it.
I returned my Cycles as some of the grey knobs had a ‘notch’ or ‘dent’ at one point in their rotation, which felt unpleasant. Have you experienced this with yours?
Mine is okay, as is my Samples - but I've had other gear with that problem in the past. Some encoders do have a "detent" to help zero them, like maybe a balance, so maybe a wrong component sourced or put in? Or maybe just flawed somehow, idk. Sorry you had to deal with it. My Digitakt arrived with one knob that could not click, years ago, but that particular issue is fixable.
@@undulations Yeah, I sort of thought it was normal at first but quickly realised that not all of them had that.. I think I need to buy another one though and see how it is as I loved my evening with it..!
@@brokenscart7989 Cool👍🏻 Glad to hear that!
Are you sure about does 4 operators on Cycles? I think its a half of it.
Well the M:C manual says that they are using the Digitone FM engine at its core (and the Digitone is definitely 4), but in each of the 6 "Machine" types on the M:C they are macro-ing together various FM parameters as a group; so we are only getting very specific regions of the 4-OP parameter space. So, I think it _is_ 4, but a limited 4.
@@undulations I've read about two operators in several sources, but with regard to "tone" machine ... but you're probably right. After all, it doesn't matter - machines have limited editing options to 4 parameter sets (only Elektron crew know what their are). It wuld be nice to have acces to some desktop application for more editing options, or other machines to choose... in the end it is a briliant device. Thank you for your work. Good content.
11:40 Kitty enters the chat! Also user pre set space = 60,000 Ess from Elektron was saying so more than enough! Cheers
Nathan C 😂 yeah, every now and then i set them up for a shot, but most of the time i have no idea. when i am making a video they are like “WHO is he TALKING to?!??”
the cat disappeared...
Acid O. Philous It’s a cheshire👍🏻