Love your videos' well presented man keep it up, I have 2 OG circuits plus the mono station, love novation gear, spent few quid on it over the years, quality :)
Awesome insight! I feel like one additional consideration when deciding between the two is the fact that the og circuit of 2021 is a far stronger instrument than when it first came out due to all the updates. If Novation keeps up with this then you have to consider that the Circuit Tracks of today may well be a far stronger instrument in 3 or 4 years
Regarding Sound-Packs - the format of the OG's SysEx has been reversed, so we know how to go SysEx Wav. I believe that the Tracks just uses a Zip of Wav files. There should be no difficulty transferring between the two. See "circuit_samples" on GitHub.
Good kirby simile! I agree with you, it really depends if you have other synths or not. The ability to process audio and changing the midi thru to a second midi out is so cooooooool. I really like the upgrades that novation provided in the new circuit tracks. Otherwise, if you want to just jam outside and throw something in your backpack with some fresh AA batteries then I think the original ticks all the boxes.
I just picked up my OG this year because of you. I also just got a Keystep 37, I kinda wish I would’ve waited for the tracks. Oh well. I might upgrade thou.
Appreciate your honesty in terms of whether to upgrade. But Gabe, you know what vid we all are waiting for...an honest Tracks Vs. MC101 battle!🔥🔥...p.s. That kirby Reference was #barz🔥🔥🔥🤣🤣🤣
Gabe, for me the real dealbreaker on the Circuit Tracks are the 32 steps and the new sequences automation. This alone will make the Tracks more suitable to make full tracks and give more space to perform with control. I’ve always felt 16 steps makes hard to compose without step into the boring territory. Another thing is that we know Novation is gonna keek pushing updates and new features on it. Can’t wait to see what else are they dreaming about for the Circuit family on the future.
That's definitely a good quality of life update, I mentioned that in yesterday's video and will be sure to touch on it once I do a proper review. I've never found the 16 steps _too_ limiting, since you can just chain patterns and record into that chain, but having a sustained chord or bass note stretch over more than one bar without retriggering or using note tie is lovely.
great video! just in time for me to consider between the two models. I would most definitely choose the og circuit, mostly due to the fact that i dont really need extra midi tracks. also an extra 100 dollars i mean who wouldnt heh
I hesitate between the circuit, circuit tracks and circuit rhythm. I was wondering about the OG because I can have one for 160$ instead of 280$ for a circuit rhythm.
I’m thinking of getting one secondhand as well, as they’re quite affordable, just to see if I dig the workflow, then you can sell and upgrade ! Better yet, you like it so much you don’t wanna get rid of it. Might as well try!
Just picked up the OG used for around $200 which is less than half the price of Circuit Tracks where I live. Already having loads of fun with it. I'll upgrade when I feel like I need to.
Got the rhythm a few weeks ago and it’s an insane beast. Haven’t even begun to scratch the surface of this awesome box. Still have the OG because it’s an original member of the group. Tip to buyers.....after putting in an SD card , the speed is insanely faster and response is quicker. They don’t tell you but you CANNOT USE AN SD CARD MORE THAN 32 gigs or it will not work. Luckily I noticed this in a reddit forum and saved the frustration of wtf. Either choice is solid ad I have external gear and soft synths so I went with the rhythm and the awesome sample tweaking abilities. An excellent box and really can get complex if you wish, in that good way. :)
I just ordered mine, I've never owned the og circuit so this will be a completely new xp for me, I was looking for the og circuit s few days ago and couldn't find a good deal and then the new one was announced and it's kind of a no-brainer for me
I wanna buy the Rhythm but the battery scares me a little bit since you can't replace it. The og circuit eould be perfect but I don't know ig components works with speach synthesizers like Jaws on PC. What should I buy?
At least there is Circuit Tracks and there is even a chance that OG Circuit could get some updates. Circuit Mono Station just disappeared into nowhere.
I've always wanted a second OG I remember original being disapointed that you couldnt change midi channels, so that stopped me. Then they added firmware support but by then I was playing the laptop being the brain again. So this looks cool to me as a second unit.
I'm so glad the OG sold out last summer then. I was trying to buy one and had trouble finding it. I would've been so pissed to have bought it only to see it ditched 6 months later. There will probably be a market flood of them now.
I bought the OG Circuit with the hopes of using it as a drum machine + synth/bass (for guitar accompaniment) but soon realized that it was firmly in the category of "groove box" because due to its limitations the patterns had to be pretty repetitive. I threw it aside hoping that Novation would eventually enable session chaining through updates (allowing less repetitive music genres). Now I'm a bit upset that I wasted my money on the OG Circuit because it will never get there. Simultaneously I'm trying to decide if I should risk it by buying the new Circuit Tracks because I'm hearing that chaining sessions is now possible. Can anyone confirm this? The sd memory and audio ins do make the new circuit much more compelling for those of us who are interested in dawless/live setups.
How does Korg electribe 2 compare or compete with circuit tracks and it’s brother? If you were to only have one which would you choose and why? Thanks so much as I already have the Korg and I’m just now finally getting to know it better and I’m wondering if I really need to get the circuit tracks or it’s sibling.
Hey Gabe-so I was pricing my OG circuit--Used Ones have hit Reverb for around $270 on Reverb. That said-Thank you for the video-I'm going to hold on to mine. Why? Because I haven't even taken the time to actually program/play the OG completely. It can totally compose even longform music-and you can just mute the the two synth tracks if you want to outboard to two separate hardware synthesizers-and plug them all into a mixer. Also, I built custom racks and the Circuit Tracks doesn't have Decksaver Hard Case yet! :-) And, Discontinued means-it's not my fault! Finally, $400 bucks-I could actually install a dashcam and back up cam on my used car. But anybody thinking Circuit-Get the Tracks. No really-You chose wisely! :-) Peace, Gabe!
Not a huge synth guy. I had an old micro Korg and sold it for a guitar Your videos peaked my interest in the circuit so I’m hoping i can get a second had OG circuit for a good price to play with.
You know how you can hold shift and select patterns and play them in any order? Does the new one still do this? Does each drum track only get 4 patterns with the new one instead of 8 like the synths?
Just tested this... You get 8 patterns and you can chain all 8 together. You unfortunately can't chain them out of order. You can make a pattern 32 bars long though so that should help.
@@GabeMillerMusic I mean I wish I could chain them out of order, but having the ability to make a 16 bar loop; 32 steps is basically 2 bars times 8 patterns -> 16 bars; is workable for me. I'm interested to hear more about this thing. I love my og circuit.
I just wish it had a little screen! I have the opz and the lack of a screen, even a tiny one, really gets frustrating. I know people like you who use it everyday know your way around it and dont need a screen but for the weekend musician like me who only pick up their music hobby gear once and a while im constantly having to re-learn button press combos and menus and it gets really old 🤷♂️
I have an OP-Z too and I disagree about the screen. The problem with the OP-Z is that everything is so overloaded and nothing is labeled. I’ve ordered a Circuit Tracks and I expect it to be much easier to use (Gabe certainly helped get me interested in the Circuit mindset). And the lack of screen helps keep things visible on the surface - unlike the MC-101 for example.
And I want to add that I adore the OP-Z, I just end up spending more time figuring out how to use it, and fixing the things I've messed up by hitting the wrong combination of buttons, than actually making music…
It probably just takes a lot of time using it to get used to its interface. I'm having a similar reaction to my Polyend Tracker, even though it has a screen. lol. I do realize there isn't anything I can do other than keep putting it to use until I get comfortable with it. One of the "benefits" is that it's driven me back to extensive guitar playing and practice, while I figure out how to approch the Tracker. :-)
For me, fixed parameters on the controls is a major upgrade. It's very frustrating trying to figure out what the knobs are doing on each different sound with the OG. 32 steps is a nice upgrade if the circuit is your only box or your centre piece. I am disappointed that they took the speaker off, that was a special touch and taking it off (for me) puts the emphasis away from the couch or the campfire and back into the studio. The new circuit will (initially) push the price of the OG down so if I was starting out I would go for the OG. I wont be selling mine for a while (if at all) and at £360 the new one faces some serious (more heavyweight) competition, especially in the second hand market.
I guess, all or most of the software (firmware) changes - they could migrate to the OG Circuit as well - after all, it's just a CPU with all the controls and peripherals around it - the peripherals are a bit different - the battery, sd drive, more midi, audio inputs, etc, but the controls are exactly the same, so the question is the CPU. If it's powerful enough, many features (e.g. eight track, 4 independent drum tracks, better interface for the drums, etc) of the Tracks could go to the OG too. I still hope they'll do something about it.
They are already there-except for the sample time on the OG-it's just 60 seconds. The Tracks just nukes that with the SD card. Since the synth engines are the same-the CPU is probably equivalent. All the new output/Input options on the tracks nuke the OG from orbit. :-)
Considering I bought my og back in june of 2020, it was kinda bittersweet for sure. Wish I could of saved up for a little while longer. But honestly had a little thing happened where novation sent me a tracks for free. So I’m thankful for that
@@manifestomode1 Na tho I had a warranty but when I went to get the warranty thru, they said they no longer make the OGs. So I sent my original back and they sent a tracks. I had 2 OGs sn only one now. Sold the tracks kuz I got a DAW and a midi controller(s).......I basically just use the circuit to make ideas and then midi them into Ableton
The thing most people don't realize about an internal rechargeable battery is that it's usually the first part to fail, just like in your phone. This might shorten the lifespan of the product. Although only time will tell.
@@healthyhappyhero I know. It uses regular AA batteries. But the capability to control external devices is improved in the new model. The MPC One seems great. I don't like AKAI much though.
Circuit Tracks - Is it possible to have two different packs on one machine and jump between them? Delorian Dream and Vapor for example. Jump between synths and samples
You can! It's not instantaneous, but the Circuit Tracks (and the Rhythm as well) can store multiple packs. You still can't load samples into the synth slots though.
The OG Looks more solid it stays put on my work surface which I is something I like. It makes me think it’s maybe sturdier than the new one . I haven’t held the new one so this could just be a silly opinion based on my eyes. (Two questions) Does it slide around when you are playing it? How much better are the new pads?
Yeah I'd say so. It feels a bit more solid, and the thinness, the finish, and the pads make it feel like it's a lot more expensive than it is. The pads remind me more of the Maschine plus/mk3... They're a little bit than the OG bigger, have a slightly higher amount of resistance (still very comfortable to play), and they ditched the rounded off corners. Although I've never had problems with my gear sliding around.
I'm kind of excited that the OG Circuit has been discontinued. I already have one. I love it. I will be keeping it and may even pick up some clearance/discount used units for daisy chaining, just because. Prolly gonna pick up both the Tracks and Rhythm, though, because the OG is so, so good.
Definitely fair. I'm imagining a Circuit lite would be good for people just getting into music production or hardware, who maybe don't need the advanced features of the Tracks. But at the moment, it looks like the OG has jumped in to fulfill that purpose.
I gave up waiting for a circuit pro and grabbed the 707. No regrets, with all the limitations the circuit has long forgotten, and seems Novation aren't interested in resolving them with this facelift update. Looks great though for controlling several external devices, if that's your thing.
@@thisisbradelaide I bought a launchpad pro mk3 to fill that gap a while ago. I have found myself using the launchpad more than the circuit these days, but I've got lots of synthesizers, so I don't really bother with the Nova engine elements of the OG circuit any more. I think I probably will have to buy a 707, I'd been holding off until the tracks was released, but now that there is next to no value in upgrading I'll have to go to another manufacturer. On the fence between an Octatrack and the MC707.
I would use it just to get away from a computer screen and for inspiration, but eventually connect back to Logic to finish off track. That's doable? The OG Circuit is around $250 now. Could also let my 9 yo son play around with it. Just not sure about lack of future updates could mess up working with it in Logic?
Yeah that should be totally doable if you record midi into Logic with either Circuit, and updates wouldn't hinder that. I did a whole video on the process: ua-cam.com/video/f-93uwDyDbo/v-deo.html
I'll keep using both, but I'm putting a heavy emphasis on the new one. Partially because it's super exciting for me, and because I want to take advantage of the momentum it has to drive traffic to the channel. But I'll revisit the OG from time to time, I definitely won't ever get rid of it.
I'm mostly only interested in the Rhythm. But that's because it seems more like an SP 404 with a better sequencer, velocity, and actual pitch control. And if it's also 400, when Roland is still selling the SP for 550 new? Forget about it
I've been looking at the circuit for some months and because of the costs I've tried to make music with programs like fl studio. But I just don't find it that fun and I think that having a hands on machine would make it way more fun. But it's hard to justify the costs so if anyone has any opinions on if I should get one or keep trying fl studio plz let me know.
This type of gear is partially aimed at getting instant gratification, but essentially its not. For example, I use Yamaha QY 700 - very slow and bulky machine. Very complex too. If anything it slows you down and FL is QUICK. By slowing down, hitting machine limits and doing every change matter ( because doing every operation takes time ) does change quality of my songwriting. Now every note counts. Harmonies are not thrown together last minute , but worked out. I could do same with software, essentially, but you have to have focus and experience other workflows.
Might be winning an OG for well under 100 GBP, as I want the simpler scratchpad-fun setup combined with my circuit mono… …will update if maybe turns into definitely 👍
Re: 1:20 - the number of watchers AND people viewing the ‘uncommon’ OG auctions is very very high: well above other gear auctions I’ve seen lately. In direct contrast, the auctions for the tracks & rhythm, are relatively low by comparison. Nearly 100 viewers in 24hrs, and over 60 watchers… …not as many bidders. My analysis is that folks have a ‘fondness’ for the OG, it definitely has earned its spot in the cultural history of music-making
Given your desire for minimalist setup, I'm curious why you haven't reviewed FL Studio Mobile yet (I saw your Caustic 3 videos but that app is not being maintained and, in my opinion, way inferior to FL Studio Mobile). I just tried it this weekend and I'm simply blown away. Literally a tiny little DAW in your pocket that is always available, connects with your bluetooth earpods of choice, and has virtually limitless tracks and a super quick workflow that you figure out after a 10 minute tutorial/RTFM session. To sweeten the deal, it lets you export your individual track stems in wav/flac format along with midi so you can finish the track off in your proper DAW of choice. After being so close to picking up an MC-101 or Circuit Tracks based on your many videos, I thought I'd share this tip in case you had completely missed this little gem. It easily produces higher quality music than any of the available hardware grooveboxes out there IMHO, much thanks to it being, essentially, a proper DAW. Here's a quick track I put together in less than two hours. I intend to use this app as a music sketchpad (that's why I was looking at your groovebox videos). After using this for a couple of days, honestly the price tag of less than $20 makes it very difficult to even consider paying north of $450 for a hardware groovebox that is way more limited in almost every aspect, except for the immediacy of the hands-on hardware (and, for the Roland MCs, the amazing sound bank). ua-cam.com/video/chkciE0Fpuc/v-deo.html
Tbh I tried it a couple of years ago and it didn't do much for me in terms of the interface and what seemed like limited sound shaping. I should definitely give it a go again though. One app that I _have_ been messing around with is Koala Sampler, which is really fun and hands on.
@@GabeMillerMusic The sound shaping capabilities may be on par or slightly more limited than Caustic 3, I didn't evaluate that part closely but focused more on how quickly I could jam out a new track/loop that sounded decent. FL Studio Mobile has built-in ducking effects and a lot of other really useful effect presets that let you get great sounding results very quickly. The benefit of having your music sketchbook with you all the time, wherever you go, is really amazing. Regarding Koala Sampler, that seems fun for someone into sampling, but I'm guessing it will be a mediocre experience on Android given its 0.2-0.3 second audio latency. On iPhone, it could be lots of fun though. But I'm assuming you're completely missing out on synthesizers, which is at least 90% of how I make my music. Maybe you're more into sampling than I am.
Gabe. Three quick thoughts 1) Patreon. Where is it? You're big enough. 2) Q&A? Again, you're big enough. Hate that, but 3) Video idea: Best groovebox-ey device SAMPLING WISE under $500.
1. I do have one, although I rarely promote it. 2. I typically try to fold questions into other videos, the Q&A format historically hasn't done very well on this channel. 3. I'm hoping the Circuit Rhythm ends up being that, but we'll see. At the moment it's probably the Roland MC-101 (or possibly the Model:Samples, but I know very little about it).
@@GabeMillerMusic thanks your videos are very informative. I'm sure you will have a video on the rythm when its available. That will help me decide between the tracks and rythm. I am a newb. But I lean towards sample based sounds.
Tracks is a lot better. The two inputs with effects/mixing are amazing - makes for a much more portable setup if you’re using external synths alongside.
I still think the OG Circuit will probably go down in history as one of the best groove boxes ever made. And I wouldn't be surprised if it becomes a sought after collectors synth in years to come.
Just bought an OG circuit for $189 USD. Not sure if that's a good price but this is my first groovebox and I'm not sure I'm good enough yet to justify the price increase for the bells and whistles i don't have enough experience to take advantage of yet.
@@FastRCToys I would say, it's different and it depends, how the quaility of the samples are loading into the drum parts and what you are using the synth parts for. For me as Synthwave producer, combining them is just perfect ;-)
I am not a big fan of the circuit: I am quite "old school" and I prefer the workflow of the roland mc101 (real display, you know). Anyway I have to say that the amount of support that novation have given to the circuit during its lifetime, in terms of firmware upgrades, is impressive and very remarkable.
Won't be ordering Circuit Tracks yet. But I will keep the original Circuit - plug it into the tracks, control it via MIDI: even more Circuit in your Circuit!
The new one is definitely more premium and professional than the OG, but I'm imagining a lot of newer producers or people newer to hardware that would still really enjoy the OG, especially if they can get into it for cheaper than the Tracks. If someone came to me and said they could get one for $250, and they didn't feel the need to expand their setup, I'd tell them to go for it.
The way I operate no I won't upgrade I don't need midi tracks I hate playing synths from pads I'm a keyboard player . I plug a controller board with 4 zones into it
The fact that you can't load OG circuit packs directly onto the CT is annoying. It certainly makes it a lot harder for Novation to justify the CT reusing the old Nova synth engine and the same effects as OG C. Hopefully they will address this via Components or Isotonik will revamp their patch store so that OG C patch packs are sold in combo packs for the CT. I'm currently saving up for a CT and am only sixty bucks off my target. I think I'll keep my OG Circuit because it still works and there's nothing wrong with it. The Circuit Rhythm sounds like an entirely different kettle of fish so I'll cross that bridge when I come to it. I've been on the look out for a hardware sequencer and the CT competes well with the Keystep Pro and Korg SQ64 - plus you get the synths and drums with the CT which you don't get with those stand-alone sequencers.
I'm guessing redesigning the entire sound engine from the ground up would take more time or jack the price up further. The Isotonik (and others) patches still work just fine with the new Circuit, so I'm taking this as an opportunity to cherry pick my favorites that have stood the test of time.
This will not happen. There are still tons of old analogue synths they have to clone. They had a concept for a sample based groovebox named "Jam". The first renderd CGI image looked pretty promising. There was even a Facebook group. It died in silence.
@@strelokknoize Just orderd a Circuit Tracks. I'm happy now. I can sequence my DX7, Model D and Crave (synced) and still have two Circuit Tracks to play with oh and drums too.
I wasn't aware of the Circuit going to be discontinued. I took a second-hand Circuit 5 months ago for around 190$ and I'm still convinced I had a good deal. Sincerely, the new Tracks resolves many of the Circuit's limitations, but I don't know if I will ever put my hands on it, maybe in a saturated market in a far future. One very strong point of the Circuit was its popularity and longevity. When I knew about the new Circuits, I thought I would likely get another original Circuit, because of the almost certain price drop. Now the situation is far more incertain, and that's a good market move of Novation, to keep things moving. We'll see how the prices will go for the original Circuit. But one thing I think it's important, especially now that the OG is discontinued: I think it would be very kind if Novation makes the OG Circuit's firmware kinda open source. As one comment here says, the Circuit's processor and OS are pretty good and flexible; there are surely other possibilities in the Circuit's firmware; if the company doesn't want to implement them, it should let the users discover them and reinvent what Novation left behind. That's my 2 pences on the subject.
Half-arsed "upgrade" that could mostly be done on the original with FW updates. They could (and should) have stepped up their game but they really haven't. And still tied to components for anything beyond knob-twiddling, so again - huge fail.
As someone said - Novation makes fools of us by not allowing the samples to be played chromatically in Circuit Tracks. Supposedly there is a workaround for this employing velocity. Also maybe some unofficial firmware will cover this. The only reason for not including chromatic sample sequecing is reaching to our wallets, pushing us to buy both Tracks and Rythm. Artificial degradation of the product. I like Circuit tracks, and the og circuit. Hope some greedy asshole in Novation will choke on my money.
I preordered a Circuit tracks for my 9 year old son for his birthday. I hope he loves it, he'll be watching your tutorials for sure!!
I hope every kid has a dad like you!😃😁🔥
Thanks for reminding me about the audio input. Processing hardware synths through the Tracks makes it a definite upgrade from my OG.
Love your videos' well presented man keep it up, I have 2 OG circuits plus the mono station, love novation gear, spent few quid on it over the years, quality :)
Awesome insight! I feel like one additional consideration when deciding between the two is the fact that the og circuit of 2021 is a far stronger instrument than when it first came out due to all the updates. If Novation keeps up with this then you have to consider that the Circuit Tracks of today may well be a far stronger instrument in 3 or 4 years
Good point!
Regarding Sound-Packs - the format of the OG's SysEx has been reversed, so we know how to go SysEx Wav. I believe that the Tracks just uses a Zip of Wav files. There should be no difficulty transferring between the two. See "circuit_samples" on GitHub.
Good kirby simile! I agree with you, it really depends if you have other synths or not. The ability to process audio and changing the midi thru to a second midi out is so cooooooool. I really like the upgrades that novation provided in the new circuit tracks. Otherwise, if you want to just jam outside and throw something in your backpack with some fresh AA batteries then I think the original ticks all the boxes.
I just picked up my OG this year because of you. I also just got a Keystep 37, I kinda wish I would’ve waited for the tracks. Oh well. I might upgrade thou.
I want the rhythm more than anything
Appreciate your honesty in terms of whether to upgrade. But Gabe, you know what vid we all are waiting for...an honest Tracks Vs. MC101 battle!🔥🔥...p.s. That kirby Reference was #barz🔥🔥🔥🤣🤣🤣
Gabe, for me the real dealbreaker on the Circuit Tracks are the 32 steps and the new sequences automation. This alone will make the Tracks more suitable to make full tracks and give more space to perform with control. I’ve always felt 16 steps makes hard to compose without step into the boring territory. Another thing is that we know Novation is gonna keek pushing updates and new features on it. Can’t wait to see what else are they dreaming about for the Circuit family on the future.
That's definitely a good quality of life update, I mentioned that in yesterday's video and will be sure to touch on it once I do a proper review. I've never found the 16 steps _too_ limiting, since you can just chain patterns and record into that chain, but having a sustained chord or bass note stretch over more than one bar without retriggering or using note tie is lovely.
great video! just in time for me to consider between the two models. I would most definitely choose the og circuit, mostly due to the fact that i dont really need extra midi tracks. also an extra 100 dollars i mean who wouldnt heh
I hesitate between the circuit, circuit tracks and circuit rhythm. I was wondering about the OG because I can have one for 160$ instead of 280$ for a circuit rhythm.
I’m thinking of getting one secondhand as well, as they’re quite affordable, just to see if I dig the workflow, then you can sell and upgrade ! Better yet, you like it so much you don’t wanna get rid of it. Might as well try!
Just picked up the OG used for around $200 which is less than half the price of Circuit Tracks where I live. Already having loads of fun with it. I'll upgrade when I feel like I need to.
Interested in your comparison video between the Circuit Tracks & the MC-101
That's on the way!
@@GabeMillerMusic Schweeeet !
Circuit is more intuitive in use , i tested mc 101 )
@@stasix2696 seems like the case with all the vids I watch, but I really love the sound design capabilities of the mc 101
Got the rhythm a few weeks ago and it’s an insane beast. Haven’t even begun to scratch the surface of this awesome box. Still have the OG because it’s an original member of the group.
Tip to buyers.....after putting in an SD card , the speed is insanely faster and response is quicker.
They don’t tell you but you CANNOT USE AN SD CARD MORE THAN 32 gigs or it will not work.
Luckily I noticed this in a reddit forum and saved the frustration of wtf.
Either choice is solid ad I have external gear and soft synths so I went with the rhythm and the awesome sample tweaking abilities.
An excellent box and really can get complex if you wish, in that good way. :)
I just ordered mine, I've never owned the og circuit so this will be a completely new xp for me, I was looking for the og circuit s few days ago and couldn't find a good deal and then the new one was announced and it's kind of a no-brainer for me
You chose correctly-Im Jellie Jel! :-)
I wanna buy the Rhythm but the battery scares me a little bit since you can't replace it. The og circuit eould be perfect but I don't know ig components works with speach synthesizers like Jaws on PC. What should I buy?
At least there is Circuit Tracks and there is even a chance that OG Circuit could get some updates. Circuit Mono Station just disappeared into nowhere.
I've always wanted a second OG I remember original being disapointed that you couldnt change midi channels, so that stopped me. Then they added firmware support but by then I was playing the laptop being the brain again. So this looks cool to me as a second unit.
Again. If you do not know. You cannot use an sd over 32 gigs.
And yes you should add one. It speeds it up insanely faster.
I'm thinking of getting a Deluge and keeping the original Circuit.
I'm so glad the OG sold out last summer then. I was trying to buy one and had trouble finding it. I would've been so pissed to have bought it only to see it ditched 6 months later. There will probably be a market flood of them now.
I bought the OG Circuit with the hopes of using it as a drum machine + synth/bass (for guitar accompaniment) but soon realized that it was firmly in the category of "groove box" because due to its limitations the patterns had to be pretty repetitive. I threw it aside hoping that Novation would eventually enable session chaining through updates (allowing less repetitive music genres). Now I'm a bit upset that I wasted my money on the OG Circuit because it will never get there. Simultaneously I'm trying to decide if I should risk it by buying the new Circuit Tracks because I'm hearing that chaining sessions is now possible. Can anyone confirm this? The sd memory and audio ins do make the new circuit much more compelling for those of us who are interested in dawless/live setups.
How does Korg electribe 2 compare or compete with circuit tracks and it’s brother? If you were to only have one which would you choose and why? Thanks so much as I already have the Korg and I’m just now finally getting to know it better and I’m wondering if I really need to get the circuit tracks or it’s sibling.
Probability + patterns improvements + sample flip improvements + memory improvements are pushing me towards an upgrade.
Please do a comparison between the Circuit Tracks and MC-101
Already planning to, that'll probably go up on Wednesday.
They seems Discontinue the mono station too, Hope a poly station, a Circuit track with a peak on it is coming
What would you say to two OGs vs 1 Tracks? Price wise that is quite similar and gives you 2 tracks for midi etc?
Hey Gabe-so I was pricing my OG circuit--Used Ones have hit Reverb for around $270 on Reverb. That said-Thank you for the video-I'm going to hold on to mine. Why? Because I haven't even taken the time to actually program/play the OG completely. It can totally compose even longform music-and you can just mute the the two synth tracks if you want to outboard to two separate hardware synthesizers-and plug them all into a mixer.
Also, I built custom racks and the Circuit Tracks doesn't have Decksaver Hard Case yet! :-)
And, Discontinued means-it's not my fault!
Finally, $400 bucks-I could actually install a dashcam and back up cam on my used car.
But anybody thinking Circuit-Get the Tracks. No really-You chose wisely! :-)
Peace, Gabe!
Im wondering if we will be getting more circuit tracks updates
OG circuit brought me through a dozen of live performances over the last years, replacing a laptop. good instrument.
Man I’m gonna miss my OG. Just now sold it
2:50 GREAT advice
Not a huge synth guy. I had an old micro Korg and sold it for a guitar Your videos peaked my interest in the circuit so I’m hoping i can get a second had OG circuit for a good price to play with.
That’s what I did. Check reverb
I wonder if you can load your OG circuit sessions onto the Circuit Tracks
You know how you can hold shift and select patterns and play them in any order? Does the new one still do this? Does each drum track only get 4 patterns with the new one instead of 8 like the synths?
Just tested this... You get 8 patterns and you can chain all 8 together. You unfortunately can't chain them out of order. You can make a pattern 32 bars long though so that should help.
@@GabeMillerMusic I mean I wish I could chain them out of order, but having the ability to make a 16 bar loop; 32 steps is basically 2 bars times 8 patterns -> 16 bars; is workable for me. I'm interested to hear more about this thing. I love my og circuit.
loved the Kirby bit doge.
Pitch bend recording? How much time to charge?
I may not upgrade because I actually use the onboard speakers
I just wish it had a little screen! I have the opz and the lack of a screen, even a tiny one, really gets frustrating.
I know people like you who use it everyday know your way around it and dont need a screen but for the weekend musician like me who only pick up their music hobby gear once and a while im constantly having to re-learn button press combos and menus and it gets really old 🤷♂️
I have an OP-Z too and I disagree about the screen. The problem with the OP-Z is that everything is so overloaded and nothing is labeled. I’ve ordered a Circuit Tracks and I expect it to be much easier to use (Gabe certainly helped get me interested in the Circuit mindset). And the lack of screen helps keep things visible on the surface - unlike the MC-101 for example.
And I want to add that I adore the OP-Z, I just end up spending more time figuring out how to use it, and fixing the things I've messed up by hitting the wrong combination of buttons, than actually making music…
It probably just takes a lot of time using it to get used to its interface. I'm having a similar reaction to my Polyend Tracker, even though it has a screen. lol. I do realize there isn't anything I can do other than keep putting it to use until I get comfortable with it. One of the "benefits" is that it's driven me back to extensive guitar playing and practice, while I figure out how to approch the Tracker. :-)
For me, fixed parameters on the controls is a major upgrade. It's very frustrating trying to figure out what the knobs are doing on each different sound with the OG. 32 steps is a nice upgrade if the circuit is your only box or your centre piece. I am disappointed that they took the speaker off, that was a special touch and taking it off (for me) puts the emphasis away from the couch or the campfire and back into the studio. The new circuit will (initially) push the price of the OG down so if I was starting out I would go for the OG. I wont be selling mine for a while (if at all) and at £360 the new one faces some serious (more heavyweight) competition, especially in the second hand market.
tried to transfer a stock patch from tracks into OG and failed...
I guess, all or most of the software (firmware) changes - they could migrate to the OG Circuit as well - after all, it's just a CPU with all the controls and peripherals around it - the peripherals are a bit different - the battery, sd drive, more midi, audio inputs, etc, but the controls are exactly the same, so the question is the CPU. If it's powerful enough, many features (e.g. eight track, 4 independent drum tracks, better interface for the drums, etc) of the Tracks could go to the OG too. I still hope they'll do something about it.
They are already there-except for the sample time on the OG-it's just 60 seconds. The Tracks just nukes that with the SD card. Since the synth engines are the same-the CPU is probably equivalent. All the new output/Input options on the tracks nuke the OG from orbit. :-)
Considering I bought my og back in june of 2020, it was kinda bittersweet for sure. Wish I could of saved up for a little while longer. But honestly had a little thing happened where novation sent me a tracks for free. So I’m thankful for that
What happened that they sent you another for free?
@@manifestomode1 Threw it against the tree and blamed it on my neighbors hating on my sounds 😭😭😭😭
@@manifestomode1 Na tho I had a warranty but when I went to get the warranty thru, they said they no longer make the OGs. So I sent my original back and they sent a tracks. I had 2 OGs sn only one now. Sold the tracks kuz I got a DAW and a midi controller(s).......I basically just use the circuit to make ideas and then midi them into Ableton
Didn't they make the drum patterns shortwr
The thing most people don't realize about an internal rechargeable battery is that it's usually the first part to fail, just like in your phone. This might shorten the lifespan of the product. Although only time will tell.
True that, it's definitely a concern. I wonder how hard it would be to open the unit and replace the battery.
I personally hate integrated batteries. I'd prefer it with no battery at all. Shame because I really like the Circuit UI.
OnTheRoad the OG circuit has no internal battery. But the MPC one is my favorite.
@@healthyhappyhero I know. It uses regular AA batteries. But the capability to control external devices is improved in the new model. The MPC One seems great. I don't like AKAI much though.
OG won't RIP for me 🙂
Circuit Tracks - Is it possible to have two different packs on one machine and jump between them? Delorian Dream and Vapor for example. Jump between synths and samples
You can! It's not instantaneous, but the Circuit Tracks (and the Rhythm as well) can store multiple packs. You still can't load samples into the synth slots though.
@@GabeMillerMusic thank you. That is great
The OG Looks more solid it stays put on my work surface which I is something I like. It makes me think it’s maybe sturdier than the new one . I haven’t held the new one so this could just be a silly opinion based on my eyes. (Two questions) Does it slide around when you are playing it? How much better are the new pads?
Yeah I'd say so. It feels a bit more solid, and the thinness, the finish, and the pads make it feel like it's a lot more expensive than it is. The pads remind me more of the Maschine plus/mk3... They're a little bit than the OG bigger, have a slightly higher amount of resistance (still very comfortable to play), and they ditched the rounded off corners. Although I've never had problems with my gear sliding around.
Looks like the Mono Station is discontinued as well...
I'm kind of excited that the OG Circuit has been discontinued. I already have one. I love it. I will be keeping it and may even pick up some clearance/discount used units for daisy chaining, just because.
Prolly gonna pick up both the Tracks and Rhythm, though, because the OG is so, so good.
I'd rather have a circuit pro than a circuit light. I'd pay 707 money for a circuit with Oxford oscillators, individual outs etc.
Definitely fair. I'm imagining a Circuit lite would be good for people just getting into music production or hardware, who maybe don't need the advanced features of the Tracks. But at the moment, it looks like the OG has jumped in to fulfill that purpose.
I gave up waiting for a circuit pro and grabbed the 707. No regrets, with all the limitations the circuit has long forgotten, and seems Novation aren't interested in resolving them with this facelift update. Looks great though for controlling several external devices, if that's your thing.
@@thisisbradelaide I bought a launchpad pro mk3 to fill that gap a while ago. I have found myself using the launchpad more than the circuit these days, but I've got lots of synthesizers, so I don't really bother with the Nova engine elements of the OG circuit any more. I think I probably will have to buy a 707, I'd been holding off until the tracks was released, but now that there is next to no value in upgrading I'll have to go to another manufacturer. On the fence between an Octatrack and the MC707.
@@thisisbradelaide Why not an mpc instead of the 707?
@@difflocktwo Not performance-oriented enough
I would use it just to get away from a computer screen and for inspiration, but eventually connect back to Logic to finish off track. That's doable? The OG Circuit is around $250 now. Could also let my 9 yo son play around with it. Just not sure about lack of future updates could mess up working with it in Logic?
Yeah that should be totally doable if you record midi into Logic with either Circuit, and updates wouldn't hinder that. I did a whole video on the process:
ua-cam.com/video/f-93uwDyDbo/v-deo.html
so Gabe, your next videos will all be performed on circuit tracks, or you will continue to use the og circuit in the future? and why?
I'll keep using both, but I'm putting a heavy emphasis on the new one. Partially because it's super exciting for me, and because I want to take advantage of the momentum it has to drive traffic to the channel. But I'll revisit the OG from time to time, I definitely won't ever get rid of it.
I'm mostly only interested in the Rhythm. But that's because it seems more like an SP 404 with a better sequencer, velocity, and actual pitch control. And if it's also 400, when Roland is still selling the SP for 550 new? Forget about it
I've been looking at the circuit for some months and because of the costs I've tried to make music with programs like fl studio. But I just don't find it that fun and I think that having a hands on machine would make it way more fun. But it's hard to justify the costs so if anyone has any opinions on if I should get one or keep trying fl studio plz let me know.
Get into dawless. I became bored of DAWs and computers. Then bought a circuit 2 years ago and it all has been fun and a rediscovery of a passion
@@MonitusMusic alright man, I guess that's all I needed to hear. Thanks👍
This type of gear is partially aimed at getting instant gratification, but essentially its not.
For example, I use Yamaha QY 700 - very slow and bulky machine. Very complex too. If anything it slows you down and FL is QUICK. By slowing down, hitting machine limits and doing every change matter ( because doing every operation takes time ) does change quality of my songwriting. Now every note counts. Harmonies are not thrown together last minute , but worked out. I could do same with software, essentially, but you have to have focus and experience other workflows.
Might be winning an OG for well under 100 GBP, as I want the simpler scratchpad-fun setup combined with my circuit mono…
…will update if maybe turns into definitely 👍
Didn’t win the other OG, but just got another one for…
…101 - close enough 😂
Re: 1:20 - the number of watchers AND people viewing the ‘uncommon’ OG auctions is very very high: well above other gear auctions I’ve seen lately.
In direct contrast, the auctions for the tracks & rhythm, are relatively low by comparison.
Nearly 100 viewers in 24hrs, and over 60 watchers…
…not as many bidders.
My analysis is that folks have a ‘fondness’ for the OG, it definitely has earned its spot in the cultural history of music-making
Knowing all the pet peeves that can get discovered, I would highly recommend anyone to just get the Tracks.
Yup! Get the new one-Gabe's workarounds all these years have been genius. :-)
Given your desire for minimalist setup, I'm curious why you haven't reviewed FL Studio Mobile yet (I saw your Caustic 3 videos but that app is not being maintained and, in my opinion, way inferior to FL Studio Mobile). I just tried it this weekend and I'm simply blown away. Literally a tiny little DAW in your pocket that is always available, connects with your bluetooth earpods of choice, and has virtually limitless tracks and a super quick workflow that you figure out after a 10 minute tutorial/RTFM session. To sweeten the deal, it lets you export your individual track stems in wav/flac format along with midi so you can finish the track off in your proper DAW of choice. After being so close to picking up an MC-101 or Circuit Tracks based on your many videos, I thought I'd share this tip in case you had completely missed this little gem. It easily produces higher quality music than any of the available hardware grooveboxes out there IMHO, much thanks to it being, essentially, a proper DAW. Here's a quick track I put together in less than two hours. I intend to use this app as a music sketchpad (that's why I was looking at your groovebox videos). After using this for a couple of days, honestly the price tag of less than $20 makes it very difficult to even consider paying north of $450 for a hardware groovebox that is way more limited in almost every aspect, except for the immediacy of the hands-on hardware (and, for the Roland MCs, the amazing sound bank).
ua-cam.com/video/chkciE0Fpuc/v-deo.html
Tbh I tried it a couple of years ago and it didn't do much for me in terms of the interface and what seemed like limited sound shaping. I should definitely give it a go again though.
One app that I _have_ been messing around with is Koala Sampler, which is really fun and hands on.
@@GabeMillerMusic The sound shaping capabilities may be on par or slightly more limited than Caustic 3, I didn't evaluate that part closely but focused more on how quickly I could jam out a new track/loop that sounded decent. FL Studio Mobile has built-in ducking effects and a lot of other really useful effect presets that let you get great sounding results very quickly. The benefit of having your music sketchbook with you all the time, wherever you go, is really amazing.
Regarding Koala Sampler, that seems fun for someone into sampling, but I'm guessing it will be a mediocre experience on Android given its 0.2-0.3 second audio latency. On iPhone, it could be lots of fun though. But I'm assuming you're completely missing out on synthesizers, which is at least 90% of how I make my music. Maybe you're more into sampling than I am.
Gabe. Three quick thoughts
1) Patreon. Where is it? You're big enough.
2) Q&A? Again, you're big enough.
Hate that, but 3) Video idea: Best groovebox-ey device SAMPLING WISE under $500.
1. I do have one, although I rarely promote it.
2. I typically try to fold questions into other videos, the Q&A format historically hasn't done very well on this channel.
3. I'm hoping the Circuit Rhythm ends up being that, but we'll see. At the moment it's probably the Roland MC-101 (or possibly the Model:Samples, but I know very little about it).
Have you tried connecting the OG with the new version?
Not yet, it's on my list of things to try
Was getting ready to order an og trying to see what the rythm is all about.
It's not out yet, and as far as I know, reviewers either don't have demo units or can't talk about them. You'll be waiting until summer, I believe
@@GabeMillerMusic thanks your videos are very informative. I'm sure you will have a video on the rythm when its available. That will help me decide between the tracks and rythm. I am a newb. But I lean towards sample based sounds.
Just a bit more expensive?
In Germany they charge 389 € for the Tracks. I've paid 279 € for my (new) OG Circuit back then.
Dang that's a much steeper difference than here in the US.
sounds like a money grab. will they still continue firmware upgrades on the og so the two are cross compatible?
Tracks is a lot better. The two inputs with effects/mixing are amazing - makes for a much more portable setup if you’re using external synths alongside.
I still think the OG Circuit will probably go down in history as one of the best groove boxes ever made. And I wouldn't be surprised if it becomes a sought after collectors synth in years to come.
Just bought an OG circuit for $189 USD. Not sure if that's a good price but this is my first groovebox and I'm not sure I'm good enough yet to justify the price increase for the bells and whistles i don't have enough experience to take advantage of yet.
That's the lowest price I've heard of, congrats!
@@vertigev its used though not new. Great condition though, box and contents and everything.
Crazy good price, it's about $250 and up easy
@@stanfordtho used though? Or new?
@@yes0genesis Yup, I understood that. That's a ridiculous price :)
I have already upgraded for a... MC101 ! And my circuit is collecting dust now...
I use both of them in daily music production. Circuit OG and MC-101 match perfectly together :-)
@@80iesDude45 The quality of sound coming from the Circuit (low end mininova) is poor compared to the zen core engine of the MC101...
@@FastRCToys I would say, it's different and it depends, how the quaility of the samples are loading into the drum parts and what you are using the synth parts for. For me as Synthwave producer, combining them is just perfect ;-)
Bought a circuit in sept 2020... kinda feeling like I screwed myself....
Man... I bought one in September also. Feel ya...
I am not a big fan of the circuit: I am quite "old school" and I prefer the workflow of the roland mc101 (real display, you know).
Anyway I have to say that the amount of support that novation have given to the circuit during its lifetime, in terms of firmware upgrades, is impressive and very remarkable.
Won't be ordering Circuit Tracks yet. But I will keep the original Circuit - plug it into the tracks, control it via MIDI: even more Circuit in your Circuit!
Hey man I heard you like Circuit. So now we got a Circuit so you can Circuit while you Circuit.
"Kirby in the smash games"
You mean Kirby from the Kirby games?
i won't upgrade, will just order Tracks, should be nice pair with OG.
just got my circuit for $112! was very lucky.
Niceeeeee
The new one is just so much better I wouldn’t buy the oG one at this point, unless you can get it for $150 but for me no.
The new one is definitely more premium and professional than the OG, but I'm imagining a lot of newer producers or people newer to hardware that would still really enjoy the OG, especially if they can get into it for cheaper than the Tracks. If someone came to me and said they could get one for $250, and they didn't feel the need to expand their setup, I'd tell them to go for it.
My OG isn’t going anywhere.
The way I operate no I won't upgrade I don't need midi tracks I hate playing synths from pads I'm a keyboard player . I plug a controller board with 4 zones into it
The fact that you can't load OG circuit packs directly onto the CT is annoying. It certainly makes it a lot harder for Novation to justify the CT reusing the old Nova synth engine and the same effects as OG C. Hopefully they will address this via Components or Isotonik will revamp their patch store so that OG C patch packs are sold in combo packs for the CT. I'm currently saving up for a CT and am only sixty bucks off my target. I think I'll keep my OG Circuit because it still works and there's nothing wrong with it. The Circuit Rhythm sounds like an entirely different kettle of fish so I'll cross that bridge when I come to it. I've been on the look out for a hardware sequencer and the CT competes well with the Keystep Pro and Korg SQ64 - plus you get the synths and drums with the CT which you don't get with those stand-alone sequencers.
I'm guessing redesigning the entire sound engine from the ground up would take more time or jack the price up further. The Isotonik (and others) patches still work just fine with the new Circuit, so I'm taking this as an opportunity to cherry pick my favorites that have stood the test of time.
I'm holding out for the Behringer clone.
That would be great. Two FM synths and the ability to sample/midi loop from the stereo audio inputs and store to an SD card.
This will not happen. There are still tons of old analogue synths they have to clone. They had a concept for a sample based groovebox named "Jam".
The first renderd CGI image looked pretty promising. There was even a Facebook group. It died in silence.
@@strelokknoize Just orderd a Circuit Tracks. I'm happy now. I can sequence my DX7, Model D and Crave (synced) and still have two Circuit Tracks to play with oh and drums too.
Poor kirby "from the smash games". Used to be a star of his own, now a b-lister expanding the cast list for his more famous peers
No upg..
I wasn't aware of the Circuit going to be discontinued. I took a second-hand Circuit 5 months ago for around 190$ and I'm still convinced I had a good deal. Sincerely, the new Tracks resolves many of the Circuit's limitations, but I don't know if I will ever put my hands on it, maybe in a saturated market in a far future. One very strong point of the Circuit was its popularity and longevity.
When I knew about the new Circuits, I thought I would likely get another original Circuit, because of the almost certain price drop. Now the situation is far more incertain, and that's a good market move of Novation, to keep things moving. We'll see how the prices will go for the original Circuit. But one thing I think it's important, especially now that the OG is discontinued: I think it would be very kind if Novation makes the OG Circuit's firmware kinda open source. As one comment here says, the Circuit's processor and OS are pretty good and flexible; there are surely other possibilities in the Circuit's firmware; if the company doesn't want to implement them, it should let the users discover them and reinvent what Novation left behind.
That's my 2 pences on the subject.
Was going to ask why O.G ..I was like so not gangster but then I realised Original Groovebox. But I'm blaming triggered society. Lol
I don't think it's worth of an upgrade... More like... More value for first time buyers
Half-arsed "upgrade" that could mostly be done on the original with FW updates.
They could (and should) have stepped up their game but they really haven't.
And still tied to components for anything beyond knob-twiddling, so again - huge fail.
As someone said - Novation makes fools of us by not allowing the samples to be played chromatically in Circuit Tracks. Supposedly there is a workaround for this employing velocity. Also maybe some unofficial firmware will cover this. The only reason for not including chromatic sample sequecing is reaching to our wallets, pushing us to buy both Tracks and Rythm. Artificial degradation of the product. I like Circuit tracks, and the og circuit. Hope some greedy asshole in Novation will choke on my money.