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Don’t overlook Elektron’s budget electronic music instruments
The Verge • • general
Key Points:
- Elektron's Model:Samples and Model:Cycles grooveboxes are budget-friendly instruments ideal for beginners in electronic music, offering approachable workflows compared to the company's more complex gear.
- Model:Cycles uses FM synthesis based on the Digitone engine, producing classic and modern sounds, while Model:Samples plays preloaded samples that must be loaded via USB, not recorded directly.
- Both devices feature a six-track sequencer with velocity-sensitive pads and hands-on controls, incorporating "trigs" and "locks" for advanced step sequencing and creative flexibility beyond their apparent limitations.
- The grooveboxes emphasize live performance fun with features like Control-all, enabling simultaneous manipulation of all tracks for dynamic sound effects and improvisation.
- Despite some drawbacks such as mediocre pads, lack of polyphony, and sample loading limitations, their affordable price point (around $349 new or $200 used) makes them excellent entry points for aspiring electronic musicians.
