Elektron Digitakt meets Novation Circuit Tracks.
After a year embracing the learning curve with the Elektron Digitakt, I finally decided that it was time to upgrade my setup with a new machine. It took me a little while to figure out what I really needed! I took time to test different machines and synths those last months but I was never really satisfied by the workflow and sounds. Especially since I want the Digitakt to stay the main brain and centrepiece of my setup.
It then came together nicely when I got introduced to the Circuit Tracks. - I found the CT to be a very effective standalone groovebox for my needs. With two refined polyphonic digital synth tracks that I really wanted to implement in my setup for upcoming live set and new musical projects.
I've been enjoying this new device for a week now! I can't wait to share new jams with you with those two beasts paired together! Special thanks to my friend @bigcitystudios for introducing me to this device and guiding me through the whole process!!
UPDATE!
This week "Hardware Jams Challenge" was the right opportunity to put a jam together with the Digitakt and Circuit Tracks. We had to make a track inspired by how the pandemic affected us. This is definitely a deep subject. I decided to focus on the bright side of it! Why not add a touch of optimism to these complex and difficult times right?
I've seen this pandemic as an effective way to improve my environmental health and focus on what matters the most. Enjoying a quieter and less busy life eventually by being very selective on how to use my time. I'm still working on balancing my routines, but I learned to slow down and enjoy what I had near me more than anything else. - Thankful for my other half for always bearing with me and being supportive in all my sometimes questionable endeavors haha!
Those challenging times finally made me realize how addicted to music I am. I felt in love with the DAWless community when the pandemic started and I'm not yet to get over it.
This weekend challenge gave me the opportunity to test my new setup as well! Here is the Elektron Digitakt paired with the Novation Circuit Tracks. This is my first jam with those two machines. I still have to improve my technic and my recording method (the general mix is a little bit muddy!), but this combination of gears feels already awesome!!
My first impressions?
Some of you were asking about my first impressions concerning the Novation Circuit Tracks. I obviously have to dive deeper in its workflow and capabilities but my debuts with this device are very positive.
I find the Circuit Tracks fitting my current vision of a portable and versatile live setup. Easy to cary around. I mainly wanted to integrate it in my setup for live purpose. The two polyphonic synth engines let you experiment, expand your creative capabilities and define your sonic palette in a very smooth and intuitive way (especially when you are a noob like me in synthesis/patches).
Pairing it with the Digitakt is super easy (especially since the last OS 1.30 update with the external audio input functionality and new external mixer). The velocity-sensitive pads and tactile control with customizable patches of the Circuit Tracks bring you closer to your music for maximum enjoyment. I you have the sense of details and enjoy creating off the grid, the micro-timing possibilities will for sure seduce you. That way your sounds and creations can keep evolving with different probability, pattern mutate…
I’ve only had the Circuit Tracks for about 2 weeks and it’s been nothing but fun. A very versatile and affordable stand alone. Fast, intuitive and straightforward. It’s workflow lets you create instinctively. Being able to create on the go with the rechargeable battery is definitely a big plus as well. If you have any questions regarding this engine and my workflow, feel welcome to reach me out anytime.
Alright, let’s get back at it ;) … Thankful for your time hanging out over here 🖤🏰.
