Check out Model Cycles here: EU: thmn.to/thoprod/486110?offid=1&affid=623 US: imp.i114863.net/vXDbj (affiliate links support the channel regardless of what you buy)
You'd be soo much better off getting a Neutron instead of a Crave, especially because the Crave sounds so similar to the 303. I'd honestly swap the M:S for an Electron 2s too, because it's a sampler and a synth
@@gelatinous6915 ended up selling almost all my gear and getting a Polyend Tracker and a Hydrasynth desktop. You can pick up both for around £1k at Thomann atm
If I was playing with this on a train people would think I'm adjusting my medical device. I needs wires coming off of it that you can patch onto your skin for added confusion.
Used to being the odd man out by this point in my life but I LOVE how this sounds and functions. Been considering Samples for a while but every time I have some $ I get something else instead. THIS on the other hand will be my next purchase. These are the kinds of sounds (and ability to manipulate on the fly) that I am after. I also really like my Volca Drum which isn't everbody's Cup O' Noodles either. You do you.
@@scarfypedia About to go pick mine up from FedEx now! Can only hope that this marks the beginning of a trend of these sound-sculpting beat/groove-boxes. Forget Behringer clones of 20-30yr old gear. Volca Drum and Model: Cycles = the future.
@@EnochDark the cycles is basically everything I wish the Drum could be haha, especially being able to tune EVERYTHING. I'm curious to see how it performs with the Drum too
@@scarfypedia yeah well it does cost 2x as much so that's kinda like saying a bass station 2 is what you wish your volca bass was... but yeah i believe there is fun to be had combining them too. :D
The Drum gives me TWO layers for each sound...something this won't do AFAIK. And I've yet to hear a great hihat from Cycles, although I'm sure it can be done. But yeah...I love my Drum, but hate it too. I was hoping this was a bigger step up than it seems to be. But I still want one.
Excellent review, Bo. Once again, you stepped up your video creation magic... All those overlays and boxes did not only look cool, but were really informative. The cycles looks and sounds nice.
I‘ll run the model:samples and model:cycles into the octatrack using thru-machines. That way you can add eqs and compressors to the both model: machines and have 18 tracks in total in a super compact setup 🤤
Great review, Bo. What attracts me most about this groovebox is the percussive, shamelessly FM bass sounds. I've got a fantastic VSTi called Donk Machine which does just that, and I'd be interested if the MODEL:CYCLES is a significant upgrade to that, or the same sounds in a nice box? If you did a deep dive into the bass part of this device I would certainly watch it.
@@BoBeats Have you seen these overlays? They make the M:Samples look a lot better. I am sure they will make it for the Cycles - www.oversynth.com/elektron-model-samples-overlays
Great Review! Im really feeling this machine simply for percussion and some synths. Would love to see this and the Model:Samples flowing together! Or even with the Circuit!
If anybody at Elektron is listening - if you are going to do anything else cut down - the digitone without the sequencer but with 16 voices and more control knobs/sliders would surely be a hit. Not everybody wants/needs the sequencer stuff and the digitone fm synth architecture + effects is one of the nicest/easiest to use implementations I’ve seen for fm.
@@BoBeats is this true? can you say without breaking an NDA how many other elektron products unreleased you have or have used? its not saying what they just how many...
Liam Sparling Bo has their whole lineup to be released between 2020-2025. They were able to develop these machines behind our backs while pretending they are working on Overbridge 2.0. Ever wondered why they never finished it? Exactly.
#BoBeats Nice job my man! I prefer FM radio over AM radio so I know I'll like this. The sounds are awesome. What a cool instrument. Looks like it would be great for holiday on Mars. Lots of potential. Wonder how it would play with my Moog One? Does it have Overbridge? I currently live under a bridge after buying a Moog One! I live in a van down by the river. 6 track groove box offers many musical options. As always, you delivered another wonderful musical demo. Excellent job! Here's a drink to world peace!
I think it looks cool. Depends alot on how much it will cost, but I think this is one of those devices that have some interesting limitations that will spark creativety as one aquires a workflow that evades those limitations. The drums sounds pretty good.
Really great video Bo. I enjoyed your logical way of going through the Cycles. It made this look so simple but deep and powerful at the same time. If I get one, I’ll be revisiting this again.
It is a great inspirational tool...your review is spot on. The Model Cycles has the simplicity for a novice and the depth for someone with more skills. I am a teacher and I am constantly looking for great instruments to show and let my students experiment with. Thank you for your videos, they are among the best when looking for honest feedback and info on hardware
If same price as Model Samples at $299.99 it’s not bad. I just grabbed Model Samples to dip a toe into Elektron’s sequencing. Tho tbh I’ve been finishing up an album I did with my MPC Renaissance which I just sent to distributors so haven’t fooled with it too much. I’m awaiting the MyVolt’s USB Cable to power the Model Samples then I can mess with it during coffee break and lunch. Initial impressions are positive.
I would really like to know if there are more present sounds on board for say bass sounds ,, punchier kicks?? Do you think it lends its self to techno?? Or would the sample be a better option? Great vid!!
Thank you for the great review - also the hands-on helped me understand the parameter locks better. I agree with this 100% - great sequencer indeed, even if the synth editing leaves lots to be desired.
I like your new haircut Bo ... although it might not be new, I haven't watched any of your vids for a while. I always go back and forth between shorter/styled and just long/tied-back. It's normally just down to laziness. "Better get a haircut." 18 months later "I'll get that haircut".
I'm actually looking at this mainly for the sequencer and the fact ( you didn't mention) that the 6 tracks can also be midi to control other synths. Which is what i would like ti use it for as I have a drumbrute, td3 and microkorg . So i'd like to know have you tried using it to control other synths ?
Good Video mr Bo! I'm absolutely with you with the Pro's and Con's. it looks quite good and sounds pretty good as well ... nothing I would spend my $$$ on but definitely cool to get into elektron synths. Especially for beginners i would recommend the Roland mc101 instead of the Model Cycles. :) Cheers!
It's basically Elektron's version of a Circuit, OP-Z, MC-101, or Electribe. Er, Elektron's *second* version. Will probably be popular among people wanting a groovebox.
That jam at 5:10 is SUCH a bop 🎶 I returned my circuit do to the inability to turn off specific midi send channels (I use a few omni receiving synths). It probably still would have been great for jamming DAWless, but 1/4 of the tracks being useless in my setup kind of ruined it for me. I'm not terribly upset though, 'cause this was my backup choice and I think its unique character will inspire very different music from using my plugins 😁
Awesome video Bo! Love it. What are your thoughts on purely groove box territory? I've got a bunch of NI gear for the "digital / software computed based music" fun. Then Moog/Arturia (including keystep) for semi-modular. So I'm not 100% if I need yet another sequencer to learn (even if its awesome, the microbrute 2s's and mother 32 and keystep are keeping me busy!). This or the circuit for something I could eventually integrate to the above, but really just want to sit on the couch with headphones?
Appreciate the video! Learned several things, I really like it. I am no producer so I use it for jamming and I love the sound in general and especially the sequencer like you said, especially for the price! Thanks again and take care
I bought this as a sequencer for my Monologue with a FM flavour. Sequencing transposed sequences of MLG with MC appear to be interesting cocept - sequencer madness :)
Oi. Thanks for a review. Is there an option for polymetry? To set up different number of steps? Btw too many electric bicycle ads when searching up this thing)
Thank you Bo, nice review as always! Sounds good but the feeling with the box is, for me, way far from the Digitakt, Digitone etc... which are more attractive and inspirational Elektron's gears. But ok, the target is not the same. All the best
Thank you for the overview. I am not feeling this but as you said I think it’s definitely an entry level for an introduction into Elektrons and has some good functionality. One thing I do hate is the look of it same as last years sampler, just seems so non Elektron to me and I have been an Elektron user from the first day they came out. Anyway I digress, it will have its place and hope those who buy it enjoy it very much as it’s what you get out of it that counts.
Fantastic overview/demo! I have a Digitone - and it's great... but SOOOO deep it almost feels like 'too much' for how I want to use it. I love the cycles 'simplified' control/models. It just seems more jam-like/explorative than the Digitone due to this. Any comparative thoughts? I might trade mine in for this 'simpler' machine - LOL!
I have the Model:Samples. The manual is an easy read and it has clear instructions. It is the funnest I have ever had with a groovebox. It sounds great, easy to use and keeps your creative juices flowing. I will definitely be adding the Model:Cycles!
Bo, please tell me why in some cases you use a MIDI hub, and in some MIDI hosts. what is the difference between them when using usb devices like midi usb controllers? ... thank you for the answer.
I like the sound of it Bo, but mein Gott, what happened to the design, the colour. It seems somehow it bypassed the usual stylish Swedish design, but I guess you listen with your ears not your eyes. Keep up the good work Bo.
Can U play -or sample your synths 9Not sure what synth locking is )through novation Circuit trx-Ive just started I watched your vid on circuit and I really want it though I am away to but a mixer so I can jam for ideas-any sugestion
I learned with my Waldorf microQ just how much I can't stand digital encoders... They don't have the same direct feel over the sound that you get from a good ol' potentiometer.
Damn. I hadn’t even thought about that! I was thinking about one of these but I hate those digital encoders too after bad experience with the same Waldorf synth!! Nothing ever quite sucked so bad as those .. but surely, after 20 years the quality of these things must have improved ..?
@@DarrenSangita Sorry - I didn't mean that the quality was comparable... only the fact that they both use encoders instead of potentiometers. Encoders might require you to spin the knob several complete rotations to change a setting from its minimum to maximum values. Single-turn pots on the other hand have a rotation usually between 270-300 degrees. For most features (especially for analog synthesis), I feel more in control of the sound with single-turn pots.
One other thing I should add... unlike most scenarios with potentiometers, there is usually some kind of software-based algorithm involved with digital encoders. That means the feel between one implementation and another can be vastly different. I should probably at least experience the Elektor knobs before simply writing them off...
I actually get what you mean John. The Model:Samples can be difficult to get sounding good because its a limited sampler and you really need to dig into the Elektron sequencer to make it shine. What I like about the Cycle is that it makes more sense... Its not just a limited sample player, the (limited) synth engine is still deep enough to offer complexity needed. But... If Samples wasn't your thing I wouldn't go for the Cycles unless you are loving what you see/hear
BoBeats I was thinking the same Bo, the cycles seems to make much more sense than the samples, in this Model: design. I’m not shitting on either device, or Elektron. Each to their own, I just didn’t gel with the Samples (and I struggled to get the best out of the sequencer). I’m using an SP505, years old, loads of limitations, very very basic sequencer, but I get on with that machine.
Im in the market for a new drum machine. I cant decide between this or the digitakt. Also with all the menu diving that’s possible on these machines. You’d think they would do a bit more detailed screen. The screens are still looking like they came out of the 80s.
@@BoBeats I have the circuit and got the MC-707 about a month ago and love it. Just wanted to make sure I didn't overpay for something, but while this looks good, the 707 fits my workflow sooo well.
It’s good Electron has entered the budget market, however I feel the drums sound weak. It may be useful for adding a different texture to tracks but for me not strong enough for the important drum sounds. A great demo nevertheless Bo well done :)
Sounds can be so subjective, so I say that a groovebox is only as good as it's sequencer. The elektron sequencer workflow isn't for everyone, but no one can say it isn't insanely powerful.
hey bo how are you hope u doing well I wanted to ask u a question... I had a midi controller it's the m audio code 61 but the problem is that I am pianist and I want to go dawless and I don't know what to do or buy can u help me with that ??
Elektron should think about an OT 2 (not MK3) beside building cheap Groovebox starter kits as re-use of existing devices (Digitakt, Digitone). I know the OT MK2 is nearly perfect but more effects, a part per pattern, sample randomization, Pattern generator, Easier sampling,.., easier Looper, Step. components like OP-Z, a synth engine included, sample changing /layering,...
You contradict yourself at several points throughout the video, but this one was particularly noteworthy as it happened just 1.5 minutes apart: 17:08 "this groovebox is definitely more powerful than the specs suggest. If you look at each individual machine, you might say 'it's quite limited,' but in all honesty ... you can do quite a lot with it." 18:30 "It's easy to understand and easy to use, especially in a live environment, but it's also very limited." So, which is it? Limited or not??
"it's actually very simple" *Holds two buttons to do some menu diving* But that does look useful for people with limited space. I'd been looking for something to capture the feel of my EMX which I foolishly sold, this might really do it.
@@BoBeats true... I think I'm just intimidated by the roland as it is not just my first groove box, but my first piece of electronic hardware ever. I'm hoping this weekend to get a better grasp of it
Hmmm,I bought the model:samples last june for € 449 (availabe it was since january) and since december or january it is € 299. Can we expect a similiar price drop (~30 %) with the model:cycles after, say, a year ? It's now about € 330,- . Could then be about 200,- (all prices incl. VAT). The lack of Overbridge integration makes both model:xxx not really attractive. They would be really nice instruments with at least a native editor for the patterns. Novation Circuit Mono Station is now 270 € incl. VAT, btw. The original Circuit seems to be out of production. So, competitive price, that's not really a thing (but was it ever with Elektron ?).
As fugly as it is I think this excites me more than Maschine because it isn't software dependant. I don't like the looks but the sound is fantastic for something in that size and price range. I'll be getting one at some point in the near future.
I love my Maschine (and jam and s49 kontrol) - but I almost treat that as an extension of my computer (which is a desktop so not portable at all). This kind of stuff (and the semi-modular synths I've been playing with) are the complete "unplugged" variants of that. However, between this and the circuit I'm leaning towards the circuit due honestly to its battery powered sit on the couch potential.
@@Daphoid Do you know that if you power Maschine via the USB with no data connection it goes into MIDI CC mode and will send and receive data through the MIDI port? I've been using it with my Elektribe SX for a couple years now and it works great. That's where I got the idea to use it with this Electron.
