▲ bo, i really appreciate you following up on this! i loved your initial review, and addressing these comments is super valuable! also, your editing is on point, and so are your sandals! ps. syntakt is on its way to me 💚
I just want to mention this and put this out there, I value your channel a lot Bo and I think it is extremely important to have such great diversity amongst our fabulous synth gear reviewers on YT … there are tips from your video that I could not find in other places, and that for me is invaluable in getting the feedback I need for a potential future purchase. Keep it up mate, I will have your back any day! And as last note, don’t be so hard on yourself, you make the best Dad-synth-dance bangers of them all! BoomTschakk!
You and Loop bring a lot to the table, whilst Bo has cost me money, you did 1st. Both of you and many others have contributed to what I have amassed as my little humble set up. When I say cost, I mean you encouraged me to buy something i would never have, experimenting with it and keeping it or selling it, it didn't matter, what mattered was I got to experience something 1sthand because you guys showed me benefits of said gear. Just keep doing what you're doing, you do it well and that's all that matters.
Thank you for answering questions about the Syntakt and getting some nuanced information out in the world! ^^ Been wanting to integrate a hardware drum machine into my DAW-dependent setup for a few years now, and after feeling that every drum machine on the market would be a compromise one way or another, it's super refreshing to have something like the Syntakt hit the market and just be exactly what I was looking for. I can't speak for anyone else, but it literally ticks all my weirdly specific boxes as someone who "has been producing for quite some time" and know exactly what I'm looking for :D
I really like this format of video, Bo! The Syntakt makes me feel lucky to have waited so long to buy an Elektron device. Digital AND analog Elektron sounds & effects in one box - yes please!
@@livinproof718 I have to disagree. They arent better imo. I think the Syntakt is better than the Digitone and the Digitakt is its own system so I dont think you could even remotely compare the two. However I think the Digitakt and the Syntakt together are an incredible combination.
Big respect Bo, you always engage yourself in the comments, and I couldn’t agree more about a combination of RYTM and Digitakt in one box. Me personally would prefer combination of the A4 and Digitakt, that includes a master and S/C compression topped of with the sweetest shimmer reverb.
I have a few elektron boxes, notably the rytm, a4, and ot. I preordered a syntakt here in the states as I’ve really wanted an all in one type box for traveling or time away from home. Sketch pad / launching point I can plug in and sample or recreate on the big boys when I get home.
Thanks again Bo. Great as always. I'm with you on being excited about this. (mine arrives today). For my live performance setup it will replace my Digitone (I was never that into the fm side but I loved having 4 voice synth in the small form factor). I can't wait to swap out 4 voices for 12! Also being able the process external instruments through the analog effects is huge for me as I run a Quadrantid Swarm and 1010 blackbox through. I don't see this in my studio as the Rytm handles drums and I have other synths (and plugins) for plenty of voices, but for my live performances this is an amazing upgrade. Thanks again!
While I don't know if I'm going to buy the syntakt. But I love that they used the same black box for this that they used for the digitone and digitakt. It makes it much quicker to learn and they fit so nicely together.
@@BoBeats But its really worth it in my opinion. You put all the work in the review and you are the best person to answer most questions anyway :) Especialy for products like this, where a lot of people are interested in it anyway. Thanks Bo!
Im really looking into getting one, but what hold me back at first was the fact that you basicly dont get any polyphony outside of the special machine. Especially for MIDI sequencing, that was a huge downer... BUT then i read this on their website: "If you want to invite your other instruments to Syn City, they’re more than welcome. A MIDI machine can be assigned to any of the 12 synth tracks, with four-note polyphony, LFOs and plenty more." And suddenly, im completely hooked again :D
Maybe i should have watched your first impression video completely, so i missed the part where you talked about that... but no one else mentioned it for whatever reason...
Love how you're "serving yourself" as we say in Swedish. It's very likeable and you come across as so wholesome. Thanks for your hard work in front of the camera!
I really enjoyed this video very much. Both from the perspective of a potential buyer and also as someone who absolutey loves well-made videos (informative and creative) just like this one 😍
The argument that this is a hodgepodge of other devices is weird. I don't have any of their boxes. But this one is the most attractive to me. Taking ideas and things from other devices, and putting them into a new one doesn't make it less good, it allows it to serve a different group of people
This is what an Electribe 2 should have been. The whole Compact Black Series is basically a grown up Er-1, EA-1, and ES-1. It's brilliant, I want all three. I'm poor though.
Nice video. I own the octatrack digitakt and analog four. I had the rytm but sold it a bit of regret and realy wanted to try the cycles. This one gives me improved cycles and a few rytm channel.. Perfect.
If it has a 1tb storage and updates are to be expected, than there is something to be said about this. How vorsatile can this storage be used I wonder.
A cool hack for polyphony I use on my digitakt and that I guess should work with the syntakt is using a midi filter machine that can cycle thru channels per press.
Sorry the internet is so toxic Bo, seeing negative comments popping up on your videos is really sad, this just shouldn't be the place for it.. you seem like such a great guy. Keep doing you. Hope you enjoy the Syntakt and it brings you a lot of joy and creative outlet. I'm holding out to see what the new Polyend (deluge-like) device is all about. Probably my most anticipated gear of the year. This looks really cool but I have a lot of synth drums sampled onto my digitakt already and while I won't have as much control over them, I guess.. I'm happy with what I've got. And that's totally ok 🤣 the Digitakt and digitone keys combo lives on!
Matt has been putting out a lot of fun videos, for sure. The Syntakt is the Elektron box that interests me the most so far. I own a Cycles, it frustrates me highly.
Great questions! And thanks to the Discord community for addressing mine even though it didn't make the cut. I've not been a fan of the Elektron UI, I feel like they are the scientific calculator of gear, so I will move on. Cheers.
The Elektron interface is a genuinely fresh take on the old concept of a tracker. In some ways, it's a huge upgrade compared to its origins. Like, it has virtually unlimited modifier columns (er, p-locks) per step, and entering the data is easier and more intuitive than editing a spreadsheet. Unfortunately, it's also kind of a downgrade in some ways, and other tracker-derived grooveboxes have arguably made more meaningful improvements. The Dirtywave M8, for example, has less intuitive data entry but has a fantastic song mode which functions kind of like a sequenced multi-track clip launcher. It works really well for composing songs from a bunch of reusable little pieces. Meanwhile, Elektron generally has no song mode at all, and certainly not a multi-dimensional song structure. The amount of friction in the Elektron workflow increases exponentially with the number of patterns. So it's not very compatible with traditional song composition, and instead, people mostly use Elektron gear to make short loops where they (un)mute tracks and turn knobs to make it less repetitive. It's too bad the firmware isn't open-source... because all the downsides could be fixed by modifying the code. The hardware is great, and the sound engines are great, but it could really use a more robust song structure and some workflow improvements.
6:10 I agree with this. If you already have some Elektron non-Model boxes, this is probably a bit redundant. That isn’t bad by any means. But this certainly would be a good first or second box for many people.
This is actually what I wanted as I want analogue drum machine and synth sounds. I have Elektron Model Samples and Arturia MicroFreak and together they seem to be able to do more that Syntakt alone but in my case I want one unit to work with. I decided to sell Model Samples and MicroFreak in favor of Syntakt. Am I crazy?
Obviously no samples to use any more but There’s enough crazy sounds that the syntakt can make that Samples wouldn’t always be necessary although there is the £65 PO sampler. Owe and the sonicware smpletrek when it eventually comes out is gunu be a game changer. I also can’t wait to get this syntakt beast next year when I get some money saved. See how this inflating economy goes innit.
I’ve had m cycles twice thought it sounded good but it always sounded like a m cycles it needed Adsr amps , filters etc .Now it’s got all that with analogue machines , just ordered it to go with digitakt & tone can’t wait.
I own a Circuit: Tracks and my old Korg Monotribe. Up to now, I couldn't get much out of them, other than some usual loops. Are there any grooveboxes that actually complement the Circuit Tracks, rather then replace it? Even a Modal Cycles would make more sense than Syntakt, because of the knob-per-function style. Still looking out for my next purchase, as I'm not very happy with the sounds I've been getting so far.
I stand corrected! I totally missed this and this means there should be some sample track hope if theres RAM for it. Let Elektron know if you want this. I still think its unlikely but here is to hoping!!
I'm guessing they will not do sample playback but had to leave the +drive in there because is basically a reuse of the DT form factor with new screen print on the face. Probably cheaper to use the same box as the DT then make one without the +drive in manufacturing.
I think the drive could be used for projects, and settings/sound, but if you can hook it up and look at the space via usb. I think that’s the plan. But who knows?
@@ubiquitousreverser Given their eperience with the Digitakt AND MD-UW it would be shortsighted to not at least leave the option of a sample track open. However, ofcourse the digitakt is the sampling brother (and OT sampling granddaddy) so i'm personally fine that things not get complicated even further.
I feel like I read all TH-cam comments all in the same voice and created an imaginary person in my head with a wildly inconsistent personality, but the same look and accent, and a passion for local IPA's
I liked this little series. Thanks Bo. Not for me, but enjoyed checking it out. If I got something in this line, probably the digitakt. From other reviews, it seems the externa sequencing plus samples would be the plus for me.
I'm a bit taken with the Syntakt, mostly. There are things I wish it did, mostly being able to save pattern chains, and maybe having a song track or two. I also already own the Model:Samples, and I kinda think the two working together somehow would make a great pair. I'm not entirely sure that it's worth a thousand dollars, but it's certainly a capable device. In my case, it would be an excellent addition to my synth world, but so would something like the MPC One.
Mine came today. I got it because I didn't have these kind of tones in my set up. I may keep it or I may sell it. Had an hour with it earlier and it seems OK.
I also really hope that Elektron makes some kind of polyphonic sampler. Or really, I just wished that the Digitakt had some of the Digitone's features. If there were voice stealing for polyphonic playback, if we could assign sounds to MIDI zones, maybe give us a little velocity modulation, I think we'd all have a lot of fun. The Digitakt can do a lot of really great synth stuff with samples. I'd just love to be able to take that to it's logical conclusion in an Elektron.
I keep getting the feeling that I want to trade in my digitakt model:cycles combo for a syntakt model:samples combo. I'm not a huge sample guy and as much as I love the digitakt, I find that menu diving for samples kind of breaks my rhythm in a way that the cycles doesn't. If only I had a million dollars!
Interesting that somebody mentioned Model: Cycles. I nearly pre-ordered the Syntakt but instead went down an Elektron rabbit hole and came out with a Model: Cycles to pair with my Analog Rytm MkII.
If you can only have one Elektron box, get the Syntakt. It sounds great, and it's their most "all-in-one" groovebox. But only if you like the Elektron workflow. It's not for everyone.
Whatever you do people gonna hate and say something negative. But you clearly work hard to provide us useful content and I for one appreciate that. Also very jealous of your hairline as I mentioned last time 🤣
I was never into sampling much so the Digitakt did not appeal nor did the Digitone. The Syntakt however seemed more flexible, better FX handling and you get to learn the Elektron sequencer, so it’s become my first Elektron box. The irony is that I’ve been looking at the Octatrack now.. 😂
I am experimenting with Syntakt and the the retrokits RK-002. Setup is pretty much the same as the Digitakt and it’s possible to wring out some huge polyphonic chords, albeit using one track per note. SY Swarm really opens up this way.
If the Model: Cycles wasn't my most recent gear purchase, I would love to pick this up! As it is, it doesn't offer enough new for me to upgrade. If there were sample tracks and a rechargable battery, I would strongly consider it. The Deluge has battery power along with synths and samples though, so it would be hard to choose between the Syntakt and Deluge for me.
@@alifeinyellow Grids are EVERYTHING. The more visual aspect of the Deluge is certainly a major plus (but then it has that tiny calculator-like LCD screen)
I have 2 Model:Cycles and a Digitone. Selling the DT and one MC to get the Syntakt. Its like they made it just for me. The only box I want more is the Rytm and honestly I think this might be all i need.
I think important information 'i got this synth for free from Elektron' should be right in the beginning of the video. Loopop is always very transparent in such matters, for an example.
Hey Bork. This is not my review. I disclosed this at the start of my review. This is a followup video. Feel free to check out my full review. This is a Q&A style video where I focus on answering viewer quetsions. I generally dont make disclosures on any such videos unless theres a sponsor for said video, which there isn’t.
Like I said: I did disclose. In this video I even have a long section discussing the very thing. and ”for free” isn’t even correct. Not technically and not philosophically. ”Didn’t pay” isn’t correct either. Any machine I receive is a cost: theres taxes and theres the fact that there is loads of work associated with a new device. Think about that for a minute. Its not like they randomly appear out of thin air: I work for it to happen, its a cost to me in terms of money & time and energy. So no, its not free. And yes, its good if people disclose of course. But this notion that its ”for free” is very simplified. Concrete example: If I say yes to test a device and they send a review sample: The sheer time it takes making the video far outweighs the cost of the device. By a long shot. So to me: a ”free” device is a major cost. This being said I don’t mind disclosing. And I agree we could all do better in being transparent. A reason why people arn’t bring transparent tho is because people are all weird about it. If you disclose: AHA, you shill! If you don’t disclose: no one cares. See the issue? This has been my life for 5+ years and since I have often been very clear about sponsorships and ”free gear” I know exactly what its like. So give it some thought.
Thank you, videos like this are very useful 👍 I had Digitone Keys and Analog Four Mk2 a couple of years ago but sold both, partly because of hardward and firmware issues and partly because I concluded that many voices is more important to me than advanced pattern related features. I wish they spent a little more time on quality control and a little less on branding their hipster image. Otherwise, very innovative and capable products!
I got a used Rytm mk1, used model cycles and used model samples for only slightly more than the Syntakt is going to cost me....sill going to get one though. Elektron are the masters of overlap ;)
Thanks Bo for the interesting video. I personally think this is the most interesting machine out of the three elektron boxes (Digitakt, Digitone, Syntakt). Almost reminds me of the old Korg Electribe boxes. The EM-1 was the last edition that came out and it was the most versatile one in the first generation. I kinda see the Syntakt the same way, but also I could be wrong.
I look at it this way of the Digitakt, Digitone, Syntakt as Sample, FM and analogue based rhythm devices and it depends on what you want/need. own two out of three, don't see the need personally for a third.
@@gregorynelson2327 Yeah that’s the most important part, it depends what you need them for. I like the versatility of the Syntakt, combined with my Live II it would make it a nice match. Personally I like the digitone more than the digitakt, but I have limited experiences with both machines.
What happened with that huge monster modular synth? I'd love to see some more videos and hear music made with that beast. Looked like you had like a hundred modules in that thing, I'm going to check it out on Modular Grid.
I'm curious if it's possible/practical to sketch out a full song with only this and get it into a DAW for finishing touches. I feel like that last step is something missing in most grooveboxes...
I’m sure others will add their opinion. For real hard techno: Analog Rytm Mk2 is good for this maschine+ Im sure someone can tell us if Mpc is ok for it too? Syntakt does this very well too Just a few thoughts
People online seem to be a bit underwhelmed with this release but personally it, as someone in the business says, ticks all the boxes. I already have an Octatrack for sample based stuff. I need some synths and interesting drums: Rytm is a bit too much, A4 is a bit overly complex for my needs too and only four voices, not a fan of fully-FM architecture of Digitone and it sounds a bit too clean for me so Syntakt seems to fit pretty damn well into my personal needs.
If I had the option to pair it with velocity sensitive drum pads (similar to Nord Drum), I’d be all over this. I know I can pair it with another drum pad and make it work, but I kind of want the midi work done for me just because
Great video! Definitely considering buying one but a bit set back because of price point... Bonus question - can you map the chord machine to a scale so it produces both major and minor chord but always in that scale?
Couldn't you use a MIDIhub to re-route 4 note polyphony from your keyboard to MIDI channels 1-4 as Monophonic Note On/Off messages? That lets you play Syntakt as a regular polysynth. I know it's an extra 200 UK pounds, but it's quite a versatile device for any studio. Very informative as always. Thank you Bo. (Birkenstock sandals???)
I swear there's a midi cable that lets you send polyphony out of a midi keyboard into separate midi channels. Someone else back me up on this I'll make another comment if I ever find it
Hej Bo! Tack för dina videos! Jag har en fråga om inte berör denna videon utan nämligen fx pedal som går att kontrollera via novation sl mk3. Jag känner till cc men det verkar vara få Pedaler som stöttar särskilt bra, har du någon annan approach eller tips på fx pedal som stöttar cc? Tack på förhand!
Want 10 Syntakt Tips/Techniques? Check my new vid: th-cam.com/video/j9iPkiOujac/w-d-xo.html
Digitakt VS Syntakt VS Analog Rytm is a video I am working on. Stay tuned for that!
Syntakt vs. Sonicware 8bit Warps, and XFM combined. (Actually 2x each)😉
Yes, brother!
Dude I dont have any of them!! Im sorry :-)
Can you add the model cycles in there too?
@@BoBeats I'm kidding. It's just, you could buy 2x XFM, and 2x 8bw's, for the same money as a single Syntakt. And they both do ALOT.
Thanks for the shout out, Bo. I like these kinds of videos where you continue the conversation with your viewers.
"Record them into a tree tracks" that 25th frame just made me laugh hard Bo!
im all about the environment
And sandals just made it even better LOL
▲ bo, i really appreciate you following up on this! i loved your initial review, and addressing these comments is super valuable! also, your editing is on point, and so are your sandals!
ps. syntakt is on its way to me 💚
This is a really great vid Bo, fully agree with so much of your insight here
I liked the video as soon as I got to the sandal comment lol. I'm right there with you about being hyped on whatever they come out with!
I just want to mention this and put this out there, I value your channel a lot Bo and I think it is extremely important to have such great diversity amongst our fabulous synth gear reviewers on YT … there are tips from your video that I could not find in other places, and that for me is invaluable in getting the feedback I need for a potential future purchase. Keep it up mate, I will have your back any day!
And as last note, don’t be so hard on yourself, you make the best Dad-synth-dance bangers of them all! BoomTschakk!
♥️ thank you Olli. Love the diverse cast of characters we have in our little pond of synths
@@BoBeats it is the best synt-pond ideed! :)
You and Loop bring a lot to the table, whilst Bo has cost me money, you did 1st. Both of you and many others have contributed to what I have amassed as my little humble set up. When I say cost, I mean you encouraged me to buy something i would never have, experimenting with it and keeping it or selling it, it didn't matter, what mattered was I got to experience something 1sthand because you guys showed me benefits of said gear.
Just keep doing what you're doing, you do it well and that's all that matters.
Thank you for answering questions about the Syntakt and getting some nuanced information out in the world! ^^
Been wanting to integrate a hardware drum machine into my DAW-dependent setup for a few years now, and after feeling that every drum machine on the market would be a compromise one way or another, it's super refreshing to have something like the Syntakt hit the market and just be exactly what I was looking for.
I can't speak for anyone else, but it literally ticks all my weirdly specific boxes as someone who "has been producing for quite some time" and know exactly what I'm looking for :D
Lmao, that stock footage cut scene with your ‘banger’ commentary has me dying. This is Bo in his element
I really like this format of video, Bo! The Syntakt makes me feel lucky to have waited so long to buy an Elektron device. Digital AND analog Elektron sounds & effects in one box - yes please!
The digitone and digitakt are better I want one of these syntakts tho
Analog Rytm? Digital +analog
@@bernardlindeman739 Fair point. I like the digital engines in the Syntakt much better, though.
@@bernardlindeman739 I have the rytm it’s a damn good drum machine /computer and you can use samples with the analog/digital machines
@@livinproof718 I have to disagree. They arent better imo. I think the Syntakt is better than the Digitone and the Digitakt is its own system so I dont think you could even remotely compare the two. However I think the Digitakt and the Syntakt together are an incredible combination.
Big respect Bo, you always engage yourself in the comments, and I couldn’t agree more about a combination of RYTM and Digitakt in one box. Me personally would prefer combination of the A4 and Digitakt, that includes a master and S/C compression topped of with the sweetest shimmer reverb.
Thank you - really clear and detailed video - love your approach and you always cheer me up!
Peacefulpigeons cheer me up too!
(is that a new pokemon?)
I have a few elektron boxes, notably the rytm, a4, and ot.
I preordered a syntakt here in the states as I’ve really wanted an all in one type box for traveling or time away from home. Sketch pad / launching point I can plug in and sample or recreate on the big boys when I get home.
Thanks again Bo. Great as always. I'm with you on being excited about this. (mine arrives today). For my live performance setup it will replace my Digitone (I was never that into the fm side but I loved having 4 voice synth in the small form factor). I can't wait to swap out 4 voices for 12! Also being able the process external instruments through the analog effects is huge for me as I run a Quadrantid Swarm and 1010 blackbox through. I don't see this in my studio as the Rytm handles drums and I have other synths (and plugins) for plenty of voices, but for my live performances this is an amazing upgrade. Thanks again!
Let me know how you get along with it! Always fun hearing other perspectives
@@BoBeats Will do! It should arrive any minute.
While I don't know if I'm going to buy the syntakt. But I love that they used the same black box for this that they used for the digitone and digitakt. It makes it much quicker to learn and they fit so nicely together.
This is a great format!
Keep this for big videos / products.
I might just do that. Its alot of working a review, then sound demos, then discussion videos. But I will try :-)
@@BoBeats But its really worth it in my opinion. You put all the work in the review and you are the best person to answer most questions anyway :)
Especialy for products like this, where a lot of people are interested in it anyway.
Thanks Bo!
thanks for the thoughtful, calm video.
Love this style of video! More please!
Im really looking into getting one, but what hold me back at first was the fact that you basicly dont get any polyphony outside of the special machine. Especially for MIDI sequencing, that was a huge downer... BUT then i read this on their website:
"If you want to invite your other instruments to Syn City, they’re more than welcome. A MIDI machine can be assigned to any of the 12 synth tracks, with four-note polyphony, LFOs and plenty more."
And suddenly, im completely hooked again :D
Maybe i should have watched your first impression video completely, so i missed the part where you talked about that... but no one else mentioned it for whatever reason...
I agree with you, it’s frustrating to not be able to play chords out of the box. Main reason why I won’t get one.
Very cool video, great companion to the review!
respect for this video, it was even funny at parts, best way to deal with all the negative comments. cheers!
Love how you're "serving yourself" as we say in Swedish. It's very likeable and you come across as so wholesome. Thanks for your hard work in front of the camera!
I try my best. I feel being open and transprent is the best way, even tho you do get shit for it.
I really enjoyed this video very much. Both from the perspective of a potential buyer and also as someone who absolutey loves well-made videos (informative and creative) just like this one 😍
Thanks Thomas!
The argument that this is a hodgepodge of other devices is weird. I don't have any of their boxes. But this one is the most attractive to me. Taking ideas and things from other devices, and putting them into a new one doesn't make it less good, it allows it to serve a different group of people
My Elektron trinity is OT, A4, & Syntakt. Couldn't be happier.
liking this format! As an Octatrack owner this feels like an ideal 2nd machine because OT = all sample no synth ~ ST = no sample all synth
@jnee
I'm thinking you're right. I own the Syntakt and yeah, if I could buy another machine it would be the octatrack! a total beast right? have fun!
This is what an Electribe 2 should have been. The whole Compact Black Series is basically a grown up Er-1, EA-1, and ES-1. It's brilliant, I want all three. I'm poor though.
Can't wait for your Electron Sandal review! :D
Great video bo. Like it a lot!!!😀👍👍💪
Good video Bo!
Nice video.
I own the octatrack digitakt and analog four.
I had the rytm but sold it a bit of regret and realy wanted to try the cycles.
This one gives me improved cycles and a few rytm channel..
Perfect.
If it has a 1tb storage and updates are to be expected, than there is something to be said about this. How vorsatile can this storage be used I wonder.
A cool hack for polyphony I use on my digitakt and that I guess should work with the syntakt is using a midi filter machine that can cycle thru channels per press.
Thanks for answering. Good job
Does anyone really fully understand a new Elektron box?
amazing format
Sorry the internet is so toxic Bo, seeing negative comments popping up on your videos is really sad, this just shouldn't be the place for it.. you seem like such a great guy.
Keep doing you. Hope you enjoy the Syntakt and it brings you a lot of joy and creative outlet. I'm holding out to see what the new Polyend (deluge-like) device is all about. Probably my most anticipated gear of the year. This looks really cool but I have a lot of synth drums sampled onto my digitakt already and while I won't have as much control over them, I guess.. I'm happy with what I've got. And that's totally ok 🤣 the Digitakt and digitone keys combo lives on!
Matt has been putting out a lot of fun videos, for sure.
The Syntakt is the Elektron box that interests me the most so far. I own a Cycles, it frustrates me highly.
I am impressed with the great bangers your create on this one. A cool voice to those and you will be on the charts 😃☀️🎶
aww thats mighty nice of you to say
Great video Bo. Excellent that you followed up on this.
Great questions! And thanks to the Discord community for addressing mine even though it didn't make the cut. I've not been a fan of the Elektron UI, I feel like they are the scientific calculator of gear, so I will move on. Cheers.
The Elektron interface is a genuinely fresh take on the old concept of a tracker. In some ways, it's a huge upgrade compared to its origins. Like, it has virtually unlimited modifier columns (er, p-locks) per step, and entering the data is easier and more intuitive than editing a spreadsheet.
Unfortunately, it's also kind of a downgrade in some ways, and other tracker-derived grooveboxes have arguably made more meaningful improvements. The Dirtywave M8, for example, has less intuitive data entry but has a fantastic song mode which functions kind of like a sequenced multi-track clip launcher. It works really well for composing songs from a bunch of reusable little pieces. Meanwhile, Elektron generally has no song mode at all, and certainly not a multi-dimensional song structure. The amount of friction in the Elektron workflow increases exponentially with the number of patterns. So it's not very compatible with traditional song composition, and instead, people mostly use Elektron gear to make short loops where they (un)mute tracks and turn knobs to make it less repetitive.
It's too bad the firmware isn't open-source... because all the downsides could be fixed by modifying the code. The hardware is great, and the sound engines are great, but it could really use a more robust song structure and some workflow improvements.
Can i record it live into Ableton live and hear all my effects tweaks?
6:10
I agree with this. If you already have some Elektron non-Model boxes, this is probably a bit redundant. That isn’t bad by any means. But this certainly would be a good first or second box for many people.
ELEKTRON ISN'T POKEMON is the t-shirt
This video looks/sounds great, Bo. I really like your new set.
Thanks for covering the Syntakt!👏
This is actually what I wanted as I want analogue drum machine and synth sounds. I have Elektron Model Samples and Arturia MicroFreak and together they seem to be able to do more that Syntakt alone but in my case I want one unit to work with. I decided to sell Model Samples and MicroFreak in favor of Syntakt. Am I crazy?
Obviously no samples to use any more but There’s enough crazy sounds that the syntakt can make that Samples wouldn’t always be necessary although there is the £65 PO sampler. Owe and the sonicware smpletrek when it eventually comes out is gunu be a game changer. I also can’t wait to get this syntakt beast next year when I get some money saved. See how this inflating economy goes innit.
I’ve had m cycles twice thought it sounded good but it always sounded like a m cycles it needed Adsr amps , filters etc .Now it’s got all that with analogue machines , just ordered it to go with digitakt & tone can’t wait.
I own a Circuit: Tracks and my old Korg Monotribe. Up to now, I couldn't get much out of them, other than some usual loops.
Are there any grooveboxes that actually complement the Circuit Tracks, rather then replace it?
Even a Modal Cycles would make more sense than Syntakt, because of the knob-per-function style.
Still looking out for my next purchase, as I'm not very happy with the sounds I've been getting so far.
Thank you Bo!
Re: potential sample storage - there is a 1GB +Drive - see page 28 of the manual
I stand corrected! I totally missed this and this means there should be some sample track hope if theres RAM for it. Let Elektron know if you want this. I still think its unlikely but here is to hoping!!
I'm guessing they will not do sample playback but had to leave the +drive in there because is basically a reuse of the DT form factor with new screen print on the face. Probably cheaper to use the same box as the DT then make one without the +drive in manufacturing.
I think the drive could be used for projects, and settings/sound, but if you can hook it up and look at the space via usb. I think that’s the plan. But who knows?
Didn't they add sampling to the rytm as upgrade they are extremely canny when it comes to upgrades so who knows
@@ubiquitousreverser
Given their eperience with the Digitakt AND MD-UW it would be shortsighted to not at least leave the option of a sample track open. However, ofcourse the digitakt is the sampling brother (and OT sampling granddaddy) so i'm personally fine that things not get complicated even further.
The syntakt has all the organs for a md3 right? Except the ram and rom machines and a couple tracks.
I feel like I read all TH-cam comments all in the same voice and created an imaginary person in my head with a wildly inconsistent personality, but the same look and accent, and a passion for local IPA's
Bo, these are excellent videos about the Syntakt. Thank you.
Most welcome! Hope it helps inform you
I liked this little series. Thanks Bo.
Not for me, but enjoyed checking it out. If I got something in this line, probably the digitakt. From other reviews, it seems the externa sequencing plus samples would be the plus for me.
Thanks for checking the series out
I'm a bit taken with the Syntakt, mostly. There are things I wish it did, mostly being able to save pattern chains, and maybe having a song track or two. I also already own the Model:Samples, and I kinda think the two working together somehow would make a great pair. I'm not entirely sure that it's worth a thousand dollars, but it's certainly a capable device. In my case, it would be an excellent addition to my synth world, but so would something like the MPC One.
i have AR , A4 and Cycles . Will the syntakt bring enough to the table ? I don't need sampling at this stage (mc707 and mpc one have that covered)
I think you should hold off as theres a fair bit of overlap
Mine came today. I got it because I didn't have these kind of tones in my set up. I may keep it or I may sell it. Had an hour with it earlier and it seems OK.
Make sure you press that FX button and get into the FX sequencer!
@@BoBeats yeah that's weirding me out
I also really hope that Elektron makes some kind of polyphonic sampler. Or really, I just wished that the Digitakt had some of the Digitone's features. If there were voice stealing for polyphonic playback, if we could assign sounds to MIDI zones, maybe give us a little velocity modulation, I think we'd all have a lot of fun. The Digitakt can do a lot of really great synth stuff with samples. I'd just love to be able to take that to it's logical conclusion in an Elektron.
I keep getting the feeling that I want to trade in my digitakt model:cycles combo for a syntakt model:samples combo. I'm not a huge sample guy and as much as I love the digitakt, I find that menu diving for samples kind of breaks my rhythm in a way that the cycles doesn't. If only I had a million dollars!
Interesting that somebody mentioned Model: Cycles. I nearly pre-ordered the Syntakt but instead went down an Elektron rabbit hole and came out with a Model: Cycles to pair with my Analog Rytm MkII.
If you can only have one Elektron box, get the Syntakt. It sounds great, and it's their most "all-in-one" groovebox.
But only if you like the Elektron workflow. It's not for everyone.
Whatever you do people gonna hate and say something negative. But you clearly work hard to provide us useful content and I for one appreciate that. Also very jealous of your hairline as I mentioned last time 🤣
At 1:35, how are you switching tracks to move to another sound?
Thats just jump cuts. Movie magic
Does it have trig preview, in chord mode?
I was never into sampling much so the Digitakt did not appeal nor did the Digitone. The Syntakt however seemed more flexible, better FX handling and you get to learn the Elektron sequencer, so it’s become my first Elektron box. The irony is that I’ve been looking at the Octatrack now.. 😂
Serious love for the tree track at 0:57.
I am experimenting with Syntakt and the the retrokits RK-002. Setup is pretty much the same as the Digitakt and it’s possible to wring out some huge polyphonic chords, albeit using one track per note. SY Swarm really opens up this way.
If the Model: Cycles wasn't my most recent gear purchase, I would love to pick this up! As it is, it doesn't offer enough new for me to upgrade. If there were sample tracks and a rechargable battery, I would strongly consider it. The Deluge has battery power along with synths and samples though, so it would be hard to choose between the Syntakt and Deluge for me.
I would end up with a Deluge because I’m a sucker for grids
@@alifeinyellow Grids are EVERYTHING. The more visual aspect of the Deluge is certainly a major plus (but then it has that tiny calculator-like LCD screen)
The Model Cycles is a great little box. I had one and sold it for a Digitone, but really miss it now it's gone.
I have 2 Model:Cycles and a Digitone. Selling the DT and one MC to get the Syntakt. Its like they made it just for me. The only box I want more is the Rytm and honestly I think this might be all i need.
Can the stereo filter have the left and right filter cutoff's be offset?
i dont think so
Great video Bo. Nice one.
What’s the best groove box for a semi beginner but that you’d want to keep for a long time?
I think important information 'i got this synth for free from Elektron' should be right in the beginning of the video.
Loopop is always very transparent in such matters, for an example.
Hey Bork. This is not my review. I disclosed this at the start of my review. This is a followup video. Feel free to check out my full review. This is a Q&A style video where I focus on answering viewer quetsions. I generally dont make disclosures on any such videos unless theres a sponsor for said video, which there isn’t.
I agree. I wish more channels would do that. They didn’t actually pay for the device.
Like I said: I did disclose. In this video I even have a long section discussing the very thing.
and ”for free” isn’t even correct. Not technically and not philosophically. ”Didn’t pay” isn’t correct either. Any machine I receive is a cost: theres taxes and theres the fact that there is loads of work associated with a new device. Think about that for a minute. Its not like they randomly appear out of thin air: I work for it to happen, its a cost to me in terms of money & time and energy. So no, its not free. And yes, its good if people disclose of course. But this notion that its ”for free” is very simplified.
Concrete example:
If I say yes to test a device and they send a review sample:
The sheer time it takes making the video far outweighs the cost of the device. By a long shot.
So to me: a ”free” device is a major cost.
This being said I don’t mind disclosing. And I agree we could all do better in being transparent. A reason why people arn’t bring transparent tho is because people are all weird about it.
If you disclose: AHA, you shill!
If you don’t disclose: no one cares.
See the issue? This has been my life for 5+ years and since I have often been very clear about sponsorships and ”free gear” I know exactly what its like. So give it some thought.
Thank you, videos like this are very useful 👍 I had Digitone Keys and Analog Four Mk2 a couple of years ago but sold both, partly because of hardward and firmware issues and partly because I concluded that many voices is more important to me than advanced pattern related features. I wish they spent a little more time on quality control and a little less on branding their hipster image. Otherwise, very innovative and capable products!
I got a used Rytm mk1, used model cycles and used model samples for only slightly more than the Syntakt is going to cost me....sill going to get one though. Elektron are the masters of overlap ;)
My first used car was slightly less than a Syntakt
Syntakt first or an akai force?
Thanks again bo! 💪
So should I get the Elektron Sndls or the Model:Sandals?
Model:Slippers
Cool video and I have nothing to adds since my hardware is a midikeyboard and just passed 600 VST...
Thanks Bo for the interesting video. I personally think this is the most interesting machine out of the three elektron boxes (Digitakt, Digitone, Syntakt). Almost reminds me of the old Korg Electribe boxes. The EM-1 was the last edition that came out and it was the most versatile one in the first generation. I kinda see the Syntakt the same way, but also I could be wrong.
I look at it this way of the Digitakt, Digitone, Syntakt as Sample, FM and analogue based rhythm devices and it depends on what you want/need. own two out of three, don't see the need personally for a third.
@@gregorynelson2327 Yeah that’s the most important part, it depends what you need them for. I like the versatility of the Syntakt, combined with my Live II it would make it a nice match. Personally I like the digitone more than the digitakt, but I have limited experiences with both machines.
I think it does have some hdd space because Elektron’s website will definitely sell some packs for this
What happened with that huge monster modular synth? I'd love to see some more videos and hear music made with that beast. Looked like you had like a hundred modules in that thing, I'm going to check it out on Modular Grid.
I'm curious if it's possible/practical to sketch out a full song with only this and get it into a DAW for finishing touches. I feel like that last step is something missing in most grooveboxes...
I uploaded few tracks on my channel with 100% syntakt, if you want you can check them out
Do you got tips for techno music like what is the best sampler for techno or the best groove box
I’m sure others will add their opinion. For real hard techno:
Analog Rytm Mk2 is good for this
maschine+
Im sure someone can tell us if Mpc is ok for it too?
Syntakt does this very well too
Just a few thoughts
Late 90s early 2000s Korg / Yamaha / Roland boxes. Check out " retro " stuff the vibe might hit you and might be surprised at function / workflow.
People online seem to be a bit underwhelmed with this release but personally it, as someone in the business says, ticks all the boxes. I already have an Octatrack for sample based stuff. I need some synths and interesting drums: Rytm is a bit too much, A4 is a bit overly complex for my needs too and only four voices, not a fan of fully-FM architecture of Digitone and it sounds a bit too clean for me so Syntakt seems to fit pretty damn well into my personal needs.
Agreed.
The price is what is turning people off. Its the same price as the Deluge and Roland MC-707. Granted they arent the same but they a better value
If I had the option to pair it with velocity sensitive drum pads (similar to Nord Drum), I’d be all over this. I know I can pair it with another drum pad and make it work, but I kind of want the midi work done for me just because
Just get Rytm
@@A-Grat-A nah. I’ll just end up with a Nord drum. Need something to play along with live acoustic drums and modular
So the digitakt is the sampler section and the syntakt is the synth section of a rytm mk2?
Nope
nice commentary dude, your comments definitely sound fair.
Great video! Definitely considering buying one but a bit set back because of price point...
Bonus question - can you map the chord machine to a scale so it produces both major and minor chord but always in that scale?
5:56 is this hinting at a colab? 👀👀👀
"Elektron is not Pokemon" Quote of the year :D
Is the syntakt closer to the model cycles or the analog 4?
Couldn't you use a MIDIhub to re-route 4 note polyphony from your keyboard to MIDI channels 1-4 as Monophonic Note On/Off messages? That lets you play Syntakt as a regular polysynth. I know it's an extra 200 UK pounds, but it's quite a versatile device for any studio. Very informative as always. Thank you Bo. (Birkenstock sandals???)
I swear there's a midi cable that lets you send polyphony out of a midi keyboard into separate midi channels. Someone else back me up on this I'll make another comment if I ever find it
Yes, the RetroKits one might work
I'll remove "being quoted by BoBeats in a video" from my bucket list. Glad we agree about usb-c being the way of the future! 💪
Elektron socks is more realistic. Updating the sandals would be very difficult due to the nature of shipping costs.
Hej Bo!
Tack för dina videos! Jag har en fråga om inte berör denna videon utan nämligen fx pedal som går att kontrollera via novation sl mk3. Jag känner till cc men det verkar vara få Pedaler som stöttar särskilt bra, har du någon annan approach eller tips på fx pedal som stöttar cc? Tack på förhand!
Hej! Har inte riktigt koll på detta. Tror Zoia och kanske Mod Duo X och Beebo stödjer det.
@@BoBeats tack så mycket!