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Free shipping
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The Elektron Model:Cycles is a compact 6-track groovebox with FM synthesis and sequencer. In design and operating concept it follows the Model:Samples. The flat housing, together with the compact display and the many encoders, emphasizes the simplified handling of complex sounds and makes it easy for the user to get familiar with it. The Elektron Model:Cycles Groovebox draws its sonic diversity from the six different FM models (machines), split between Kick, Snare, Metal, Perc, Tone and Chord, which will reveal far more than its namesakes might at first suggest. The sounds provided in the project can be organized in kits on six tracks and directly edited with 15 knobs. Parameters for playback function, LFO and effects such as delay and reverb conjure up new variations to the created sounds in no time.
Of course, the Elektron Model:Cycles Groovebox also features the typical Elektron sequencer: six audio or MIDI tracks. Microtiming, swing and individual step lengths of 1-64 steps per track allow exciting patterns even beyond the 4/4 grid. Of course you won't miss the beloved parameter locks! All relevant parameters can be found directly on the surface, making jumping between menu pages unnecessary. The compact lightweight finds its place almost everywhere and is immediately ready for use. It is recommended to think of the MIDI adapter cables when moving to a new location.
Elektron Model:CyclesThis was my first groovebox. I was struggling to choose between Model:Cycles and Novation Circuit Tracks. Although Model:Cycles is more constrained in terms of the sound synthesis, it is a more self-contained unit than Circuit Tracks. However, if you want a sampler, Model:Cycles is not an option as it is based on FM synth engine.
It should be noted that this is an entry-level groovebox. There are some features missing, like individual outputs. But this is compensated by the price. You should definitely listen to default patches, some jams. Model:Cycles will always sound alike with some metallicity, but that is not a bad thing. Nevertheless, it is quite versatile in terms of sounds you can get from it. For non-beginners, Model:Cycles can also be inspiring, serving as a great FM-based drum machine.
Apart from that Model:Cycles can be used as a standalone sequencer. There are not many cons when it comes to the Elektron sequencers. Alas, all tracks will be monophonic.
I really didn't expect the Model:Cycles to be as exciting as it is. Crazy really as Elektron rarely fail to deliver. It's just so in-depth for a piece of hardware of it's price. Granted, it does also have it's limitations but I think that if you paired this with the Model:Samples, you'd be in a world of possibilities. I may do just that once I've got my head round this Model.
All in all a solid buy for the price!
Build is good (yes it's plastic I know), encoders and buttons work well, no stickiness or stiffness but the pads are way too stiff for finger drumming so you will have to use an external controller for that. Sequencer has some depth and will take some time to learn if you are not familiar with Elektron sequencers. The one function per knob synth parameter controls are great and shift functions are logical. Menus are fine but the screen is tiny. It's actually not a problem tho. There's actually not a lot to the menus on this one which will be a welcome change for some.
It sounds very good with plenty of range on each voice. However it does have "a sound" but so does a 606 or an 808 or a 303, so if you like what it does it never really sounds bad.
The only negative for me are those pads but I can live with using another controller for velocity real time playing; the vast majority of the time I'm programming the sequencer anyway. I actually think it's a future classic as you can get a lot from it and working within the limitations that it has is kind of the point of this style of design. It's great for just turning on and noodling away for hours, very immediate and fun and it strikes me as very suitable for incorporation into a live setup. Nice one Elektron.
Got this a couple of days after it came out, always fantastic service and speedy delivery from dv247.
Elektron did leave people wondering what they were bringing out as their new product, some were expecting a new one of their more expensive and deep machines but this little groove box is impressive.
I was after something to fill a gap my drum machine, sampler and sythns were not quite covering.
I must say I am more than happy with the model:cycles, it's instant, the FM synthesis gives brilliant basic (but enough) mangleability mixed with an elektron sequencer and the FX you can do all sorts with it. Fattens my tunes out filling empty space.
Would definitely recommend it, I'm not the best at expressing in writing, go out and get your hands on one.
If you're umming and ahhing about buying one just do it, pull the trigger bite the bullet and buy one.
Have fun :)
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