UPDATE: After this video was released, Novation released a firmware update that triples the total sample storage to over 3 minutes! However, you still can't play melodies with samples, unless you get my template here :) www.patreon.com/posts/47328078
More like what, 15-20 official videos? That was a lot from them in my feed.... I also jumped directly to loopop's video, haven't watched Novation's promo videos.
Novation is doing the good job, also Arturia with the continue updates to the Microfreak. So I should get a Circuit to pilot my MF and get new features for a long time :)
Hmm it's more of an update than an upgrade to the original Circuit. The 2 main limitations I have with the original Circuit still remain: 1) Can't do sound design on it without a screen 2) Stereo out only. Considering the price, that's perfectly fine... but I have no intention of selling my old Circuit to get the new one.
@@geluix69 Can I ask why? There's still a battery inside, what's so specific about a USB C cable into a power brick vs a barrel plug into a wall wart cable?
One thing missing on the Microfreak was the Reverb and cool Delay FX's thought I'd have to buy a pedal or run through a DAW, but the Circuit Tracks makes it a joy.
Ok, I'm sold. The rechargeable battery, 4 independent drum tracks, can store multiple packs on SD card and recall them, USB power, sleek design and form factor, black color scheme, external input to run stereo signal chain thru effects... yup, definitely getting that.
Looks really nice, I'm glad to see them building on an established system that really works well. The Circuit was already a capable MIDI controller and I'm glad they're leaning into it I'm gonna be missing the speaker though
Surely the stereo out only, is still a huge limitation. I just transferred 6 tracks (on my old Circuit) to Logic Pro - took a lot of fiddling. When the MC-707 and MC-101 let you export to separate tracks (4 and 8 respectively) I think Novation have missed a trick here. If you are serious enough to buy this new Circuit, over the old one secondhand, you are serious enough to want to get your sounds into a DAW eventually. All that work, tweaking, panning, adding FX to each track, sample flipping building up a really complex piece of sound/music and you can't keep it separate for extra mixing and mastering in a DAW..........when you can on MC101, Akai Force, MC707 - even the old Electribe allowed you to export stems/parts to Ableton - and that is as old as the original Circuit.
Fully agree with you! Should be able to interface with the DAW as separate tracks.. Especially with a name like "Circuit Tracks", and since you can run and mix external sound with it... only makes since to be able to send separate audio tracks to a DAW for recording. Novation was good about their firmware updates... maybe they'll sort that out when they release their firmware updates for the Circuit Tracks.
@@justFUNdimples maybe, I hope so (although what a tease that would be) and if they did do it - I'd for one jump straight in, and keep my current Circuit 1 as a spare or simple drum machine - Circuit 2 has actually rekindled some love for my old version, which is not that far behind as it stands now - in fact it's on my desktop right now building a new pack for it........
@@BsYtHandle no I don’t sadly. Gabe Miller does a good comparison between the two (old circuit and 101) that might be helpful. I nearly bought the 707. But now resigned myself to learning Logic Pro properly and finding that more rewarding.
I don't understand how these machines are still so artificially limited hardware has advanced massively since the original circuit and they still don't have more than a minute of sample memory.
@@kiko1935 My MODX (Plastic version of Montage w Montage Engine) has only 1.5gb and it's already full, I have the Bosendorfer and Chick Corea Library. Hoping that Yamaha could just allow external SD drives.
i understand it when theres an sd slot. for the most part I think most people would prefer to use sd instead of onboard flash memory. As for a reason, cost obviously. But there are a few I didn't consider initially. Yeah larger memory modules cost more money, but making a board that can accommodate them is a engineering and hardware cost as well. I still think its inexcusable to be putting out a device like this in this day and age and not having more than 20gb of storage, especially when these devices are so expensive and so premium.
What changed your mind? All I'm seeing is an OG Circuit with 2 MIDI tracks and longer patterns. Same effects, same synths, same 4 drum tracks, same nearly everything
Expanded MIDI capabilities without sacrificing my drum/sample tracks, divided drum/sample tracks, external audio in, probability, more room for patches, scenes instead of having to use separate sessions unless I want a different patch, SD card, rechargable battery (I'd actually take my Circuit places if I didn't have to worry about batteries, well and pandemics but that's hardly Novation's fault that I know of). All of that's enough for me to prefer the new one between the two, and the things that remain the same aren't really negatives for me since I love my Circuit and am already familiar with it.
Novation engineers: We should update our circuit; it is a pretty nice device after all Novation boss: Totally! make it slick; but don't overdo... Remember that people freak out if there is a LCD that does not look like a calculator, have more than 32 steps per sequence and more than 8 tracks and 1 minute of total audio for sample pack.
I was expecting 4 tracks of Internal synth deluge style synth edition, where knobs functions change per pad and everything else just like that but for me is just hardware update and some extramemory
I already have the circuit mono, but this will definitely be then next purchase. I love the workflow of the circuit. It's faster than the elektrons, and for jamming it's super forgiving. I'm glad they added the SD card. If the Circuit Rhythm is legit, that would also be a no brainer, would be a great addition.
Neat sounding track at the begging/end as always, LP! Use flow looks non-complicated to use. I like they managed intake most of the best handy features from Push to OP--Z. While more accessible pricewise, so why not have enlarged OP-Z around and dock it it as mini-Push standalone to drive no-obligation synth session in studio. Midi track and audio-in makes it possible to be used as a heart of the studio.... I've heard this, I think, just lately, so lil hypnotized :)
This isn't the huge update I was hoping for, but I'll probably still buy it as soon as the shops open again here in the UK. I am still holding out for a circuit pro that's more in the MC-707 bracket. Biggest con here is there still only being one pair of outputs, bit disappointed that it's still the Nova engine and a heavy reliance on components, but the additional MIDI sequencing and CC automation is worth buying it for. I could probably do a lot of what's available with the launchpad pro mk3 and the original circuit. £360 is on the upper limit of reasonable, the MC-101 seems like the competition and that has audio over USB, which is a huge advantage and a feature that appears to be a massive omission from this generation of circuit. If this had audio over USB it would be the game changer I was hoping for, it's kind of baffling that Novation haven't included it.
I agree - all that work building up a song on 8 tracks and then to get it into Live or Logic you have to play it in 8 times - once for each individual track - or pan L and R and do it 4 times - but what a faff.
@@renek.6434 I'm not convinced by that - £360 and constant claims 'it is not a toy' - even when the first Circuit was launched. The specs are so good across the board, the sequencer and now as a controller for midi external gear that the lack of separate channels as outputs is a big mistake. Roland can do it for the same price and similar form factor MC-101.....?
@@andyhcape Well for sure it's more than a toy but I meant it's more suitable for jamming around than producing professionally. I guess the best idea would be to include a usb sound card with separate channels as many more outputs probably wouldn't fit on the unit.
Your review was awesome as always but Tracks is really disappointing. I was hoping for chromatic sample play mode, more than 2 synth tracks, direct sampling and a new synth engine
I am a massive fan of Circuit. Released two albums based primarily on work with it. Have to agree. This is more of a hardware revision and I was hoping for more. Maybe we'll get it with the one they are releasing over the summer.
@@strangersun7721 I love circuit too, it has a nice, fast workflow with no menu diving and it's very fun and inspiring. The thing is I didn't want labeled knobs or flat buttons, just something like the mc101 but with circuit's sequencer.
Seems like a lot of the updates are focused on jamming workflow which is great. It is a shame they didn't update the synth engine but it's still a lot of fun for your money. Components was always the weak link. If that update is solid then that alone is cause for celebration.
Love my original circuit, and I like this one too. Lots of good new stuff. I won't miss the speaker. It wasn't useful. There are a lot of nice changes that take into account some good features on the launchpad mk3 and sl mk3. The per-step setting of macro knob values is one of the main things I was missing on the original Circuit. Sequencing more gear with midi tracks is excellent as I love the Circuit sequencer and have been sequencing external great with a launchpad pro. Won't need it for live stuff anymore.
I love the integrated battery and revised editor and sleek design. The only thing preventing me from ordering it is the same dated nova engine.. this would be a relatively expensive sketch pad as I have too many other devices that just simply sound better. I don't have any as portable or with this great workflow though.. I just wish they updated the sound engine and I could bounce tracks I made on the go into ableton as audio. Currently, I'd only record then as midi and then replace sounds.
Oohh real time link with components? The software looks way nicer too, I hope Novation will do an iPad Components app for full portable control of the Circuit
That's all that mattered to me to ! I have a bunch of samplers to connect that thing too so I use it almost exclusively as a synth. My OG stays for now
Nice review🙏the sample knobs is a big con. You speak out of my heart when you mentioned a knob for sample start. Would be such a game changer. I guess something must be left for the rythm 😂
Another excellent review. I'm sure the good folks at Novation are noticing your hints for improvements, and are probably already planning some user stories for their sprint backlog ;) ... I will probably stick with the old Circuit for now, but hopefully a couple of these improvements that are possible on the older Circuit will get ported over.
Awesome video! As usual your videos enlighten me to features on my music boxes I didn't understand inspire me to go make music. Clear and concise explanation and some talented hands. Thanks for your quick reply about Ableton drum rack translation for midi patterns. I'll use that for the circuit and maschinedrum. Cheers!!! Subscribing to your patreon later!
It's funny how I just completely blow off the "official" videos and search here instead. And this box is exactly (pretty much) what I've been looking for. I'll get a couple NTS-1's to round it out. It's nice to see something that was designed right from the start as an "instrument". That is, it was designed to be played and not searched through. When you want to play the guitar, you just pick it up and play it. Why not the same for groove boxes?
@loopop Myselfsays, yeah that would be fun for DAWless jamming, cool little box for experimenting and ideas, I like Novation a lot, I had a x-station which was basically a midi keyboard, synth and audio interface in one, that thing lasted for years in and out of planes and off and on stages then back into the studio, loved it. Great onboard sounds/engine...kinda late 90's/2000's sounds, I am gonna watch this a few times, I enjoy your channel a lot, your great at what you do, thanks for all the hard work and great videos. I'll flick some patron cash money love. I will watch this a few times and see what creative processes come from the tech capabilities...It must run on batteries, be cool down at the beach or wondering around...thanks again! Jeramiah
the Sample Melody thing is great btw (got it from your Patreon)... the thing you didn't mention though (in detail) is you can't record into any pattern this way. You can only play the sample chromatically live, or set the steps. Would be dope to be able to record it into a pattern in real-time! But of course, that's a strength of Circuit Rhythm.
Thanks! Indeed you can't record them when playing live - like I mention in the video it's either play them live or copy-paste the notes (unfortunately!) Thanks for your support BTW!
So, just finished watching. I do like the new upgrade and think it's worthwhile, the only thing i'm bumped about is that they didn't update the Synth engine which I never really liked.
A few things I'm curious about: 1. Do the two internal synth tracks have the capability of also sequencing externally (overdubbing like the original)? 2. Is the probability function able to be applied to individual notes on polyphonic steps? 3. Are you able to play external synths through the Circuit Tracks with a MIDI keyboard? On the original, if I were to plug a keyboard into the Circuit's MIDI in, and have a synth sequenced using the Circuit's MIDI out, the keyboard would play the internal synths but not the external ones.
@@loopop Thanks! Circuit Tracks looks awesome and I'm super excited to see what Novation do with its firmware updates going forward. And by overdubbing, I meant that the MIDI sequencer on a track for the internal synth and external gear assigned to the same MIDI channel are shared. Meaning, if you don't turn the mixer volume to 0 for that track, you'll hear both the internal synth on that track and the external one that's set to that MIDI channel. Maybe overdubbing isn't the best word for that.
@@loopop *(Update: This comment is irrelevant due to miscommunication. If you're reading this and don't continue further in this thread, know that Circuit CAN sequence 4 synths total, with two of the tracks being shared with the internal synths, like on the original)* Oh ok, nevermind then. That's kinda disappointing honestly. I would've loved to be able to sequence 4 external synths in total, even if the internal synths shared a sequence/channel with two of the external synths. At least it's still an improvement over the original, just not as much of an improvement as I hoped. Maybe a firmware update can make it so, hopefully. Thanks for replying.
I love the original but I've never enjoyed connecting a computer or ipad to it. Many times, I just want to slightly tweak a sound outside of the 8 macros and I can't. Also, for me, It some times takes 5 minutes to get the connection to chrome going but this may be my situation. Seems like a really small OLED would have been a fantastic addition for on the spot editing. Perhaps even like Korg VOLCA FM where its cryptic but allows you to get in change a setting if you really need to. Love the look!
Man oh man! I was waiting on someone on youtube to get their hands on this thing and of all people it's my Dood, Loopop! Sweet! Ok, enough chatter. Time to watch the video!
Very helpful video! Any scope to review the sequential pro 3 by any chance? Keen to see what you make of the sequencer and using it for chords/in creative ways.
Great video as always. I'd really love to see a review of the Tracks' Ableton device control capabilities (it seems no reviewer has covered this yet). Novation always goes deep with Ableton integration and I'm really curious to see what this thing can do (file browsing in particular, as the MK series does).
@@loopop I am not sure that it exists lol. That would explain why no reviewers mentioned it. I guess I assumed Novation would continue the level of control of the MK series and LaunchPad. If the Tracks does control Ableton well (or at all, I guess) I would be interested to see what it can do!
Thank you for the nice and comprehensive review Loopop. I want to ask you about the pitch adjustment per sample, because as I can see at 7: 50 you change the pitch of the sample sound. So, per sample you can adjust the pitch, am I right. So, let’s say that you add the same bass sound in eight different Circuit pads, and then you record a bass line in real time, and afterwards you adjust on each pad the pitch creating some sort of bass melody. Or alternative maybe the user can add 8 different notes with the same bass sound and to record them in real time. Definitely I will get the Circuit Tracks, and given the fact that it doesn’t have pitch quantization I’m trying try to discover some tricks in order to create melodies in the drum tracks, to have free space for the pads and melodic parts in the synth tracks. So, at 7: 50 you’re saying that ‘’you can’t create melodies without a template of course’’, so I guess you mean the tricks that I describe above or something else? Loopop, thank you very much anyway, because you offer so much valuable information to all of us.
Thanks Alex - yes, if you watch the video towards the end you'll see my template which contains pre-tuned steps across two and a half octaves for any drum sample. You can get that on my patreon or just create a template like that yourself
I was sort of hoping for a super circuit with a screen so I can sound design, sampling inputs and an updated sound engine. This seems more like a quality of life update rather than "worth the hype"
Incredibly detailed video, thanks for posting! Is the operation and workflow of Tracks largely the same as for the current release of Circuit do you know?
Thanks for the comprehensive review, as always! 👍👍 Quick question - is pattern chaining still implemented in the same way as OG Circuit, now that the Scenes are involved? The old format of going back and forth, chaining pattern 1 three times in a row followed by pattern 5 twice and pattern 8 once? That was very good, does pattern chaining still function in this way in the new unit? Can you chain the Scenes out of numerical order as well? 🤷♂️🤔
Thanks! You can't chain scenes out of order currently. Regarding the OG firmware update pattern chaining workflow, I have to admit I never explored it...
I think you are confused. The original Circuit allowed patterns of up to 32 bars with firmware 1.7. AFAICT, with the extra page on Circuit Tracks, this has been increased to a max of 64 bar patterns.
Thank you very much for the review. It's excellent. It's excellent. I'm gravitating between Circuit Tracks and Microfreak to play around with my Roland JV-1080. Circuit Tracks with their sequencing or Microfreak with poly aftertouch, apart from the sounds of the machines themselves. Difficult choice since the price is practically the same. Would you say that Microfreak is a better option?
Glad it was helpful! To your question, what's right for me will likely not be right for you - and the two are VERY different. go with what will inspire you to make music
Really Excellent Video Mr looplop, the new circuit is very interesting but (for more modulability ;) I have 2 questions: 1- what about using Circuit as midi controller with DAW or iOS App (Via Camera adapter dongle, to control iPad apps like Gadget (Korg) for exemple) ?? we Can or Not ? 2- Circuit Tracks export stems or not ? thank you again for this excellent content
As always, killer review. I never messed with circuit 1, but it's cool to see the workarounds they implemented to get around having no screen. Off topic, but have you considered making a video for bitwig similar to your ableton one??
Thanks! I have considered it, but honestly that type of video takes so long to make it doesn't make sense for me cause I still haven't "converted" to bitwig. Bitwig cool and all and does some things Live doesn't, but too many things I don't want to lose are keeping me with Ableton Live.
Regarding the critique I’m seeing from people that you can’t do sound design on the hardware itself, I actually like that you can’t. It kind of makes sense to do that technical stuff on the computer with the bigger screen as well as keep time spent with the Circuit dedicated completely to the creative process.
Analogue synths traditionally lack screens and needless visual feedback. Sound design is part of the creative process, too. Ultranova is a more potent VA synthesizer from Novation with a small, but practical, screen. It's only a step behind knobby analogue synths. Mininova is the miniaturized, slightly watered-down version with an even smaller screen. No one needs a 32" screen or whatever for sound design, man. A small screen like the Kross2's for sound editing right on the Circuit would not hurt anything.
Great video. I wonder if the two Midi channels only control external Hardware or can they control/sequence VST's in a DAW, since the send to separated Midi channels. Thanks 🙏
Oled display bellow the knobs and a small main one would be useful . That was the main reason (along with too many shift functions ) I sold my circuit og
UPDATE: After this video was released, Novation released a firmware update that triples the total sample storage to over 3 minutes! However, you still can't play melodies with samples, unless you get my template here :) www.patreon.com/posts/47328078
From now on I'll only ever refer to low and high pass filters as outside the club and car radio.
I never understood why people use such confusing terms when there are very clear alternatives. LFO is robot knob wiggler in case I didn't mention it
OK then - what about bandpass?? On the phone?
@Harry Imster ELO mode?
@@loopop Brilliant!
Attack = "Waaaah or booow"
Hmm, official Novation video... Nah, I’ll just go straight to Loopop.
True I did the same.
Same!
More like what, 15-20 official videos? That was a lot from them in my feed.... I also jumped directly to loopop's video, haven't watched Novation's promo videos.
Same thing.
@Gordon Rayan exactly. I’ve watched some of them several times both before and after buying stuff.
To answer the question: Yes, original Circuit got the same editor update on Components. Novation, keepin' its customers happy!
Novation is doing the good job, also Arturia with the continue updates to the Microfreak. So I should get a Circuit to pilot my MF and get new features for a long time :)
Novation have been excellent in support of the original Circuits. Big Kudos 2 them; other manufacturers should take note.
Hmm it's more of an update than an upgrade to the original Circuit. The 2 main limitations I have with the original Circuit still remain: 1) Can't do sound design on it without a screen 2) Stereo out only.
Considering the price, that's perfectly fine... but I have no intention of selling my old Circuit to get the new one.
Same here.
I second that.
Its a nice effort from novation .
The deal breaker was the USB power only , not a fan .
@@geluix69 Can I ask why? There's still a battery inside, what's so specific about a USB C cable into a power brick vs a barrel plug into a wall wart cable?
I feel this is what the Circuit should have been to begin with.
And there goes I who want circuit for 4 years and new model is coming out :)
The fact that the inputs pass through the FX section is huge.
I think I actually might be sold on this now...
Agree
One thing missing on the Microfreak was the Reverb and cool Delay FX's thought I'd have to buy a pedal or run through a DAW, but the Circuit Tracks makes it a joy.
Man! you're so good on doing this. The structure of the review is so logical and the voice is so soothing. I wish you the best!
Ok, I'm sold. The rechargeable battery, 4 independent drum tracks, can store multiple packs on SD card and recall them, USB power, sleek design and form factor, black color scheme, external input to run stereo signal chain thru effects... yup, definitely getting that.
How much ??
Looks really nice, I'm glad to see them building on an established system that really works well. The Circuit was already a capable MIDI controller and I'm glad they're leaning into it
I'm gonna be missing the speaker though
Surely the stereo out only, is still a huge limitation. I just transferred 6 tracks (on my old Circuit) to Logic Pro - took a lot of fiddling. When the MC-707 and MC-101 let you export to separate tracks (4 and 8 respectively) I think Novation have missed a trick here. If you are serious enough to buy this new Circuit, over the old one secondhand, you are serious enough to want to get your sounds into a DAW eventually. All that work, tweaking, panning, adding FX to each track, sample flipping building up a really complex piece of sound/music and you can't keep it separate for extra mixing and mastering in a DAW..........when you can on MC101, Akai Force, MC707 - even the old Electribe allowed you to export stems/parts to Ableton - and that is as old as the original Circuit.
Fully agree with you! Should be able to interface with the DAW as separate tracks.. Especially with a name like "Circuit Tracks", and since you can run and mix external sound with it... only makes since to be able to send separate audio tracks to a DAW for recording. Novation was good about their firmware updates... maybe they'll sort that out when they release their firmware updates for the Circuit Tracks.
@@justFUNdimples maybe, I hope so (although what a tease that would be) and if they did do it - I'd for one jump straight in, and keep my current Circuit 1 as a spare or simple drum machine - Circuit 2 has actually rekindled some love for my old version, which is not that far behind as it stands now - in fact it's on my desktop right now building a new pack for it........
do you have a 101 to compare it to? Wondering if it's worth swapping out my Circuit for one.
@@BsYtHandle no I don’t sadly. Gabe Miller does a good comparison between the two (old circuit and 101) that might be helpful. I nearly bought the 707. But now resigned myself to learning Logic Pro properly and finding that more rewarding.
@@andyhcape thanks for the heads up. Good to hear you're enjoying LP.
I love that Carl Sagan has come back and is now into electronic music.
Billions of synths to review
Amazing review, I just got a Circuit OG and was blown away and it seems like Tracks is a clear upgrade.
I don't understand how these machines are still so artificially limited hardware has advanced massively since the original circuit and they still don't have more than a minute of sample memory.
I don't get it either.
The Yamaha montage has I believe 2 GB of flash memory- which really doesn't sound that impressive considering it's $3000?
@@kiko1935 My MODX (Plastic version of Montage w Montage Engine) has only 1.5gb and it's already full, I have the Bosendorfer and Chick Corea Library. Hoping that Yamaha could just allow external SD drives.
i understand it when theres an sd slot. for the most part I think most people would prefer to use sd instead of onboard flash memory. As for a reason, cost obviously. But there are a few I didn't consider initially. Yeah larger memory modules cost more money, but making a board that can accommodate them is a engineering and hardware cost as well. I still think its inexcusable to be putting out a device like this in this day and age and not having more than 20gb of storage, especially when these devices are so expensive and so premium.
At 3 minutes: It's definitely better than my OG Circuit, but not enough for me to upgrade
At 4 minutes: Damn you Novation just take my money...
Right? But I gotta see the Rhythm version first
What changed your mind? All I'm seeing is an OG Circuit with 2 MIDI tracks and longer patterns. Same effects, same synths, same 4 drum tracks, same nearly everything
@@BenColemanUK and a battery you can't replace if it wears out
Expanded MIDI capabilities without sacrificing my drum/sample tracks, divided drum/sample tracks, external audio in, probability, more room for patches, scenes instead of having to use separate sessions unless I want a different patch, SD card, rechargable battery (I'd actually take my Circuit places if I didn't have to worry about batteries, well and pandemics but that's hardly Novation's fault that I know of). All of that's enough for me to prefer the new one between the two, and the things that remain the same aren't really negatives for me since I love my Circuit and am already familiar with it.
I honestly just want the upgrade so I know where all the 1.x features are. I swear I never use my Circuit anymore cause I can't remember how.
Wow, this and the Typhon would be a great mini setup!
If Loopop doesn't review it does it exist?
Jokes aside, love the product design for new Novation stuff, not that I minded the old stuff.
Novation engineers: We should update our circuit; it is a pretty nice device after all
Novation boss: Totally! make it slick; but don't overdo... Remember that people freak out if there is a LCD that does not look like a calculator, have more than 32 steps per sequence and more than 8 tracks and 1 minute of total audio for sample pack.
I was expecting 4 tracks of Internal synth deluge style synth edition, where knobs functions change per pad and everything else just like that but for me is just hardware update and some extramemory
Perfect timing Loopop, I couldn't breathe for lack of info!
Really cool update in every way especially those MIDI tracks. Arpeggiator would have been nice!
I already have the circuit mono, but this will definitely be then next purchase. I love the workflow of the circuit. It's faster than the elektrons, and for jamming it's super forgiving. I'm glad they added the SD card.
If the Circuit Rhythm is legit, that would also be a no brainer, would be a great addition.
Neat sounding track at the begging/end as always, LP! Use flow looks non-complicated to use. I like they managed intake most of the best handy features from Push to OP--Z. While more accessible pricewise, so why not have enlarged OP-Z around and dock it it as mini-Push standalone to drive no-obligation synth session in studio. Midi track and audio-in makes it possible to be used as a heart of the studio.... I've heard this, I think, just lately, so lil hypnotized :)
It’s my birthday today so I decided to get myself a little gift, so of course I bought one of these little wonders!
This isn't the huge update I was hoping for, but I'll probably still buy it as soon as the shops open again here in the UK. I am still holding out for a circuit pro that's more in the MC-707 bracket. Biggest con here is there still only being one pair of outputs, bit disappointed that it's still the Nova engine and a heavy reliance on components, but the additional MIDI sequencing and CC automation is worth buying it for. I could probably do a lot of what's available with the launchpad pro mk3 and the original circuit. £360 is on the upper limit of reasonable, the MC-101 seems like the competition and that has audio over USB, which is a huge advantage and a feature that appears to be a massive omission from this generation of circuit. If this had audio over USB it would be the game changer I was hoping for, it's kind of baffling that Novation haven't included it.
I agree - all that work building up a song on 8 tracks and then to get it into Live or Logic you have to play it in 8 times - once for each individual track - or pan L and R and do it 4 times - but what a faff.
@@andyhcape I think this device is more meant to be for fun tbh :)
@@renek.6434 I'm not convinced by that - £360 and constant claims 'it is not a toy' - even when the first Circuit was launched. The specs are so good across the board, the sequencer and now as a controller for midi external gear that the lack of separate channels as outputs is a big mistake. Roland can do it for the same price and similar form factor MC-101.....?
@@andyhcape Well for sure it's more than a toy but I meant it's more suitable for jamming around than producing professionally. I guess the best idea would be to include a usb sound card with separate channels as many more outputs probably wouldn't fit on the unit.
Your review was awesome as always but Tracks is really disappointing. I was hoping for chromatic sample play mode, more than 2 synth tracks, direct sampling and a new synth engine
I am a massive fan of Circuit. Released two albums based primarily on work with it. Have to agree. This is more of a hardware revision and I was hoping for more. Maybe we'll get it with the one they are releasing over the summer.
Direct sampling, yeah... why the hell are there two 1/4" inputs on this, if that feature is not included? Possible future firmware update?
@@strangersun7721 I love circuit too, it has a nice, fast workflow with no menu diving and it's very fun and inspiring. The thing is I didn't want labeled knobs or flat buttons, just something like the mc101 but with circuit's sequencer.
@@DopamineOverload my guess is tracks and rhythm share the same hardware but have different firmware. That helps keeping the manufacturing costs down.
@@DopamineOverload routing audio to fx
"From outside the club to in the car radio..."
I was going to mention that... love it!
Should be label icons, like turtle and rabbit for slow and fast as seen on some gear.
Hehe the last car radio I had that was that bad was my ‘69 Dodge Dart
New loopop video of new gear!
*watching my wallet*
*realizing brokeness*
...
*keep watching loopop videos anyway...*
You're not alone bro
Seems like a lot of the updates are focused on jamming workflow which is great. It is a shame they didn't update the synth engine but it's still a lot of fun for your money. Components was always the weak link. If that update is solid then that alone is cause for celebration.
oooof love it. pretty much inproved everything that weve all wanted
Love my original circuit, and I like this one too. Lots of good new stuff. I won't miss the speaker. It wasn't useful.
There are a lot of nice changes that take into account some good features on the launchpad mk3 and sl mk3. The per-step setting of macro knob values is one of the main things I was missing on the original Circuit. Sequencing more gear with midi tracks is excellent as I love the Circuit sequencer and have been sequencing external great with a launchpad pro. Won't need it for live stuff anymore.
I have no idea why you don't have a quarter million subs by now. Great video as usual.
I love the integrated battery and revised editor and sleek design. The only thing preventing me from ordering it is the same dated nova engine.. this would be a relatively expensive sketch pad as I have too many other devices that just simply sound better. I don't have any as portable or with this great workflow though.. I just wish they updated the sound engine and I could bounce tracks I made on the go into ableton as audio. Currently, I'd only record then as midi and then replace sounds.
Oohh real time link with components? The software looks way nicer too, I hope Novation will do an iPad Components app for full portable control of the Circuit
Agreed, we all have "portable displays" around in the form of smartphones or tablets.
Great review! And great product! So glad that Novation made a follow up 👍
this litterally fixed every problem i had with circuit, which like i was fine with but now i need the upgrade
kudos to your hard work in reviewing these new products.
Thanks Loopop, best Circuit Tracks video I’ve come across :)
kick and bass fighting over the same frequency! These types of metaphors help me understand stuff :) Thanks again!
best gear reviews on the internet hands down
1.25 minutes in, you saved me the time, same synth engine.
That's all that mattered to me to ! I have a bunch of samplers to connect that thing too so I use it almost exclusively as a synth. My OG stays for now
Thanks once again! I see the section on Components is very similar to how its used for Circuit Rhythm.
From outside the club to the old car radio :-D
Nice review🙏the sample knobs is a big con. You speak out of my heart when you mentioned a knob for sample start. Would be such a game changer. I guess something must be left for the rythm 😂
What format file you need stuff to be, I'm using audacity to chop samples for my samplepad4 needs mono
I'm 15 min in and I think with good knowledge of all the functions you can do anything,
Sample start and sample attack would be excellent. The sample engine is so basic, I'd rather just use a volca.
@@bikegarrett 16 bit Mono 48khz in wav or mp3
@@bikegarrett yes almost anything 😁but the sample features are really basic
Super helpful vid as always, Loopop! Just picked one up myself and am loving it!
You had me at "2 midi channels".
as always a brilliant review which makes all other reviews obsolete. Thank you.
LOOOOOVE your performance at the end, loopop!!! 🙏🏼
Thanks!
Another excellent review. I'm sure the good folks at Novation are noticing your hints for improvements, and are probably already planning some user stories for their sprint backlog ;) ... I will probably stick with the old Circuit for now, but hopefully a couple of these improvements that are possible on the older Circuit will get ported over.
Thanks and I hope so too!
Probably gonna go for the Roland Mc 101 for this.
why
@@martinkulik9466 much more potent portable groovebox, for anyone not minding the awful menu-diving
thanks for another great review! I do think this is a decent upgrade that's worthwhile
Just a great video, as always...thank you loopop 😊👌
I liked the built in speaker. It was great for just noodling about.
Unlike any other synths I've ever played the speaker sounded okay!
I got the Loopop in my feed before any other (including “official”).... 😆.
Awesome video! As usual your videos enlighten me to features on my music boxes I didn't understand inspire me to go make music. Clear and concise explanation and some talented hands. Thanks for your quick reply about Ableton drum rack translation for midi patterns. I'll use that for the circuit and maschinedrum. Cheers!!! Subscribing to your patreon later!
awesome - thanks!
It's funny how I just completely blow off the "official" videos and search here instead. And this box is exactly (pretty much) what I've been looking for. I'll get a couple NTS-1's to round it out. It's nice to see something that was designed right from the start as an "instrument". That is, it was designed to be played and not searched through. When you want to play the guitar, you just pick it up and play it. Why not the same for groove boxes?
Not sure if the demo song in this vid was a nod to Keep Hope Alive or not. I put nothing past you Loopop, you electric musical wizard.
@loopop Myselfsays, yeah that would be fun for DAWless jamming, cool little box for experimenting and ideas, I like Novation a lot, I had a x-station which was basically a midi keyboard, synth and audio interface in one, that thing lasted for years in and out of planes and off and on stages then back into the studio, loved it. Great onboard sounds/engine...kinda late 90's/2000's sounds, I am gonna watch this a few times, I enjoy your channel a lot, your great at what you do, thanks for all the hard work and great videos. I'll flick some patron cash money love. I will watch this a few times and see what creative processes come from the tech capabilities...It must run on batteries, be cool down at the beach or wondering around...thanks again! Jeramiah
I'm not even interested in samplers like these, but it's just fun to see how these things work.
And loopop is just relaxing to watch.
Love this little box 🎶🎧🎵👾🤖
Great review! Now the question is should I get a second hand Circuit or buy the circuit tracks? 😁
Thanks! Depends on the market price for old Circuits I think - it's interesting to see what it will "stabilize" at
Buy the new one and sell it to me as used ASAP!
😂
Good review. Reminds me my Mono Station has been neglected lately.
Mine is still in the box. Probably should sort that out.
i love how many of the sequencer controls are the same of that of the launchpad pro mk3. I'll keep that in mind when I need another sequencer.
Great video as always. Thank you.
the Sample Melody thing is great btw (got it from your Patreon)... the thing you didn't mention though (in detail) is you can't record into any pattern this way. You can only play the sample chromatically live, or set the steps. Would be dope to be able to record it into a pattern in real-time! But of course, that's a strength of Circuit Rhythm.
Thanks! Indeed you can't record them when playing live - like I mention in the video it's either play them live or copy-paste the notes (unfortunately!) Thanks for your support BTW!
@@loopop You deserve it my man!! And I am a broke dude haha. Thx so much.
So, just finished watching. I do like the new upgrade and think it's worthwhile, the only thing i'm bumped about is that they didn't update the Synth engine which I never really liked.
A few things I'm curious about:
1. Do the two internal synth tracks have the capability of also sequencing externally (overdubbing like the original)?
2. Is the probability function able to be applied to individual notes on polyphonic steps?
3. Are you able to play external synths through the Circuit Tracks with a MIDI keyboard? On the original, if I were to plug a keyboard into the Circuit's MIDI in, and have a synth sequenced using the Circuit's MIDI out, the keyboard would play the internal synths but not the external ones.
1. Yes the two internal tracks can sequence. Not sure what you mean by overdubbing?
2. No, probability is for the entire step
3. I didn't try
@@loopop Thanks! Circuit Tracks looks awesome and I'm super excited to see what Novation do with its firmware updates going forward.
And by overdubbing, I meant that the MIDI sequencer on a track for the internal synth and external gear assigned to the same MIDI channel are shared. Meaning, if you don't turn the mixer volume to 0 for that track, you'll hear both the internal synth on that track and the external one that's set to that MIDI channel. Maybe overdubbing isn't the best word for that.
@@mikeexits ok - you can’t - each of the four tracks needs to be sent on it’s own channel
@@loopop *(Update: This comment is irrelevant due to miscommunication. If you're reading this and don't continue further in this thread, know that Circuit CAN sequence 4 synths total, with two of the tracks being shared with the internal synths, like on the original)*
Oh ok, nevermind then. That's kinda disappointing honestly. I would've loved to be able to sequence 4 external synths in total, even if the internal synths shared a sequence/channel with two of the external synths. At least it's still an improvement over the original, just not as much of an improvement as I hoped. Maybe a firmware update can make it so, hopefully. Thanks for replying.
@@mikeexits I guess I misunderstood your question - yes you can sequence 4 external synths
thank you, in conclusion, i will keep my OPZ :D
The macro labels are like the traffic lights in NY city :)
...... no exploration by novation ... so I jump to Loopop
Great Devo Satisfaction groove.
I love the original but I've never enjoyed connecting a computer or ipad to it. Many times, I just want to slightly tweak a sound outside of the 8 macros and I can't. Also, for me, It some times takes 5 minutes to get the connection to chrome going but this may be my situation. Seems like a really small OLED would have been a fantastic addition for on the spot editing. Perhaps even like Korg VOLCA FM where its cryptic but allows you to get in change a setting if you really need to. Love the look!
Man oh man! I was waiting on someone on youtube to get their hands on this thing and of all people it's my Dood, Loopop! Sweet! Ok, enough chatter. Time to watch the video!
The 2 midi channel are what sales it for me, but I just got a keystep 37 so not sure it’s something I really need.
You ought to still have the opportunity to use the two synth tracks as midi outs.
Very helpful video! Any scope to review the sequential pro 3 by any chance? Keen to see what you make of the sequencer and using it for chords/in creative ways.
Thanks! Not likely unfortunately
Great video as always. I'd really love to see a review of the Tracks' Ableton device control capabilities (it seems no reviewer has covered this yet). Novation always goes deep with Ableton integration and I'm really curious to see what this thing can do (file browsing in particular, as the MK series does).
Thanks. Are you sure this integration exists?
@@loopop I am not sure that it exists lol. That would explain why no reviewers mentioned it. I guess I assumed Novation would continue the level of control of the MK series and LaunchPad. If the Tracks does control Ableton well (or at all, I guess) I would be interested to see what it can do!
Wow awesome lil all rounder😮❤
Thank you for the nice and comprehensive review Loopop. I want to ask you about the pitch adjustment per sample, because as I can see at 7: 50 you change the pitch of the sample sound.
So, per sample you can adjust the pitch, am I right. So, let’s say that you add the same bass sound in eight different Circuit pads, and then you record a bass line in real time, and afterwards you adjust on each pad the pitch creating some sort of bass melody. Or alternative maybe the user can add 8 different notes with the same bass sound and to record them in real time.
Definitely I will get the Circuit Tracks, and given the fact that it doesn’t have pitch quantization I’m trying try to discover some tricks in order to create melodies in the drum tracks, to have free space for the pads and melodic parts in the synth tracks.
So, at 7: 50 you’re saying that ‘’you can’t create melodies without a template of course’’, so I guess you mean the tricks that I describe above or something else?
Loopop, thank you very much anyway, because you offer so much valuable information to all of us.
Thanks Alex - yes, if you watch the video towards the end you'll see my template which contains pre-tuned steps across two and a half octaves for any drum sample. You can get that on my patreon or just create a template like that yourself
This is going to sell big time.
well, I got my circuit for 160€... for that money, the circuit is definitely the better choice. still, the rhythym probably will be interesting
Back attending loopop uni this morning again...lol...
I was sort of hoping for a super circuit with a screen so I can sound design, sampling inputs and an updated sound engine. This seems more like a quality of life update rather than "worth the hype"
Incredibly detailed video, thanks for posting!
Is the operation and workflow of Tracks largely the same as for the current release of Circuit do you know?
that scene function just sold me!
Great review as always.
Looks cool, but I'd miss the screen and encoders of my Digitakt 🤔
Great outro as usual
Yes! Looks like the Rythm is like a SP-404 added in (which I already have). Time to spend my hard earned stonks gains on this!
Rhythm looks way more interesting
@@slakk5093 I get you, I just have enough samplers already. I’m looking forward to hearing more about the Rhythm once someone gets their hands on one
Though they're obviously not quite the same I think I find myself leaning towards the Polyend Tracker for $200 more.
Thanks for the comprehensive review, as always! 👍👍 Quick question - is pattern chaining still implemented in the same way as OG Circuit, now that the Scenes are involved? The old format of going back and forth, chaining pattern 1 three times in a row followed by pattern 5 twice and pattern 8 once? That was very good, does pattern chaining still function in this way in the new unit? Can you chain the Scenes out of numerical order as well? 🤷♂️🤔
Thanks! You can't chain scenes out of order currently. Regarding the OG firmware update pattern chaining workflow, I have to admit I never explored it...
Pattern length should have been extended to 4 bars. 2 bars is still limiting.
I think you are confused. The original Circuit allowed patterns of up to 32 bars with firmware 1.7. AFAICT, with the extra page on Circuit Tracks, this has been increased to a max of 64 bar patterns.
@@marcomartinez711 you mean steps
Waited a long time for this ...
Thank you very much for the review. It's excellent. It's excellent. I'm gravitating between Circuit Tracks and Microfreak to play around with my Roland JV-1080. Circuit Tracks with their sequencing or Microfreak with poly aftertouch, apart from the sounds of the machines themselves. Difficult choice since the price is practically the same. Would you say that Microfreak is a better option?
Glad it was helpful! To your question, what's right for me will likely not be right for you - and the two are VERY different. go with what will inspire you to make music
Really Excellent Video Mr looplop,
the new circuit is very interesting but (for more modulability ;) I have 2 questions:
1- what about using Circuit as midi controller with DAW or iOS App (Via Camera adapter dongle, to control iPad apps like Gadget (Korg) for exemple) ?? we Can or Not ?
2- Circuit Tracks export stems or not ?
thank you again for this excellent content
Seeing the form factor, I immediately thought: Push Mini surely is possible.
It's an ok upgrade. Nothing groundbreaking though. Maybe if Novation didn't split tracks and rhythm into two different circuits
Novation did a “pro Korg move”.
@@Nik.leonard lol, true.
thanks, this was some helpful tips..
awesome review
As always, killer review. I never messed with circuit 1, but it's cool to see the workarounds they implemented to get around having no screen. Off topic, but have you considered making a video for bitwig similar to your ableton one??
Thanks! I have considered it, but honestly that type of video takes so long to make it doesn't make sense for me cause I still haven't "converted" to bitwig. Bitwig cool and all and does some things Live doesn't, but too many things I don't want to lose are keeping me with Ableton Live.
@@loopop For sure, that makes sense.
Regarding the critique I’m seeing from people that you can’t do sound design on the hardware itself, I actually like that you can’t. It kind of makes sense to do that technical stuff on the computer with the bigger screen as well as keep time spent with the Circuit dedicated completely to the creative process.
Analogue synths traditionally lack screens and needless visual feedback. Sound design is part of the creative process, too. Ultranova is a more potent VA synthesizer from Novation with a small, but practical, screen. It's only a step behind knobby analogue synths. Mininova is the miniaturized, slightly watered-down version with an even smaller screen. No one needs a 32" screen or whatever for sound design, man. A small screen like the Kross2's for sound editing right on the Circuit would not hurt anything.
Great video. I wonder if the two Midi channels only control external Hardware or can they control/sequence VST's in a DAW, since the send to separated Midi channels. Thanks 🙏
Looks amazing!
Oled display bellow the knobs and a small main one would be useful . That was the main reason (along with too many shift functions ) I sold my circuit og