Why I Bought the Model:Cycles Instead of the Model:Samples

Why I Bought the Model:Cycles Instead of the Model:Samples
Today I'm talking about why I bought the Elektron Model:Cycles instead of the Model:Samples. This is a question that I get asked fairly frequently, so I figured it warranted it's own video to discuss! There's also a fun little jam at the end! Enjoy the video :)
Snare Machine Exploration: • Model:Cycles Snare Mac...
Metal Machine Exploration: • Model:Cycles Metal Mac...
Chord Machine Exploration: • How I Use the Model:Cy...
GEAR IN THIS VIDEO
Elektron Model:Cycles: amzn.to/2RkRSyH
Arturia Keystep 37: amzn.to/2QlxvkE
Zoom Livetrak L-12 (audio recorder): amzn.to/3ePsN8i
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[@ndguardian]

Here I was getting ready to ask if you had a video going over how to actually use the chord mode, but then you got right into it. Nicely done!

[@FreeBeat]

Haha yup! It's not the best but it will definitely get you started. Happy jamming!

[@elek-trick]

I bought both and I'm glad I did. They're both great instruments and they complete each other beautifully when played together

[@spare7230]

Was looking into this a while ago, found it curious the Samples seemed to be the focus of almost everyone. Ended up deciding both just aren't for me, personally, but super interesting topic. Thank you!

[@FreeBeat]

You made the grown-up decision hahaha. Thanks for watching!

[@FuZZbaLLbee]

Bought a second hand Squarp pyramid. Soon all my synths will have a great sequencer. 😀

[@FreeBeat]

Awesome!

[@free2muse]

I’m looking at getting a groove box and hadn’t even considered this one. Now I am considering it. :)

[@FreeBeat]

It's pretty awesome! If you're in a country that has the sale price going on right now, you still have about a day and a half from the time of me leaving this comment to pick one up at the discounted price!

[@jacopobonazza980]

@@FreeBeat or also what other groove box can I find for like 150-250 euros?

[@bikegarrett]

Great demo and jam thanks Free Beat

[@FreeBeat]

Thanks man!

[@notwasnot]

Great work here as usual , i'll be getting the model samples very shortly , because ... samples!!!! . i get your decision for the cycles , FM synthesis has so much to offer . in the affordable world, the korg volca FM is great to dive into .

[@FreeBeat]

I hope you love the Samples, thanks for watching!

[@bahutu802]

This is what I thought as well (with regards to the Volca FM). Nevertheless I find it _way_ too complicated to actually configure an fm patch on the volca. Like diving through 10 sub-menus etc... Yes it's easier with a PC connection, but that takes eliminates the portability unless you carry a laptop around. It's kind of sad because I think I achieve like 2% of what the volca FM would actually be capable of...

[@Thijzekneiz]

@@bahutu802 I get what you mean. The digitone from elektron is very much in between imo. Way easier to make awesome sounds and sequences and still with a lot of creative freedom. The work flow is great as well.

[@DopamineOverload]

Yo Free Beat! Just picked up a Sonicware Liven XFM, delivered yesterday. After playing with the M:C for about a month, and trying this out for just ONE day..... I gotta say, the XFM destroys the M:C. 4-part multitimbral, polyphonic sequencing, extensive editing, lots of great presets... Sonicware is really on top of their game. Cheap, awesome gear. I bought their 8bit warps a year ago... this XFM is such an amazing addition to that. Worth looking into, man. Really worth looking into, especially if you like the M:C as much as you do, and dig on the cool synth gear. I really think people are sleeping on Sonicware, and they definitely shouldn't.

[@FreeBeat]

Glad to hear you're loving it! It's been on my list for a while, hoping to get one soon :)

[@DopamineOverload]

@@FreeBeat Definitely fun. Played m ore with the Model:Cycles and I might have come to the conclusion it's the better piece. While the XFM is polyphonic, it's only 6-note, across 4 tracks. I experienced note-stealing when I was building a pattern. Track priority I think is 4 3 2 1... that was a drag, finding that out. Cycles might have better presets, to start (have no idea how to program it to make interesting ones of my own).... but yeah. 6 tracks. You can have 6 chord tracks if you want, to get some crazy layers and ambient textures. Or, just one, and 5 monophonic tracks. Essentially, the M:C has the edge. The reverb on the Model:Cycles is incredible (like the Samples) because well, Elektron. Reverb on the XFM is a bit weak-sounding. I love how you can add delay/reverb per track, easily, with the M:C. The Verb and Delay on the XFM is global, per-pattern. Definitely think the M:C is the better choice. But the XFM is still really cool. And being able to actually play chords, instead of programming them in, is a huge bonus with the XFM. Then again, the chance/conditions with the M:C.... huge strength. Just wanted to give you an update. I think I totally prefer the M:C.

[@KarzenX]

@@DopamineOverload great comparison thanks

[@DopamineOverload]

Also, how'd you get the click not heard when you made your first pattern? Thx! Another question--- when you wanted Dmajor7, it made a D dominant 7... are there major 7 chords available in the M:C? Or just dominant7 and minor7? Thx again!

[@FreeBeat]

I did misspeak, but I believe there are major 7 chords as well. And after recording my bass drum part I simply turned the click off.

[@SonicVibe]

Fantastic video very informative keep it up

[@FreeBeat]

Thanks so much!

[@SonicVibe]

@@FreeBeat Bro your contents fantastic

[@S.tebban]

Since you were so kind mentioning us the sale on both Electrons I couldn't hold my GAS anymore. So here I am again to find out why you bought the cycles and why I should, or not. Or both...

[@FreeBeat]

They are both fantastic. Like I mentioned in this video, I went with the cycles because I wanted a truely all-in-one box, without having to worry about loading samples at all. Let me know which one you get!

[@rockhead11]

the Model Cycles is the most fun, creative and unique piece of gear I own which includes the Microfreak, Minilogue xd, MC101and more. I have created grooves that I have never heard or imagined before and that alone is worth the $300. (Now my MPC One is in a category of its own)

[@tijmen1949]

Would you say the minilogue xd and cycles complement each other? Been thinking of adding the xd

[@rockhead11]

@@tijmen1949 They are really 2 very different instruments but mixing the unlikely is what makes our synthesizer world so much fun

[@tijmen1949]

@@rockhead11 that’s one of the reasons. Adding warm analog sounds, and polyphony. Bit scared the cycles drowns out next to it though

[@rockhead11]

@@tijmen1949 Ok, I’ll set mine up together and see how musical it is. I’ll let you know ...probably tomorrow

[@FreeBeat]

Awesome, glad you love it!

[@DidierBampiliMusicProduction]

Nice tutorial 🙌🏾

[@FreeBeat]

Thank you so much!

[@DopamineOverload]

Love your channel and vids but I STILL don't know why everyone wants an FM synth instead of a sample player with 1GB of storage... I think the Model:Samples is the shit and a half! And I've done a ton of research, studying both. I do not get why people want this one instead of the Samples. You can have every vintage drum machine in one unit with the M:S (assuming you have the WAV one-shots, which are ridiculously easy to find). Every basic pattern can be a specific kit, and you can easily have all the best sounds in one box, and that's not even including using it for melodic patterns. It rules! :)

[@sinewaymusic]

I think it comes down to whether you prefer to work with samples or designing your own sounds. I'm more of a synth person than a sample person, but between these two, I tend to agree that the M:S is more versatile because the FM engine is quite limited. Between the Digitakt and the Digitone though, the Digitone is the clear winner for me as you have endless sound design capabilities which is so cool. There's no right or wrong here. Keep in mind that the M:C has chords mode which makes it easier to create melodies and chord progressions. The M:S has none of that so you need to sample the chords you need and play them as one shots. Generally I'd say that the M:S is a great drum machine, but less of an "instrument". The M:C is more of an instrument with groovebox features as a bonus. Hope this helps.

[@7177YT]

Well I own a Cycles and hat a go on samples once or twice. Cycles is a magic bix of wonder, samples doesn't tempt me at all in comparison. The synth engine is pretty deep, it's a bit more than just a drummachine. (;

[@sinewaymusic]

@@7177YT Definitely more than a drum machine! I just meant that between the M:C and the Digitone, the Digitone offers a much deeper synth engine. The M:C sure looks fun to play with. 😊

[@FreeBeat]

Like I said I'm the video, I wanted an all in one box haha. Working with samples just doesn't really do it for me honestly. Thanks for watching!

[@Lala-cw7ez]

@@sinewaymusic I create my own sample banks (sounds made by modular synths etc) which I load into to my Model Samples

[@samprock]

trying to stick to OP-Z and Verselab, but this box looks as cool sequencer and sounds cool!

[@FreeBeat]

The sequencer is super powerful!

[@MrCoyoteculler]

I bought cyces first and WOW! Love it. Just got the samples and im thinkin it too is a wow. I have only used the stock samples so far and its good

[@unknown9274]

got it the other day with the elektron discount. It’s super fun

[@FreeBeat]

Right on, glad you're liking it!

[@zoned7609]

I'm holding off on the FM volca and model:cycles in favor of the megaFM genesis yamaha chip based FM synth. i love FM synthesis, and I use Genny as a VST to cure my addiction until the thing with knobs and sliders gets here :)

[@FreeBeat]

I've looked at the megaFM for a while now but it's just a little out of my price range sadly. I hope you're able to get one and absolutely love it!

[@zoned7609]

​@@FreeBeat if you aren't playing the stock market, it's a LOT easier than it seems. Without that, I wouldn't be quite as eager to fund my GAS :)

[@Madmohawkfilms]

I went for a Yamaha Reface DX and sold my Volca FM. Yeah the Reface is ONLY a 4 operator FM Synth but a bargain at $299.99 with 8 voice polyphony.

[@philipm2100]

Would love to see a tutirial vid for how to sequence external synth with model samples or cycles,has not worked for me and not found a vid that explains fully

[@FreeBeat]

It's on the list of videos I need to make haha, thanks for watching!

[@philipm2100]

Love the channel, been watching for a quite a while now, keep up the great work

[@marcelocg]

I am going through this internal discussion right now. Will buy my first groovebox and after months of studying workflows on KZbin, for me it seems the :Samples is the winner! The sample loading is not a strong argument to my reasoning as it’s not such a frequent action, or is it?

[@FreeBeat]

It depends on how you work with samples. I'm constantly changing things, so it would be fairly frequent for me. I hope you love the M:S though!

[@lundsweden]

Model:Samples is definately more flexible. I still like the Model: Cycles though!

[@wegroove1256]

What other midi keyboards have the same function, as i dont like arturia?

[@RobbekenSynthMusic]

Excellent machine.

[@FreeBeat]

Right? It's amazing!

[@MeshuggahDave.]

How do you arrange a set between track banks? How do you choose T1:123456… Then choose bank T2 For:123456…. On bank T2 I’m holding number 6 on T1 and pressing the pattern button and it’s forgetting everything from bank T1 after trying to switch to bank T2 while arranging patterns by holding their respective numbers to input a string… I get I only need to hold one of the string while putting in all the others. Changing banks resets the string.

[@FreeBeat]

Changing banks resets the string, correct. It just means you have to be a little more involved in the training process if you're trying to get all of your songs into one project.

[@bahutu802]

Let's appreciate for a second that they implemented chord inversions which is so DANG nice! My feeling with chords in root position is that you can use them for brainstorming a musical idea, but a song will immediately sound super cheap if the chords are more than 2-3 notes apart. Not so with that device, on which you can use the chords for finished arrangements

[@FreeBeat]

Absolutely! Such a simple thing to include but it really makes the whole machine work!

[@auraglasswerks4900]

@@FreeBeat cycles and samples are not comparable dork😂

[@CmdrMic]

Interesting vid, but you melted my brain. ;-)

[@FreeBeat]

Hahaha sorry!

[@spamshinobi]

Elektron does this across the board, Digitakt 8 vs Digitone, Octotrack vs MKII. sampler vs synth. I went for the samples but because I like sample workflow, but other people gel with the cycles and they do great stuff in like 0 time flat (the jam on this video for example)

[@FreeBeat]

Yeah it's really just about what speaks to you! Thanks for watching :)

[@unclebuttonz7865]

I'm eyeing a models:sample and an NTS-1 on local FB marketplace. This GAS is killing me

[@FreeBeat]

That'd be a great combo!

[@unclebuttonz7865]

@@FreeBeat The first thing I hooked up to my new NTS-1 was the OM-300. So lush.

[@nodaysback8390]

Beat reminds of Break 4 Love from back in the day.. loll

[@FreeBeat]

Thanks for watching!

[@Madmohawkfilms]

I have the Model Samples and just got a Digitakt. Can you change whats in each track on the Model Cycles? IOW more than 1 chord track, NO DRUMS at all on other tracks. Trying to figure a way to work my Uno Drum in somewhere :) Thanks

[@FreeBeat]

Yes you can! I actually have several episodes here on the channel where I make jams completely out of one sound engine across all six tracks :)

[@Madmohawkfilms]

@@FreeBeat AWESOME Thanks man. i’ll go have a peek after I watch this Digitakt video on making Random Arp Patterns. Hesitated on Cycles and Digitone because I already own a Yamaha Reface DX 4 operator FM Synth.

[@TehRc3]

I chose synth over samples all day. Thanks for the info…

[@FreeBeat]

Thanks for watching!

[@6ix611]

with the cycles & samples are you able to save & work on multiple projects? or just one at a time?

[@FreeBeat]

You can indeed have multiple, I believe it's actually 96, but don't quote me on that.

[@royalecondrey]

total sidebar but i cant get your intro jingle out of my head

[@FreeBeat]

Haha it's actually the baseline to one of my tracks "Ghost in the Galaxy," off of my op-z album "In Over My Head." You can check it out for free on my bandcamp page if you click the link in the description :)

[@malrowmusic]

could you use the fonctions of the keystep to alternate the sounds with this set up?

[@malrowmusic]

fonction chord for ex

[@iosmusicman]

LMAO and FB you will LYAO because I searched for a model:cycles on ebay (of which there were many) and made an offer on one. It arrived. I was busy. I figured I'd check the firmware/OS and see if it needed upgrading (it did) but I ran into problems. It turns out I got the M:S not the M:C - hahaha. Now I'll just switch my mode of thinking for the device I actually have and you never know I might just get the M:C too. Cheers. Lee

[@FreeBeat]

I hope you like the Model:Samples! I might have some questions for you soon about it haha.

[@melokit-music]

Finaly, i'm agree 😁

[@FreeBeat]

Thanks!

[@traitortotheliving]

Now you need a Digitakt 🙌

[@FreeBeat]

I honestly have no interest in the DT haha. However, the Digitone is a different story!

[@swaginyourmouth]

Caffeine or some other stimulant influenced looking hand situation eh?! mans hands make Italian old men look subtle 👌👌👈👉👆🖐🤞☝️👌👌👌

[@FreeBeat]

Nope haha I just talk with my hands!

[@swaginyourmouth]

@@FreeBeat my apologies...you will be the dopest old person though one day yo with that level of gesticulation swag btw

[@swaginyourmouth]

@@FreeBeat I also talk with my hands haha and I am honestly considering either getting a cycles to work in conjunction with my model:samples. Also yo.....I appreciate(awkward dj Khaled voice) y’all making these videos as it informs others myself included about different pieces of gear

[@swaginyourmouth]

@@FreeBeat bless you though I love your videos bruv.... love from Canada

[@themetamorph]

I think his hand gestures are great-expressive and natural and combined with a lovely clear,articulate voice it is a winner.

[@Left-All-Rights]

Nice...

[@FreeBeat]

Thank you!

[@goodnoyz]

Can you sample from vinyl into the model or samples?

[@FreeBeat]

Neither the Model:Cycles or Model:Samples actually let you sample into the units. The Model:Samples lets you load samples into it from a computer via USB, but that's it.

[@thedarkirish]

On sale now!

[@FreeBeat]

Oh wow, $50 USD off! I'm going to have to make a post about this, thanks for pointing out!

[@cheapnoise9014]

Which groove box is best for a blind musician. I thaught that the Circuit Tracks was the best but you need software to get the most of it and said software isn't accessible.

[@FreeBeat]

I would probably say the OP-Z, as long as you aren't sampling. That's a hard one though, I've always got you in mind when I'm checking out new gear though!

[@cheapnoise9014]

Thanks so much!

[@GeorgeL909]

I have been thinking about this a lot. I imagine the best full setup would be a multi machine setup. I actually think something like the Behringer model D (or Moog if you can afford it) would be much more accessible sound design wise as it is literally one knob per function, with no menus, no presets, and no need for any visual feedback. Coupled with a keystep for keys, and perhaps a model cycles purely for drum sounds, since the default on startup sets up tweakable drums, and a tone and chord machine without any menu diving in a predictable and intuitive way. Instead of sequencing everything, perhaps recording directly into a 4 track or 8 track Tascam would be better, since you could just play live and overdub by ear as opposed to trying to guess what step the next note should go on. So imagine, you record a drum sequence live into the cycles. Tweak till you get the sound and tempo to taste, record a few minutes of drum jamming into track 1 on the Tascam or even a loop from the cycles with knob turning for variation. Then you have a beat laid down, you could then play the model D for the bassline on track 2 live, and a lead on track 3 etc. Tweaking each patch until you get a sound you like, and even live tweaking as you play, until you build a full song recorded on the Tascam. This is just one possible idea thinking of maximum flexibility with minimum fuss and memorization. My 2 cents.

[@melokit-music]

Anyway, have you ever try the Deluge by Synthstrom ? I haven't look if you made a review about it 😁🌈

[@FreeBeat]

I haven't yet, but it's on my list!

[@melokit-music]

@@FreeBeat hope you will try it, i'm a big fan of this machine and all users are waiting for a major update for this incredible sequencer ⚡

[@enensis]

I sold my cycles a few weeks after buying it. I honestly found all songs ended up sounding the same. It's really not that versatile

[@FreeBeat]

In my opinion it is pretty versatile, but you have to put in a lot of work to get past those same sounds. I should have a video coming out with some tips on how to do this soon. Thanks for watching!

[@sheepkillindog]

Gotta work that box to get results

[@producerdane3134]

the model samples comes w 300 samples built in

[@FreeBeat]

It does, but unfortunately that doesn't really speak to me. If I'm using samples I want them to be once that I've recorded and created myself.

[@KarzenX]

00:45 comparison

[@jdssurf]

what if you only need a good drum machine, Samples maybe better?

[@FreeBeat]

If you've got samples and a computer to load them onto the Model:Samples then sure :)

[@jdssurf]

@@FreeBeat so you can just buy drum and other sample packs, download them to model samples and play em as a kick and snare and such separately? pry what I need then.

[@arhythmatek-1683]

I got rid of mine fast. I ended up making exactly what you are making here. Over and over and over. It has a hard time escaping that same vibe. For an unlimited device, it sure does sound limited real fast.

[@FreeBeat]

It's definitely a challenge to escape those typical sounds, but it can be done. I should have a video coming out pretty soon with some tips to do just that. Thanks for watching!

[@marcosrotllan]

Do techno!!!!!

[@djcuda]

Model cycles with the microcosm is crazy

[@FreeBeat]

I need to get my hands on one of those eventually.

[@thomasmattphoto]

Your HYPERACTIVE hands FREAK me out ! LOL can't concentrate on what you saying - otherwise nice informative video :)

[@FreeBeat]

Haha in the almost two years since I posted this video I like to think I've gotten a little better, but who knows!

[@relative_vie]

Put playback speed on 1.5 😎

[@inevitablecraftslab]

Why would you upload 100ds of samples if your goal is to make music and not flipping though samples ? ^^ That's a strange arguement

[@ruudvincent6078]

The sounds are fine and great but these machines are so ugly and dull despite the stickers.

[@FreeBeat]

I wouldn't necessarily say they are ugly, but they're certainly pretty dull lol.

[@ruudvincent6078]

@@FreeBeatBut I enjoy your video anyway!

[@epiclauren4757]

They look freaking sick in my opinion. Its all personal taste. I love this alternative kinda look more than smth like an old school 808 or flashy modern roland stuff

[@darrenringer9811]

At Doom's Gate

[@klaasj7808]

dumb reason haha