Circuit Tracks Frustrates Me (Jam ft. Model D)

[@GrootsieTheDog]

To each their own but objectively speaking, a decent argument can be made for the circuit tracks being in some aspects much better than the Keystep pro for the purpose of using it as a brain for a minimalist hybrid dawless setup. Objective: 1. Minimal real estate 2. Better and more versatile motion sequencing a. Not choppy b. Per track motion control (key step has only one control track) c. 8 motion controls per track (Keystep = 5 for all tracks) 3, Better control knobs (they feel like dedicated synth knobs compared to the Keystep pro knobs) 4. Fast midi template switch out 5. Built in synths & efx 6. Drum machine 7. Audio in x 2 8. 64 projects x 64 ( Keystep = 16 x 1) 9. No screen = very minimal ergonomic interface 10. Portable 11. Great file architecture- Quickly save, store, retrieve on the fly. 12. Components - Excellent, simple, and easy interface for switching out packs, patches, samples. Subjective: 1. Escape the tyranny of the keyboard paradigm 2. Aesthetically well designed 3. Zero screen for a truly zero screen experience. 4. Designed for quickly executing ideas,

[@stevenhoule1866]

An easier way to make a pattern longer on a single pad is to go into pattern settings. you can make it 4 measures long by slowing down the pattern all with out extending the track or linking pads. you could also extend the pad and have 8 measures on a single pad using this features. the reason this works is because each pad as 6 micro steps. i utilize this feature with my Launchkey 37 that has an arpeggiator to make some complicated patterns on a single pad. try it out it works great as long as your pattern is not super fast or crazy.

[@anakamhi7097]

Yup! You know your tracks 😉 I love mine

[@hihan196]

@@anakamhi7097 really…need the pc unit ..?

[@Daphoid]

For the beginning section where you’re trying to extend the pattern length you can make that a lot simpler by setting up the first track the way you want it with the two measures then going over the pattern view and duplicating it four times and add the chain.

[@inwex8350]

Man, you've been fighting that machine since you've gotten it.

[@rockhead11]

I had a similar experience with the Roland MC101. Not only did the sounds seem dated but putting together a song was a pain. Especially when I got my MPC One which just flowed and took my creativity to a new level.

[@Madmohawkfilms]

I actually liked the 101’s sounds but ONLY ever used as a Sound Module. Spoiled by MPC/Force workflow

[@rockhead11]

@@Madmohawkfilms Yep, there were a few MC101 sounds that I did like. So now they’re samples on my MPC so I REALLY don’t need it now. Haha! 🥸

[@Madmohawkfilms]

@@rockhead11 yeah I AutoSampled my favorites too

[@RobbekenSynthMusic]

Many instruments offer such different experiences that even though on paper everything might look perfect, but once you actually get your hands on and learn how to play it things just don’t click. I’m going through this with pieces too even in the same brand, but I’ll say I feel incredibly lucky to be in a time when there are so many options!

[@couchcamperTM]

so true, I bought the original Circuit and it just didn't click. I bought the Microfreak which everybody loves and it didn't click. I can't blame the synths.

[@DominicJacksonFilm]

@@couchcamperTM no you were right mate the microfreak is awful its thing and weak, its the emperors new clothes everyone is mad

[@tolgatuvay8489]

At 4:30 You could just use duplicate button for creating more than one 32 step patterns and then chain them like you did. And at the 9:40 you have a problem with the shift latch function (sticky shift setting) yours was turned on ( when you press shift you dont have to hold it for the secondary functions) and it can be turned on or off in the setup menu. I think you just need to read the manual or firmware release notes more carefully 🤓👍🏻

[@spamshinobi]

You have shift in latch mode at the 10min mark, you can change that in the settings

[@DavidDeLuge]

I just got the Circuit Rhythm and really like the workflow.

[@ghanezu]

Mv1 is better!😁

[@DavidDeLuge]

@@ghanezu I have that too and a Deluge 😜. The MV-1 is excellent.

[@ghanezu]

@@DavidDeLuge I know .I posted a bag for mv1.😁😏

[@DavidDeLuge]

@@ghanezu Haha 👍🏼👍🏼

[@anakamhi7097]

Cant wait to get mine!!! I love my circuit and can’t wait to link them

[@ElmerSeasonOfficial]

From watching this channel for awhile, IIRC, you are using the two instruments that you find most frustrating. Yet, you still made some music. Good on you, sir.

[@saintmoz]

So what’s the plan for this piece of gear, will it be traded for something else? My suggestion is still something like the model:samples with the battery handle. Your issue with the tracks seems to be workflow, this would solve that problem.

[@Madmohawkfilms]

I had the Model:Samples, nifty piece of gear and I just bought a $7 cable and would plug into a Powerbank because they took WAY too long to bring the Battery Handle out……….. Do yourself a favor……. Save some more up, I pretty much sold my Model:samples after like a week of buying the Digitakt. Theres so much more in the Digitakt that doesnt exist in M:S plus16 tracks vs 6 it was just NO CONTEST. Want to go Mobile? No problem get the MyVolts cable for Digitakt for like $20 and a USB Powerbank and go mobile easily. I rarely do since the 1010Music is so small and light but you can do it easily. I even bought the MyVolts cables for my Akai Force and MPC One even tho I’ve 0 intention of lugging them around but its just MUCH more convenient to plug the MyVolts Cable into USB Powerpoints I have all over studio than to plug the ginormous Power Supply in

[@saintmoz]

@@Madmohawkfilms you are preaching to the converted as I own and love my digitakt(how good is the new firmware). Freebeat wants to focus on more budget gear hence the samples recommendation. Great tip on the myvolts cable, I’ll check it out.

[@Madmohawkfilms]

@@saintmoz the new firmware made a good piece of gear even better!!! Same with 2.10 update for MPC In that case the Model:Sample perfect often can be had for $200ish used. Also loving the PreenFM2

[@johntax9400]

@@Madmohawkfilms The preenfm2 is a bargain. It cost nothing as a simple DIY kit (and it’s amazingly simple) and you get amazing FM synth. I got a circuit OG for a year, and i never really had fun with it. The synth are cools, but they are hidden and without a computer, you have a maze of options you can’t figure out. Definitely not for me, but for some reason, i can’t resell it yet (i’d like to be able to use it to sequence the SP 404 when i’ll have the time). The question i have for @freebeat is why bother going digitakt or cycles when you have an mpc one at home? especially with that new update that makes it a daw, that you can use as a dawless brain? Since you can make it portable with a 9v portable battery, and enjoy midi over usb, you can have a powerfull yet portable setup.

[@Madmohawkfilms]

@@johntax9400 the Sequencer in the Digitakt has options the MPC’s don’t

[@aaronkush9511]

I’m sure you considered using one of the two midi tracks to trigger another drum machine or module although I realize this would defeat the nature of TRACKS portability and waste its own drum tracks. I’m still debating on purchasing one but not for your reasons but because of the 32 step format. I realize you can chain but why not have 64 steps to begin with. I’d like to go completely dawless so I’ve been doing my homework. I appreciate all your insights.

[@hanaloginstruments8930]

Could you made video Novation Tracks with Neutron?

[@olivierf.4931]

Really???? It's acceptable to not like a piece of gear???? Damn I didn't realize how free we actually are MAN!!!!!!

[@FuZZbaLLbee]

I am just impressed by how well you can play piano on those pads. The MC-101 could maybe be a better fit, but then there is only one row of pads

[@camblack524]

Appreciate you being so candid about this FB, all of your critiques are valid

[@Two-Eyed_Boy]

Thanks for sharing! Honestly I would consider listing the Circuit and buying a different price of gear used. The buy/try/sell is such a big part of this stuff.

[@peterjessop1878]

I feel your pain, but you are right that that doesn’t make the Novation bad gear just not for you. I have recently bought a Secondhand Roland MC101 and it’s extremely powerful for such a small box,but that means loads of menu diving. Once you get the short cuts though, it’s not a bad portable all in one music making device. It’s not OPZ small,but still portable enough to make music literally anywhere.

[@timbabamusic]

Hey man I totally feel your pain. I've got a similar setup. I was realy close to sell it and get a MPC one. But I've spent more time with it and got my ways and I'm super happy now. There is a shortcut for 32 pattern. Just set the first to double and duplicate it crossover wherever you need it. I totally had the same feeling to the synths! But meanwhile when I prepare something I connect it to components and built or rebuilt?! the synths I need, save the macros for what I need and when I perform I know I have the stuff I need and like. Neeeeed. I think the device is definatly for someone who's into producing while performing or even just performing, so it's Kind of very important to have your device prepared with just stuff you realy like. I'm still tempted to get a MPC, But I'm definatly more a performer then producer. Would still love to try it. Peace!

[@FreeBeat]

Yeah, I really gave it everything I had to try and love the tracks, but it just wasn't for me. The MPC is a whole different beast haha. Thanks for watching!

[@ForecastGrim]

I'd still consider the One...... I have the Live 2. I started with the circuit tracks. The circuit tracks and the MPC work VERY well with each other. With that combo you can have 3 pieces of hardware going into your MPC for allllll of your recording dreams. Imagine having atleast 100 types of effects for your Circuit tracks and two other synths or instruments can utilize for all of your recording pleasure. Or Live!!! When you get one because it is the best bang for your buck instrument currently made so it's a no brainer purchase come back here and give me some love.

[@marcin_bruczkowski]

THANK YOU - frustration is the name of the game in making music, and 9.99% of YT viewers will never understand it, watching the polished final result :)

[@FreeBeat]

Thanks so much for watching!

[@lucbelaid]

Thank you for posting Freebeat.

[@minimal.camera]

Appreciate the critical side of this video! I've been deep diving on videos about the Circuit Tracks, and it is refreshing to see both sides. I'm still undecided if it is a good fit for me or not. I do like the Novation workflow, generally speaking, but don't like all the limitations here.

[@GT-yw6dg]

Do you think the only reason that the Opz died was because of the bending, or was it general quality control issues?

[@AutisticCuriosity]

Really appreciate your honesty I have old circuit - don’t need to upgrade! Thanks

[@brokenscart7989]

Your melody jamming is great. I get 4 notes deep then it just sounds like I need to start over!

[@PaulSpades]

Wait a goddamn minute. The og Circuit only sent midi on the two synth channels and a drum channel(as far as I remember), but I always used scale mode on one of the synth channel. What is this nonsense two octave layout for the dedicated midi channels?

[@LiveReview]

Nice hints

[@bahutu802]

The 32 steps limitation is a major point why I'm still hesitating whether to get the Circuit or not. Then again, I guess the guys/gals at Novation did probably evaluate the different options and probably had a reason why they went for 16 steps in the Circuit OG and then didn't expand it to 64 but only 32 in the Tracks. (don't know what those considerations were exactly, but I guess there _were_ some, because just from the implementation side, it shouldn't be too complicated to do, and most other manufacturers did it, so...). My guess is that every increase in functionality comes at a cost of a slightly more complicated workflow (for 64 steps, they would have to have 4 pages and thus 4 buttons to switch between them, or one button clicked 4 times until you reach the 4th page / bank). The super intuitive workflow at the end is the biggest selling point of the Circuit, so I guess they didn't want to gamble with it... Well of course, 'workflow' is a two-sided coin. So a simple workflow means, it is easy to lay out something simple, but we have to find workarounds to lay out something a bit more complex. But on the other hand, on devices which are designed for complex things, in most cases it is also rather 'complicated' to lay out just a very simple idea. So it is always a trade-off and a matter of personal preference, which level of complexity one is looking for... I'd compare it to a four-color pen where you have four buttons at the tail to eject one out of four differently colored cartridges. There is a little steeper learning curve at the beginning because you can't just hit the tail and begin writing, but first think of which color to choose, adapt the slightly different ejection process and so on. With a regular pen you just start writing, but then again you can only write in one color.

[@AlexIsASeraphim]

I feel your pain FB. For me that piece of gear is the Arturia BeatStep Pro. The problems caused by 3.5 mm midi port and the fact that they only included a type b adapter and make no mention of type a or c adapters in the pdf manual ... don't start me. Plus although it can work as stand alone controller, having it connected it to the Control Centre app is basically manditory. For someone who grew up on the Roland 808 work flow, some of this modern gear is way too over complicated. Since when did every knob need 3 functions?

[@stevewright8201]

you could make a template, with all the patterns extended to two bars and keyboard set to chromatic, save to all empty songs, job done. you can also use a midi controller with cc numbers to shape the sounds in depth, without having to use a computer. I feel your pain though, some days it just isn't the one!

[@dergeneral7768]

the akku is great and i love the workflow ont he citcuit rhythm.. circuit tracks comes!

[@unclemick-synths]

My Circuit Mono Station goes under-used. I find the lack of live transposition to be very frustrating. I know it's not the only digital step sequencer with that failing but having to program the same sequence transposed for each chord is tedious and unnecessary. The result is my first reaction is to grab my SQ-1 and Neutron instead. I asked Novation about adding the feature but on a cancelled product I don't expect it to be implemented.

[@koroksondarocks4348]

I believe you have to change the root note on the scale page to get live transposition on the Mono Station.

[@unclemick-synths]

@@koroksondarocks4348 thanks - it would appear so. I never noticed that the manual says you can do that while a sequence is actually playing. I'll have to give that a try! Thanks again!

[@edtuckerartist]

Having fun routing my PO 35 into my circuit tracks, syncing it then sampling it and resampling the pattern I used it in - Crazy stuff! PS you would not like to hear the resulting cacophony I then created with reverb and upping the tempo 🤣🤣🤣

[@Roguetrainer]

Crikey, even your hair looks frustrated with the Circuit Tracks!

[@AppAxis]

If not the Novation twins, OP-Z, or MPC One, I don’t see many other OP-Z replacements out there. #MC101 #Dawless

[@Madmohawkfilms]

I sold my OP-Z and bought a Digitakt but its NO WHERE NEAR as portable as the OP-Z so I grabbed a 1010Music Blackbox Studio. Its almost like a tiny MPC and in some ways superior to MPC since it can Stream direct from the Card which the MPC currently can’t . I also use my MPC’s MultiSamples on the Blackbox. Sample length limited to 4 gig file size limit so HUGE samples possible if you need them.

[@AppAxis]

@@Madmohawkfilms I had a blackbox and miss it dearly now.

[@DominicJacksonFilm]

8:23 I think youre using it wrong its meant to be simple, just play the riff again and get it right hahah step editing in some menu is a ball ache isnt it much easier to just play it in again?

[@markwoodson2020]

Yeah I am loving my OG Circuit and I make 8 bar stuff easily every time. Also I have been trying tons of sound packs getting lots of different sounds. Also I paid 200$ for it and have ZERO hardware experience, so I have nothing to compare it to.

[@dinogoldie9716]

If you want budget gear with longer patterns and more of them, try Sonicware's $200 Liven 8bit Warps (128 patterns of up to 128 steps/8 bars + 4 track live looper). Or there's Sonicware's $200 Liven XFM (64 patterns of up to 64 steps/4 bars). If that's still not enough, get a hardware sequencer such as Korg's SQ64 ($300, I think) and run your favourite grooveboxes as sound modules through that. If that's still not enough, buy one of Tascam's digital multitrack recorders. I've heard good things about Roland's MV1 Verselab and the MPC One but they're twice the price of the Circuit Tracks. I suspect you'd be happier with a computer DAW and software synths though.

[@FreeBeat]

I've actually had an MPC One for about 5 months now and I absolutely love it. I've got tons of videos covering it here on the channel, as well as why I don't enjoy working with a computer for music haha. Thanks for watching!

[@danm9561]

Love your videos. But this one was painful. I think almost every issue you encountered had a simple solution. The only one that doesn’t (as far as I know) is the count-in/arm before recording. Which you solved anyway. Love to watch your content; this one was just a little too negative haha

[@dinogoldie9716]

You keep complaining that the Circuit Tracks's patterns are too short and there's not enough of them...but then all the songs you want to make can be played with two fingers and are only really about two bars long. What's that idiom about blaming tools huh?

[@FreeBeat]

I'm assuming you mean all of the tracks I've made with the circuit so far?

[@spaceman103]

@@FreeBeat 😂 A classic chicken and egg situation. I’ll bet Novation will update it according to your wishes, after seeing this rant….. 😉 Maybe they fix the midi latency issues when hooking it up to external gear too.😊

[@wiggesobk]

Still a great jam!

[@ForecastGrim]

I was hating on you just reading the Title. Buuuut you literally pointed out everything I hate about mine. I'm hoping some can be fixed with an update. Threre are too many positives for the money to steer anyone away from it. I'd probably recommend it over anything else at that price range. It has features only seen on hardware atleast twice the price.

[@FreeBeat]

Yeah haha, it's a great piece of gear, just wasn't for me. Thanks for watching!

[@night_speed]

Thanks now I'm convinced i should stick with my OG Circuit. Although the Circuit Rhythm seems like a closer successor to the OG. If they come out with an AFX Circuit then i might be forced to upgrade.

[@RosssRoyce]

I bet mc 101 would be even more frustrating concerning “chaining patterns”

[@mod3l]

The exact same sequencer gripe goes exactly the same for the Novation SL mk3. The 16 steps per clip and the fact that you can only chain adjacent clips is a joke of a feature.

[@kabood777]

brother, couldn't you change it with something you like? music-making should be fun and I can see that this one is not fun for you at all?

[@Imetalman2000]

Come on Free beat, that track was pretty dope. The way you feel about the circuit is the same way I feel about the OP-Z. I keep my OP-Z because aside from the frustrating work flow, it does make dope Tracks. I have a decent collection of gear and grove boxes and the perfect piece of gear doesn’t exist.

[@InkyDaCaT]

Watching this is sad.....its like they took all the reasons why its great and ignored them? Non of these issues are in og circuit?

[@jevogroni4829]

Why not bash it

[@Hoodyhoo504]

As much trouble as you're having with this thing, maybe it's time to get rid of it. Making music should be fun. You already have the MPC One, and it can do everything this does faster, more efficiently and with more precision and options.

[@PeteOnTheBeat]

I loved the beat tho

[@ck-ck]

The more expensive and luxurious the equipment , the more irritating it’s shortcomings are, i guess. Basic is mostly best, in my experience ..

[@citizenoftheverse4653]

Considering your habilities I think the circuit capacities logicaly cannot fulfill yours needs, you should maybe head towards Akai products

[@dimodicataylor7757]

Just use the duplicate button

[@JorgBarrett]

Sell that shit. Lol make a contest a give it away. I gave the tracks to my cousin as a gift and he didn’t even like the “plastic machine” anyhow he graduated from Harvard and found it really difficult wow, 400$ gift wasted

[@SimpleTrax]

I don't understand. I always thought circuits were supposed to be good for live jamming, improvising on the go without any preparations. But this video shows the opposite. Terrible UX.

[@JH-lo9ut]

They are. But this guy is not really jamming, he's trying to record a melody that stretches over several bars. All the settings he's trying to do, can be done with the sequencer running. Instead, he stops the thing while going through all pattern slots and changing the pattern length individually instead of using copy-paste. 16 step patterns is the default setting. It would be crazy if it wasn't. If you want 32 steps, you hit the "17-32" button for that track and it will extend it to 32 steps. Now when you change pattern length it will only affect the selected track, and the selected slot, not all tracks like some grooveboxes do, and this is by design. The idea is to start with a super simple pattern and add complexity piece by piece without ever having to stop the sequencer. Since you extend patterns individually, you never have to "fill in" a bunch of empty patterns just because you decide you want a longer pattern running alongside it. There is no way of starting the sequencer by hitting a note to record. I can agree this is somewhat annoying if you want to record a long pattern and have to count in for 16 or 32 bars. But, you can use the ”scenes” function to create a four bar (or any length) count-in if you want.