My Thoughts On... Elektron Syntakt

[@JRosevelt]

Just ordered my Syntakt two days ago, this makes me even more hype to get my hands on it. Thanks for the input, subscribed.

[@SURCOlive]

Awesome! Thanks so much for watching and subscribing!

[@nestorbeguin5782]

9ln

[@nestorbeguin5782]

L'imprimante pim de oolponoll

[@BrockDavisson]

I really enjoyed this conversation! Helped me understand the syntakt a bit better and makes me want it more haha.

[@SURCOlive]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks!

[@marcelsmoorenburg]

Great and clear impression of this new Elektron box. Thanks, I enjoyed watching.

[@SURCOlive]

Glad you enjoyed it! Thank you so much for watching!

[@sinewaymusic]

This is the best review of the Syntakt by far. I especially appreciate you taking the time to explain who it's for and who it isn't for, the pros and cons, etc. I just bought one used for a price I couldn't say no to. Although I prefer the sound of the Digitone, sonically, I'm encouraged by the fact that you say it sounds a lot better than you had expected. And that analog effect block will surely come in handy for some sound explorations. Thanks!

[@charleszaman7666]

Best video on this so far, so so great. Thank you mate!

[@SURCOlive]

Wow, thanks! I really appreciate that! Thank you so much for watching!

[@yogesvaradas5480]

Thanks A LOT! Finally came across your take on Syntakt and it's the most relevant video on it for anyone looking to actually get one. In depth reviews are important but not as relevant as personal insight on practical application and done so with sincerity and objectivity. Again thanks a lot. Subscribed.

[@SURCOlive]

Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for watching, and subscribing!!

[@octocore]

I didn’t know about the randomize synth feature - thanks for sharing.

[@carlaagullosoler7372]

Very well done video, well structured and gets to the relevant points that are useful when wondering about getting a new gadget! thanks

[@SURCOlive]

Glad it was helpful! Thank you so much for watching!!

[@rgrant]

I am looking for a reason not to want this....sigh.

[@SURCOlive]

@@rgrant there is a lot to like. :). Thanks for watching!

[@alexalainterieur]

such a precise review , respect ! best video on the subject i have seen so far .kudos !

[@patrik3083]

I ordered my Syntakt and I'm so excited. It will be my centerpiece in my setup. Also excited to start my journey with Elektron. Thanks for a great video.

[@SURCOlive]

nice! welcome! let me know if I can help with anything. thanks for watching!

[@patrik3083]

@@SURCOlive Thanks. I must say that your videos and offline comments helped me a lot to come to the decision of going with Elektron as my centerpiece. I was very close to go with Deluge, and I even considered MPC (One or Live). But many reasons pushed me towards Elektron. I was then kind of deciding between Digitakt and Octatrack and I just needed to pull the trigger when Syntakt was announced. General supply issues on electronic hardware pushed me to order it immediately. ETA is now 2-3 weeks which I can live with but as demand ramps up I think lead times will just get worse.

[@SURCOlive]

@@patrik3083 I’m so happy I could help you make up your mind. You would have gotten a great piece of kit with either the Syntakt or the deluge. I have both and love them for different reasons. I never clicked with the MPC workflow or Maschine, so they left as quickly as they arrived. Elektron make sense to me and have gotten so quick to use. I get in a zone when I’m writing and time just drifts away. I hope you enjoy your Syntakt, and please let me know if there is anything I can do to help. Thanks again for watching!

[@lukeward4619]

Thank you for explaining so clearly what makes this box so great. I've been interested for a while but your explanation is making it a no-brainer.

[@SURCOlive]

Glad you got something from it. Thanks for watching!

[@otuon2441]

The randomisation is absolutely mental! The more I hear about this the more I need it in my setup. Great take that definitely went into questions I had that wasn't fully touched on. Thank you.

[@SURCOlive]

Thank you! And thanks for watching!!

[@Tapepusher]

Yeah randomization recently saved me from endless preset scrolling, it’s a lovely way to design sounds in the initial stages.

[@orionsage7314]

Well...I caved. I had just traded a Blackbox for a Digitakt when you put this video out. Working with the Digi over these last months has truly opened my eyes (or ears rather) to Elektron gear and the Overbridge feature. I've been making the best techno of my short production career since but more importantly having a super fun time doing it. A good deal on a mint used Syntakt presented itself on my birthday a few days ago and I jumped on it. Zero regrets and I appreciate the info you presented on this piece of kit and it certainly influenced my decision. Peace my techno brother!

[@SURCOlive]

Awesome! I’m really glad you are having fun with these machines. They are not for everyone but I really enjoy them too. Thanks so much for watching!!

[@supernatural802]

This was the video i was looking for on this kit. Very well stated, thanks for the run down!

[@SURCOlive]

Glad it was helpful! Thank you so much for watching!

[@Cesiumswimsuit]

Highly appreciate your approach, hard work and insight on this video! I pre ordered a Syntakt and it should be here tomorrow to dive into

[@SURCOlive]

Thank you! I hope you have a lot of fun getting to know yours!

[@ftlaud911]

Just wanted to say thank you. Have watched a ton of videos on the Syntakt and really enjoyed your videos. Got a great deal on a mint Syntakt and took the plunge. It will be my first Elektron box and I'm excited to learn. I look forward to mastering the sequencer. I did not want a sampler box. I want to create my own sounds. Having 12 tracks to work with either audio or midi for external hardware made this box a no brainer. Add in an analog fx if I heard you correctly is icing on the cake for bringing in other audio. Now the dreaded shipping wait time starts.

[@SURCOlive]

Glad you enjoyed the videos. I’m excited for you to get your Syntakt!! Thanks so much for watching!

[@mtd3v]

This is great. Your comments on "what it is/not" was a perfect for me. Thanks.

[@SURCOlive]

Awesome. Thank you!

[@lrkx_]

Really cool summary, thank you. Even with the hardware flaws, it’s still high on the GAS list. :)

[@SURCOlive]

Glad it was helpful! Yeah it's not perfect, but pretty damn good. Thanks so much for watching!

[@BenCoeMusic]

This is a great video about the syntakt and after watching most of those names you mentioned talk about it, you’ve offered one of the most convincing arguments for it to me. I haven’t read many comments online about it but some of the big KZbinrs call it stuff like “the best groovebox”, which it feels like isn’t even what it’s trying to be. That said as a 12 voice, flexible, accessible synthesizer, with a good built in sequencer, I could definitely see it being worth the money. Me, personally I wouldn’t call it an earth-shattering groove box, and it likely won’t suit my setup, but it’s definitely neat. Thanks for the honest first impressions.

[@SURCOlive]

Glad to help! Thanks so much for watching!

[@caleykelly]

There are some great tricks using velocity as a modulation source and programming different levels as trig locks.

[@kuanjian]

Really good preview! I learned what I wanted to know. Looking forward to more on this as you get to use it in your live setup.

[@SURCOlive]

Awesome! Thanks so much for watching!

[@BoBeats]

Great vid! 100% agree

[@SURCOlive]

Thanks Bo! And thank you so much for watching!

[@adlsc7]

Best review I’ve seen on such an amazing machine, would love to see an in depth review like this on your quadrantid machines

[@SURCOlive]

Glad you liked it! Thanks so much for watching!

[@jessejarrar]

Great video to the point. I’m excited. Mine shipped today!

[@SURCOlive]

Awesome! I hope you love it!

[@sanman757]

The most useful video I’ve seen on the Syntakt for someone trying to decide whether or not to get it. Thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts.

[@SURCOlive]

Glad it was helpful!

[@suhan8382]

Thanks!

[@SURCOlive]

Thanks for watching!

[@MatthewLowes]

This answered a bunch of questions I had, even after watching some of the other detailed reviews. Thanks! :)

[@SURCOlive]

Glad I could help! Thank you so much for watching!

[@Kung_Fu_Jesus]

Great review, I snaffled one yesterday. Can’t wait.

[@SURCOlive]

Right on! Thanks for watching!

[@agustinbernal2760]

Great and clear explain of what it is and what it is not! Thank you very much!!

[@Number01]

Great video! I'd love to see a tour video of your music studio space. It's looks like there's lots of great gear. It might be a cool way to have your audience ask questions about how to combine, compare, route etc different pieces of gear with Elektron hardware. Perhaps a poll of what kind of hardware gear would make great pairings with Electron boxes. I also think a standalone sequencer with a ton of I/o, midi tracks, and CV in/out for modular would be stellar box maybe paired with the Analoge Heat functionality.

[@SURCOlive]

Great ideas! Thank you!

[@thegoony]

Ordered mine couple days ago, hopefully being delivered tomorrow, cant wait, and I hate samples messing bout with samples is tedious, this box is ideal. My first Elektron box too, primarily as a drum machine/mono synth.

[@SURCOlive]

I hope you enjoy it as much as I am mine! Thanks so much for watching!

[@planetduh]

Thank you for this. Great summary. Subscribed.

[@NTT5]

Thank you, sir! Please continue making these amazing videos!

[@SURCOlive]

Thank you so much for watching!!!

[@he-man-music]

Another awesome video! Love your clear thought process and how you explain things. Quick question- Would Syntakt be a good companion to Analog RYTM? I have been torn in selecting 1 from the two and given the current discounts, I may purchase both. But off course would like to avoid having two instruments that do lot of similar things. Any thoughts sir?

[@SURCOlive]

Glad you are digging the videos. :) I use the Syntakt and the Rytm together a lot in my personal workflow. There s a fair amount of overlap in what they 'can' do, but not in how I personally use them. I actually rarely use the Syntakt for drums, but rather as a 12 voice mono synth. I prefer the Rytm for drums as I love to layer samples and the analog engines to create my own sounds, then resample them for use everywhere. Syntakt is also great for sequencing other gear via MIDI, and the Rytm is not great at that. Both have great sequencers and workflows, and both sound great. Thanks so much for watching!

[@he-man-music]

@@SURCOlive Appreciate your detailed response sir! Please keep these videos coming. Loving every bit of it.

[@andriyurenov7215]

Such a thoughtful and relevant review. Thank you.

[@SURCOlive]

Thank you and thanks so much for watching!

[@TheCheeriosMan]

Great video! Great perspective and appreciate really digging into who this is for. Excited to hear more of what people make with it so I can decide if I want to add it along side my only modular setup.

[@SURCOlive]

Glad you got something positive from it. Thanks so much for watching!

[@ZigbertD]

Super informative video, it's really good to hear more of an analysis of strengths, weaknesses, use cases, etc. There are plenty of video walkthroughs of features etc. already. Your comment about this machine being great for someone who prefers the immediacy of synth-based workflow to sorting through samples is the EXACT reason I'm so interested in this box. I'm a fan of Elektron, own Digitakt, Digitone, and A4, but what I'm missing is something like this with a lot of synthesis capability and parameters specifically geared for drums and percussive sounds. I like Digitakt a lot, but find it easier for me to use creatively for sampling melodic phrases, stabs, vocals, etc. It's fine for acoustic/vinyl drum samples too, but for me it's a bit limited without loading up a ton of samples and sound locking like crazy. And you can do FM and analog drum sounds on the Digitone and A4, but it's not necessarily intuitive to tweak for me. I'm not at the level of sound design skill where I can whip up really creative drum sounds using any parameters on any synth engine. It helps me to have dedicated drum focused synth parameters. Anyway, the more I see about this, the more I'm convincing myself I'm going to drop the cool grand it costs to get one (even though my rent is going up through the roof in June, ha!) Oh, yeah one question I had. With the chord synth engine, can you parameter lock the different chord types?

[@SURCOlive]

Awesome. Sounds like it will be just the ticket for you. Yes you can parameter lock the chords by step. Another fun thing is setting one of the LFOs to modulate the ‘inversions’ giving generative movement to a chord. Super fun! Thanks so much for watching!!

[@theuntouchables808]

thank you for giving an in-depth analysis on this machine . Much more informative then most prepubescent KZbinrs out there . at least now we get an idea of what it can and can't do.

[@SURCOlive]

Thank you. I try to give a unique perspective from a user. I watch all the others to learn what they have to say too. Thanks so much for watching!

[@Daphoid]

Elektron Toaster, love it. What a straight forward and blunt video (both positive and negative!) - Love it. I don't sample at all, I have a Maschine Mk III if I want to, but haven't much yet - but I love "sound", I like to make them, poke them, add drums too them. I'm sold (ordered one today). Thanks much, subscribed!

[@SURCOlive]

I’m glad you liked it. Thank you so much for watching!

[@calyptratus187]

very good explanation. I haven’t found anyone yet who explained it this well. You mentioned this suits someone who has a unique workflow and I may fall into this camp. I just want to make sure before I decide on this: Can I hook up my guitar into the audio in of the box and use the Syntakt’s built in effects and play along with the music I’ve made in the box? If so that’s great since I’m looking for an all in one box that can do drums, bass, synth sounds and my guitar. I’m after to have the most minimal gear required since I enjoy being mobile. It would be great if I can make a whole legit track with just this and my guitar. Not being able to play chords is ok because I have three synths that can cover that (Microfreak, Minifreak, and my Korg Volca). Can I use the Syntakt as a brain to sequence all three synths? So let’s say I have a sequence on my Microfreak for my A part then another sequence on my Minifreak for my B section and the C section on my Korg?

[@SURCOlive]

thanks! Yes, the Syntakt has external input that can be routed through the effects.

[@MsJoentje]

Thankyou SURCO, the best review on youtube!

[@SURCOlive]

Thank YOU for the kind words and thanks so much for watching!

[@JimAward]

Excellent review and crystal clear explanations. Thank you!

[@SURCOlive]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks for watching!

[@marcusfreeweb]

Superb review, shockingly on point throughout.

[@SURCOlive]

Thanks!!

[@Hugo.Hallman]

Imho, best Syntakt video yet. Thank you sir, for costing me a hefty bunch of dollars 😅

[@SURCOlive]

Wow, thank you so much for the compliment! As for the GAS enabling... sorry? I think? :) Thanks so much for watching!

[@kuanjian]

Thank you. Your video is insightful and well thought out. GAS is real and similar to other addictions and FOMO and part of procrastination. I suffer from it and maybe spend too much time looking at gear and watching videos. Time I could be working on music… As a hobbyist, I made some rules for myself. A max dollar amount investment ($5k) and a one in one out rule when buying. I find this helps a lot. Thanks!

[@SURCOlive]

Sounds very reasonable. Thanks for watching!

[@nastied]

Great summary !

[@SURCOlive]

Thank you, and thanks so much for watching!

[@subradial]

Appreciate your thoughts, another great video, thank you! Still can't decide if I really need this in my Elektron 'family' (OT, MD, DT, DN) but it is very tempting as it's still different from the other boxes...

[@SURCOlive]

Glad it was helpful! Mine is fully for my live performance rig. It replaced the DN there. Thank you so much for watching!

[@aikighost]

I got mine a few days back and already loving it, for my style 12 tracks are enough to fully sketch out a full track, when I sit it next to my MPC live I have all bases covered. Find it really easy to create nice interesting beats. Definitely a keeper IMHO.

[@SURCOlive]

Nice! Yeah paired with a sampler you have everything you would need. In my setup I have the 1010 Blackbox for longer time stretched samples, and the Digitakt for sequencing one Think eventually the Digitakt will be replaced by another Syntakt. Thanks for watching!

[@Reggi_Sample]

How does it compare to Drum Synth in the mpc? I’ve never actually tried it

[@aikighost]

@@Reggi_Sample it sounds different and to my ears more "high rez" also the step programming is easier on the SYNTAKT, but the MPC is still awesome in general, they make a good pair.

[@Hysteric_Subjects]

I may call myself an idiot a year from now; but I’ve jumped aboard and am awaiting mine. Had to cut off my right arm for it ( sold my Deluge ) but can always get another Deluge when I’m rich and famous. Adventure is what I’m after

[@SURCOlive]

You gotta go with what inspires you. We each go for our own workflow. I sold my OP1 after two weeks because the workflow was not for me. On the flip side Deluge is my #1 favorite portable device I’ve ever owned.

[@Hysteric_Subjects]

@@SURCOlive OK this thing has become my favorite. Hope you get a chance to check this out, maybe skip the first 28 seconds kzbin.info/www/bejne/h4ulm6ydZtF9fJo

[@oeoenl]

Hi, thanks for the video, a great in-depth information and explanation about the Syntakt! You mentioned that both Digitakt and Digitone have a master compressor now, which isn't the case: Only the Digitakt has a master compressor. (And I also hope it will come one day to the Syntakt :) )

[@SURCOlive]

100% correct. I misspoke. I meant Digitakt and Rytm. Nice catch. Thanks for watching!

[@alejandrogonzalez-dr6tm]

thanks for the tremendous video... your impressions are very accurate... it's the machine I need! 🤘🤘🤘

[@SURCOlive]

Glad you liked it! Thank you so much for watching!!

[@GalenaMeditationMusic]

hey your my music in description link is broken

[@SURCOlive]

Thanks for letting me know. I just fixed it! Let me know if that works now.

[@GalenaMeditationMusic]

i saw a minitaur in your opening roll... i am using that with digitakt with one of thse one the way.. this may kick the minitaur out!

[@SURCOlive]

Minitaur sounds great, but it is only one voice in the same amount of space in my case as the Syntakt with 12 voices. Both really great though. Thanks for watching!

[@domingoleija3436]

Cuckoo and Red Means are ridiculous talented so I just enjoy watching them perform those complex boxes

[@leemelkuhn4496]

I’m looking to switch out my circuit for the syntakt as I gel better with My Digitakt workflow, I assume they play well together. Just a quick note to say I’m using the Kenton USB hub mk3 with my LCXL to control the DT and it works excellently!

[@SURCOlive]

Yes, absolutely. The workflow is almost identical (for a synth). They are a match made in heaven! Thanks for watching!

[@andreash3906]

Did you end up getting the Syntakt? How are you liking it? I'm looking to replace my Circuit Rhythm (and OG Circuit which I rarely use) aswell by either a Syntakt or a Digitakt. I'll probably end up getting both but trying to figure out which one to start with. Syntakt looks like the most fun, and I could keep my Rhythm around for a but until I can afford a Digitakt. Ps. I also use a LCXL in my setup, fun as hell 😁

[@McEnroe911]

Right to the point with useful info. Thanks for the video.

[@SURCOlive]

Thanks for watching!

[@igorgodinho1279]

Great Review!!! Can I sequence polyphonic outboard gear?

[@gapster77]

You really know your subject matter, your not just talking about your box fresh acquisition like some flash boaster. I have this on it’s way in the mail, it arrives today. I’ve been a little itchy about it, I’m a novice, and I have a Model: Samples, of which I love the sequencer, and have always wanted to get the Model: Cycles …but I have taken, what looks like a big step up with the Syntakt instead. This is a considerable expense for me, and this video has settled my apprehension. …I’ve heard lots of speculation that it’s very likely Elektron will be adding the Compressor in a future firmware upgrade 🤞🏻 Great video (subscribed), keep up the good work, man 🤙🏻

[@SURCOlive]

I’m glad you got something positive from the video. Thanks for watching! I hope you love your new machine. It’s a lot of fun.

[@evenmind-music]

Great video, thanks!

[@SURCOlive]

Thank YOU for watching!!

[@citizenoftheverse4653]

Can't wait for mine to arrive...

[@lukeward4619]

Dude, the fact that you can run external synths or audio sources through this box's ANALOG effects IN STEREO makes it an absolute no-brainer.

[@lukeward4619]

I can clock sync this to my MPC and then sync the LFOs and envelopes to process effects coming out of the MPC or any other synth, through this, and capture that analog FX processed audio in the MPC. Been looking for an analog stereo filter pedal for a while. This has that as a mere add-on to its amazing feature list.

[@JoshuaNeedham]

It not being a sampler is why I wanted to pick one up. I want to make samples based on the noises I create on the Syntakt.

[@zipnone1996]

good chat, good info, thanks!

[@SURCOlive]

Thank you for watching!

[@AgentOrangeTheDJ]

Nice job on this vid, great info.

[@SURCOlive]

Thanks Ara. Glad you liked it. Thanks for watching!

[@AgentOrangeTheDJ]

@@SURCOlive deffo

[@wanderingjuniper]

Ready to get it just waiting to see if whatever polyend have is more tempting. But what options we have. Thanks for the great video, subbed

[@SURCOlive]

Totally agree! There is something out there for everyone. Thanks for watching!

[@organismx]

Thanks

[@TMOS111]

Such a great review, this gave me such a good understanding of what this box is and what it is not. Now I must just speak to Mr Budget to see if he says yes to me purchasing it. I think that is my only real disappointment, it's more expensive than the digitakt and digitone. I wonder if the price will drop a little over time?

[@SURCOlive]

Tell Mr Budget that it does 3x what the Digitone does for only 30% more. And… these boxes hold their value pretty well so it’s like a great sounding savings account. ;) thanks so much for watching!

[@TMOS111]

@@SURCOlive LOL... I'LL tell him that!😆

[@joshatlas]

Super grateful for your videos! Thank you!

[@SURCOlive]

So nice of you. I'm grateful you chose to spend some of your time watching them! Thank you!

[@jcemagine72]

Excellent video. Very well explained and helpful as I am seriously considering purchasing this device. I am a keyboard player and realize that this will not be a sound source for my keyboard performances, but I have a jupiter xm and a looper to take on those duties. I have a digitakt for drums but I do not enjoy searching heavily for samples, yet do enjoy a tasty sample in my productions and find sample searching needed. However I would prefer a drum synth and not have to focus on samples as my only or main option. Right now I believe the syntakt could be a great way to off load some of these drum duties and allow me more options in live performance. Also, the digitakt has a compressor and until one is added to syntakt it will need to be at the end of my audio chain. I could move between these two devices to create interesting transitions and remixes which I'm sure many people will do as well . The fact that you have emphasized sound quality and flexibility helps me as those are important issues for me for live performance and live streaming. This has been the most compelling video to move forward with Syntakt. I appreciate your perspective and opinion as you clearly are speaking from a professionalperformance and production perspective. I'm glad I discovered your channel. Thanks for taking the time to create this video. Peace and love.

[@SURCOlive]

It sounds like the Syntakt would work great. I feel exactly the same as you about the Digitakt and samples. I'm still using that as my drum machine, and the Syntakt will be a 12 voice synth in my setup. I may replace the Digitakt eventually with another Syntakt, but for now I enjoy the samples I have . :) I would much rather design drums than search for samples too! Thank you so much for taking the time to watch, and also for your comment! Cheers!

[@ewanmatheson4235]

The intro to this video sounds a lot like the intro and really matches the intensity of Darren Aronofsky's Pi. That's a compliment.

[@audioreakt]

thanks for the video, very nice. I am sold, I will get one when I have time to invest in a new machine 😅... Hope you will make a video about the sound engine 😊

[@SURCOlive]

Thanks Paul! working on a more in depth exploration with sound examples for Friday. thanks again for watching!

[@audioreakt]

@@SURCOlive cool thank you, I will check that later ! but from what I have so far it sounds really good and super punchy !

[@SURCOlive]

@@audioreakt I’m loving it so far!

[@rodrigolaporte274]

What a GREAT video! instant sub

[@SURCOlive]

Awesome, thank you!

[@whentheleavesarefalling]

One tip is to use Velocity Mod together with the Velocity Modifier Trigger. That way you can change up to 4 parameters of your choosing.

[@alexalainterieur]

i am a total newbie in music ( a part from loving and listening of courze ) i have watched about 50 hours of instruments videos regardindg dawless sound making . i came to the conclusion that the : 1/ easy learning and having fun with inexpensive gear could be : arturia minibrute impact + arturia microfreak or 2/ a more or more demanding setup , and costly , but limitless , could be : either : syntakt + analog rythm or syntakt + anallog octotrak not sure about this choice in number 2

[@technoiswatchingyou]

Thanks for your reviews from real musician's point of view 🤝

[@Nick-kb6jd]

I can’t believe it’s not a toaster. MAJOR FAIL Elektron! I’m gunna have to make music with it now. And eat cold squishy bread. looks like a cool machine. Should get mine today or tomo. Very excite! Lots more updates to come I’m sure. Did you ditch the Digitone for this one? Thanks for the vid

[@SURCOlive]

hahahahaha I was hoping someone would agree with me on that! You should really dig it. I was pleasantly surprised. Digitone is up for sale. ;) Thanks so much for watching!

[@Nick-kb6jd]

@@SURCOlive I think I’ll prob sell my digitakt, keep the Digitone. We’ll see.

[@SURCOlive]

It's cool that their products allow for a lot of customization based on individual workflow.

[@marcusfreeweb]

I wonder if keeping a Digitone for polyphonic synth duties (arps..), together with Digitakt AND Octatrack would be overkill, from you perspective, if the OT is supposed to be the central (mashup, looper, sample and FX mangler) hub of a live setup, along with an iPad and a RME Fireface for extras. It’s all eating tracks on the OT fast, from my experience. I have already invested considerable time curating and sorting samples from free and paid libraries and sample cloud services.

[@marcusfreeweb]

@@Nick-kb6jd Depending if you also like to use some drum samples in your mix. The Digitakt imo has a very good, sound for modern styles, very present, very direct, punchy and clean and also with some organic warmth, if you want. Some magic with the design combining certain converters, digital filters… maybe. I prefer it e.g. over the Octatrack sample engine, soundwise.

[@iamjamessmith]

Awesome vid, thanks for that.

[@SURCOlive]

Glad you liked it! Thank you so much for taking the time to watch!

[@michaelsmith4791]

33:30 what would you suggest as just a drum machine? i'm looking for one, im thinking about a digitakt..

[@SURCOlive]

Hi Michael! If you can afford a Digitakt, it is a fantastic sample based drum machine. The Elektron sequencer available on all of their machines is really second to none. It is a lot to learn, but you would never run out of ideas or new explorations. If you prefer a sample based workflow, it is a great option. There are some other great drum machines out there that have less robust sequencers, but the drum machine functionality is still great. I love the Roland TR-8S for it's flexibility and playability. A lot comes from what style of music you will play. If it is more hip hop and trap, something with an 808 sound like the Roland boutique or the Behringer RD-08. If you are more in the techno or house world, the 909 sound is classic and versatile. There are behringer and boutiques for that too. Sample based machines will provide the most flexibility of sound with the least customizability to create your own sounds. The Akai MPCs are amazing samplers and the pads for finger drumming are great too. There are a lot of options, but music style, playing style (finger drumming or sequencing), and workflow preference (samples vs synth) will drive the decision process. I hope this helps. Happy to answer any questions with a bit more information on your workflow. Thanks for watching!

[@michaelsmith4791]

@@SURCOlive many thanks for your deep reply, love your content! cheers

[@SURCOlive]

Thanks for watching!!!

[@GuitarsAndSynths]

I tried a friend's Syntakt and like Rytm better for the larger finger drum pads and it works for me.

[@BDKabrini]

Good Video. I hate when pple complain about Quip that doesn't do WHAT its not designed to do. Smh. I got the JX-08 and JUN06A paired with TR8S Great Team but ... A Do it all could be cool.

[@SURCOlive]

Thanks for watching!

[@pk9mmpara]

Many thanks for you,re meaning about this mashine.I have theAnaloge Rhytem two times, analouge 4, digitak and digitone after i watch you,re video i decided to bought me this maschine couse i cant believe that is a drum mashine .So now i,m waiting i love elektron many thanks for you,re meaning a great video.Can you send a link to you,re musik you make .many thanks

[@SURCOlive]

Glad you are liking the videos. You can find my music on Beatport under both Eric Bingham and SURCO. Some of it is also on Spotify and Apple Music. Thanks for watching!

[@Le-chat-qui-joue]

Enlightening video, thanks. One question remains, though: Does the Syntakt make the Digitone obsolete, or does it come to complete it? Is it worth using them together?

[@SURCOlive]

Glad you enjoyed the video. I think the answer to your question depends on the sounds you are looking for. They are very different. The Digitone has a distinct FM sound and is amazing at that. It is also polyphonic. The Syntakt has digital and analog engines so the sounds produced are very different. For me personally the Syntakt replaced the Digitone in my live set. I’m a fan of the Syntakt sound and mono synths work well in my workflow. The Digitone still has a place in production for me whenever I want that awesome fm sound. Thanks for watching!

[@Le-chat-qui-joue]

@@SURCOlive Thanks a lot for your answer :) It's the rhythmic aspect of the Syntakt that attracts me (and also the addition of MIDI tracks, 4 is a bit short on the DT). I'd like to replace the TR-6S which doesn't sync well with Elektron's devices (MIDI program change is out of sync, it's a known Roland bug). But as you said in the video, it's overkill, and overpay, to get the Syntakt as a drum machine. And between Jupiter-X and Digitone, I already have a large panel of complementary synth sounds.

[@SURCOlive]

@@Le-chat-qui-joue The small number of tracks on the DN is what made me switch more than anything. Having 12 voices in a box that size is amazing. The flexibility with the MIDI tracks is great too. I've been playing around with smaller setups. I'm using the OT as the performance mixer and the Syntakt with 8 voices internally and sequencing 4 voices in my modular. It's awesome to be able to swap out tracks whenever I want. Such a fun machine. Thanks again for watching!

[@blaster3744]

Damn i thought it could be a coffee machine 😂😂😂 very good video, i like the way you balance the pros and cons. It s crystal clear

[@SURCOlive]

Glad you liked it! Thanks for watching!

[@DrFearCo]

Great video!

[@SURCOlive]

Thanks for watching!

[@Number01]

Cool intro. :) Just started watching.

[@SURCOlive]

Hey, thanks!

[@kungfubeatsbysifufilter9431]

Great video, very interesting to hear a pro perspective.

[@SURCOlive]

I’m glad you enjoyed it. Thank you so much for watching!!!

[@yvesbajulaz]

Understand its nota sampler… neverless would have been even better if a couple tracks could have sampled, like digitakt… then it would have been all in one… also an arpeggiator would be awsome

[@SURCOlive]

I'm with you on the arp. Hopefully that comes with an update. I'm actually happy that it is unapologetically a synth like many others. There are a ton of other all in one boxes that are great (Deluge, MC707, MPC, Maschine+), so I'm glad they stuck to doing one thing well rather than trying to be something for everyone. The Digitakt and Octatrack already have sampling covered in their line, and neither is a synth. It is just so amazing that there are so many options for us to choose from. We can all get the ideal gear for our workflow. Thanks so much for watching!

[@Number01]

I'd love to see a video of just using the midi on the ST with all external gear.

[@SURCOlive]

I’ll have to out that one on the list!

[@von_Apa]

Wow! What a great video! Thank’s I’m initially a drummer but really would love to learn this. Do you know any beginners tutorial - if I buy this Maschine?

[@SURCOlive]

Thanks! Lots of great KZbin videos about these machines out there. I hope you enjoy it! Thanks so much for watching!

[@TJ-hs1qm]

Best thing about it is how the swing feels. The first Elektron Gear where the shuffle doesn't suck 👍

[@Aaron-on3ro]

Huh, The swing is exactly the same as digitakt ?

[@zjenji]

Does the Syntakt compete or compliment the Analog Four? Both have four tracks of Analog.

[@SURCOlive]

I would say compliment. Each does certain things (A4 can be polyphonic, Syntakt has 8 digital tracks). Both can sequence other gear, but Syntakt can do up to 12 channels to A4's 4. A4 has CV/Gate output. Syntakt has the FX block. Very different machines. I love them both! Thanks for watching!

[@cyberspacer]

Great stuff, thanks for sharing your thoughts! Small correction, the Digitone doesn’t have a master compressor, only distortion.

[@SURCOlive]

Yeah I got on a roll and meant to say Digitakt and Rytm. Nice catch. ;) thanks so much for watching!

[@guillaumeamangoua]

looks cool. kinda pricey though i should sell my jomox mbase, one of my mbrane and volca drum maybe missing indiviual outs though ?

[@GustavSandstedt]

Amazing video 😊👍🏼

[@SURCOlive]

Thank you!!!

[@GustavSandstedt]

I realized I really need to ad the Syntakt to my setup, just what I’ve been looking for. Thank you 😊

[@SURCOlive]

@@GustavSandstedt it has been amazing for me so far as well

[@mastermachetier5594]

i am in-between this and a analog rytm mk2 both look really good

[@SURCOlive]

Both are great! I have both in my live rig.

[@mastermachetier5594]

@@SURCOliveYour part of my issue ! I listen to your stuff and love it haha part of the inspiration to look at these machines

[@SURCOlive]

You don’t need my machines to make these sounds. I just prefer the way they work. You can’t go wrong with either of those.

[@mastermachetier5594]

@@SURCOlivethanks ! ya mostly I am looking to get my eurorack and EDM setup into a live gear situation. something that feels more performance then DJing . I am struggling with that and my current setup ! Then I saw how you approach live performance and it really resonated with me. I come from a jazz background so the performance part is really important to how to me personally.

[@caleblaughlin8351]

Fantastic overview / review. Very well done. Just wondering if you think they might add some sort of sampler functionality to it in a future update?🤪

[@SURCOlive]

I don't think so. This is a synth, and I think they will keep that the focus. Also without a plus drive or sample storage, they didn't build it for that. It pairs really well with a sampler though. Thanks so much for watching!

[@caleblaughlin8351]

I was totally kidding because you were so clear about it NOT being a sampler I had to be a smart ass and be THAT guy (see goofy face above) but I appreciate the professionalism in your response. Yes it is definitely a synth. That seems very apparent. Those who want it to be a sampler seem to miss the point that there is already a sample based Digi box. The Syntakt totally fills a niche IMO. Nice work. Dig your vids for sure!

[@SURCOlive]

@@caleblaughlin8351 Hahaha. Thank you for being lighthearted about it too.So many sample trolls here and I really don't want to put down anyone. It is not ideal for some, but it is for me and others who use gear the way I do. If I was a sample chopping, finger drumming, hip hop of DnB producer and performer, it wouldn't be for me and I'd have an MPC or a Maschine. I produce and perform techno, so it is just what I need. Thanks again for watching, and for the humor. :)

[@bigbeatnut]

@@SURCOlive Have to say that for me, if they just included sample playback as a digital machine, that would make a really nice upgrade from my model:cycles / model:samples combo. May still go for it though, could be with all those drum/percussion synthesis options, I wouldn't find the need for samples.

[@SURCOlive]

Upgrade from Cycles+Samples is Syntakt+Digitakt. ;) thanks for watching!

[@tchu0001]

No Master Compressor on the Digitone like you said at 20:20, though.

[@SURCOlive]

Totally correct. I misspoke. I meant to say Rytm and Digitakt. Nice catch. Thanks for watching!

[@boydw1]

Seems like an Arpeggiator would be a great addition? I'm told the Octatrack has one...

[@SURCOlive]

Agreed! The Octatrack and Digitone both have them. Thanks for watching!

[@visisydandthevoid]

Can't wait to get mine.

[@SURCOlive]

The anticipation is the worst!

[@visisydandthevoid]

@@SURCOlive yeah, I'm excited to complete my 3 piece set, and get started creating new tracks. I have the digitone keys and digitakt,.. and have messed with them, but been holding off creating new music with them, cuz been trying to complete my current album. This is gonna push me into making new music tho, because I'll have the control over drums I been wanting. It's not a pulsar 23,.. but I think it's gonna be perfect for what I need and my workflow

[@SURCOlive]

@@visisydandthevoid awesome! Can’t wait to hear what you do!

[@emilianoibarra3537]

is it possible to have tracks 1 to 8 just be drums and 9 to 12 synths for bass(9), synth(10), lead(11) and another rhythmic percussion (12)??