Elektron Model:Cycles is a new six-part FM Groovebox
Elektron Model:Cycles is the latest synthesizer offering from the Swedish manufacturers, it’s a six-part FM Groovebox.
We recently saw the release of the Model:Samples, a compact and powerful Groovebox style sample player with a huge focus on sequencing and playability.
The new Elektron Model:Cycles takes a similar concept and form-factor, but dives headfirst into the world of FM synthesis.
FM synthesis can come with a bit of a learning curve, however, this one is designed with several different engines – specific for certain sounds, making the creation process much more fluid.
There are specific engines for Kick, Snare, Metal, Perc, Tone and Chord – each with their own set of parameters to suit that sound. The four sound-shaping parameters are categorized by colour, shape, sweep and contour.
All of the major parameters feature dedicated controls, giving it an incredibly immediate workflow and making it super easy to record in automation and parameter locks.
What are parameter locks?
For those who are unfamiliar with Elektron stuff, their sequencers generally feature an incredibly nifty function that they call “parameter locks”. It gives you the ability to save an entire state, like a preset of all of your parameters, for each step in the sequence.
This adds an absolutely insane level of expression and articulation to your sequences. You could potentially have a single voice, changing to a totally different sound on each step.
The Elektron Model:Cycles also features the trig nudge – for nudging steps on or off the grid, trig conditions – for various probabilistic effects and a retrigger function to create instant beat-rolls. The synth has built-in delay and reverb and two modifier modes – “punch” and “gate” which alter the voices of each part. These can all be automated or engaged with parameter locks.
It features two balanced audio outputs – something not common with the more compact synths, class-compliant USB audio and MIDI I/O via 3.5mm TRS and USB.
Elektron Model:Cycles is retailing for USD $299 (Around R4600 excl. duties).
For more information check out the Elektron website here.
