I'm surprised devices like this aren't more popular and common. After working at my computer all day it would be great to actually get the hell away from my computer to make some music in the evening.
I’ve had my Circuit for almost 3 years and in that time I can honestly say I use my DAW (Ableton) 80% less. It’s just so addictive to use and It’s great that you aren’t just staring at a screen.
@Tony Montana I haven't gotten one yet. Right now I'm not buying more gear. I'm leaning more into my current setup. From the videos and reviews it seems like the sequencing and sampling capabilities are more straightforward vs. the SP and they cover a lot of the same ground. I would get it if I wanted to move more hardware vs. the Koala app.
@@fernandomercado5519Unfortunately mono sampling and fastly shorter sampling time kill any chances for the 404 and Rhythm to be fairly compared, they're definitely separate products
You should definitely try the Electribe sampler. Time stretching is a pain, but that's why I use my DAW first to audition, time stretch and pitch correct everything before bringing it to the hardware.
Had a circuit for about 2 weeks having been inspired by youtube. Best purchase I have made since I returned to making music as an old fart. Should be no surprise that the I have the Model:Cycles on my list of gear. I dug out my old Electribe ES1 and with that and the Circuit I have all my sampling needs catered for ATM, hence the lust for strange FM sounds.
Always love your videos. You are too good on each of these devices for me to decide what to get! Electribe 2 seems cool to shape sounds but Tracks seems more fun and really I will only ever be tinkering.
Great video! I would say that the Model:Cycles is geared more toward glitchy IDM style music in the style of Cylob and early Autechre. Other styles of music can be made with it, but it excels at that with its FM engine. Circuit is much more versatile when it comes to style.
3:52 Sorry that I'm apparently too old for being allowed in electronic music 😢 That said, you're absolutely right: Circuit is currently not even half the price of Ableton Push (not including Ableton Suite!) and I also find myself reaching for it more, for its immediacy and simplicity. Getting an idea down - nothing beats the Novation Circuit.
Recently picked up a Korg Electribe Sampler 2 with hardcase for £180. Talk about a game changer! Thoroughly recommended if you're looking to add more esoteric elements to your regular sound.
Enjoyed the video. And got a laugh at your comment ~4 min mark; “If you are a millennial or gen-z and you like creating EDM electronic music...” This 62 year young Baby-boomer was creating EDM waaaay back in 1976 on a Roland sh3a and then a System 100 modular. Some old folks can get our groove on daily : )
Hell yeah, that's awesome. I definitely target viewers my age or slightly younger, but I'm really glad that people like you stick around and seem to dig the videos. I definitely intend to keep my taste for dance music and heavy electronic music intact as I get older so that's an inspiration!
That's awesome. I'm 52 and watched this video for info on what drum machine to start with for live looping. Electronic music i way older than most people realize, and i'm getting more into it as i get older.
@@GabeMillerMusic Thanks for making this video. Your vids are really clear and helpful. I'm researching to buy my first 'drum machine' to use with a live looping set-up. You just got a new 52 year old subscriber :-)
I forgot to link the video about "multitrack" Circuit, so here it is: ua-cam.com/video/OzXLsmDK4rE/v-deo.html Also, the focus of this video was hardware, but if you want to make music on the go without buying dedicated gear, apps like Caustic (iOS and Android) or Auxy (iOS) are great.
Auxy is not much good example with it's subscription model and lot of limitations .. If you want dive deep into iOS, check stulff like Novation Groovebox, GrooverRider GR-16, Korg Electribe Wave, Drambo, Pure Acid (when you're searching for grooveboxes), or Nanostudio 2, Korg Gadget, Cubasis, Beatmaker 3, Auria Pro (when you are searchning for complete DAW/production tools) ... Or if you want go insane modular then miRack :-) ...and then of course synth plugins like Zeeon, Synthmaster One, Moog Model D, Moog Model 15, iSEM, ShockWave and many many more ... If you want get just brief overview check for example this channel : ua-cam.com/users/JakobHaq
Dont forget the most hated akai rythem wolf.I found hooking up a zoom multi effexts pedal to the akai rythem wolf rocks it really makes it pop so if you have a rythem wolf in the junk door pull it out and hook up some effects pedals to it as it brings it to life hands down.
The Volca sample has just been updated with better I/O and more memory. It sits, in price, right between the PO and Circuit. I haven’t played with it though.
The E2S (Electribe 2 Sampler) is the hub of my all hardware setup as a 16 track MIDI sequencer. Haven't tried a Circuit yet, but absolutely love Novation. Not even sure if the Circuit can sequence MIDI. 🎼 💿
Love your work Gabe, both your music and your content A+ !!! When I was looking for a standalone box I was considering the electribe and the circuit, I chose the electribe, mainly because it has more channels (I make synthwave/sound tracks and need at least 3 channels, bass, lead/synth and pad). 100% agree on the lofi nature of the electribe and the nice hands on programming of sounds. I started making patterns and came up with very cool stuff, then I started going deeper and deeper, the step sequencer has good and bad things, got used to it, but what broke me was trying to make a song on this, you make a song by chaining patterns and when you move from one pattern to the next you hear the transition (sound cut off) I heard the master of the electribe, mistabishi, he has definitely found a way to mask these transitions, I would guess using reverbs and wise sound choices, but it just irritated the crap out of me so I sold it, bought an iPad, Korg gadget plus a few of Korg's synths and just never looked back. its so easy to work with and the results are amazing (you probably think I'm a Korg guy, but I'm not, I actually more of Roland/Yamaha user). I also used Caustic which I saw you used and got some good results, I feel the sound quality of the Korg is better, I just wish Roland would make something like the Gadget or some AU synths, because the combination of Korg and Roland synths would be almost perfect. Hearing you talking about the circuit makes me think about picking up one when I can find one in a reasonable price as people these days have gone kind of mad and try to sell you used stuff for prices of new. Anyhow, interesting to see what you can do with an iPad and Korg Gadget. Thanks for all the wonderful work
I'll definitely add the Gadget to the list of stuff to try out. I've been getting back into the world of apps lately, especially Caustic (which really comes to life if you load in custom sounds). These days, I like to export Electribe tracks as WAV files then mix them from there, as opposed to live jamming. That gives me more control and allows me to make a much more polished track. And I personally still really enjoy the tactile nature of groovebox music production. But tablet/phone music production has really gotten good, which is awesome to see, and it's dope that you've found something that clicks for you!
@@GabeMillerMusic thanks for the reply Gabe, I use the korg nanokey studio controller with gadget, it has 8 knobs + 8 pads and integrates very well with it. The only drawback for me is that it has a 2 octave keyboard (I actually dig the plastic keys) and I want at least 4 octaves to play chord sequences, so have another portable 4 octave, that is probably because of the size. maybe one day I'll get that small 4 octave Bluetooth keyboard korg sells, it is just overprice imho. Oh, and I actually discovered that there is a TAL U NO LX version for iPad which is a great clone of the Roland Juno 60, so will try to see how that plays with gadget.
If you want to hardcore avoid the computer, it might be worth getting one of the new Novation Circuits... They can both hold multiple packs, so you could theoretically dump a bunch of packs onto either and call it a day, or you can even sample directly into the Circuit Rhythm (although note that it's monophonic).
Thanks so much for the upload. I’ve been hesitating buying a circuit that long they’ve upgraded it. Can’t decide between the circuit tracks and the electribes . I want to make 70’s sounding dub reggae and trip hop. Probably end up buying both of them eventually.
@@jambutty2218 i dunno mate... i think im gonna buy electribe2 instead. cant export to ableton instanly is kinda deal breaker for me. but, im happy for you! dont forget to have fun, thanks for ur insight
@@banihafidhandrayu9145 I’m an absolute beginner. I find I have more control and get actual tunes made. With Caustic 3 the only DAW I can get my head around. Than I do with the tracks. Which is good for jamming with myself. My instruments are guitar and mandolin. I started making electronic music, because I have moved into a flat that doesn’t have good sound insulation. So in the evenings I can be as loud as I like and work at any time with electronic instruments.
I’d really be interested in your trying out the Cycles. It’s more like the Electribe in terms of sound design from scratch and lots of tracks and more like the Circuit in terms of workflow in some ways but then powerful and unique and fun in others . . . conditional trigs are awesome!
Try the MC-101. Almost everyone (except this guy) agrees that it sounds leaps and bounds better than the circuit or the tribe. It's got the famous ACB engines in it which are the most accurate recreations of analog short of an completely sample-based plugin.
I do punk /industrial I really liked the first electribe with the vacuum tubes traded it for pa gear now i wish I hadn't probably get the electribe 2 thanks for a cool video very helpfull
I mainly use Ableton/NI when at the home studio but take my Roland sp404 everywhere. I wish Roland would bring us what they promised in the sp-606 or sp-808 into a new portable unit. I can't exactly carry my mv-8800 around with me
I picked up the tribe2sampler some time ago. I dont like the workflow BUT it just does so much. Sampling, loading samples some sound design, sequencing external synths. If it just had multiple outputs it would be a true studio swiss army knife
In this case, that's from the preset pack by Tom Cosm, but it's a very popular bass design technique known as a "reese," where two sounds are slightly out of pitch from each other, which creates that warble. Then a bunch of distortion and filter effects are added on top.
No Elektron Model Samples??.. it is is close competition with Circuit and Electribe but has an awesome sequencer and is great to play live...I have all three and the EMS probably gets the most use these days, the only downside is the lack of a synth but it can be faked.
Thanks bro was looking for some input on my buying.. I have a po33 wish some one would of mentioned saving track to mp3 is more complicated ... Would like to hear how circuit hiphop sounds
I purchased an MC-101 because I wanted something small and battery operated that I can create hip-hop beats to scratch to. I have found it very difficult to learn, but I've come across your tutorials and I will be watching them. that beat at 11:08 is fire (as they say)
Korg Kaossilator,.... brilliant what you can do with that... also highly recommend the newly released Artiphon ORBA..cheap too. I have the Circuit but find it a bit restrictive... you can do a lot with it but the lack of buttons and the need to remember tons of button/pad combinations to enable/activate certain menu based functions can be daunting for new users. Best Korg electribe is the EMX-1 by a mile.. however not a portable groovebox.
What device do tou recommend me to connect my akai mini mk3 to a boss rc500 loop pedal, and brings to the akai power and sounds? I see that you say that the ciecuit doesnt but the roland 101 can be, I don't know if can connect to a boss rc500 loop pedal... And, if exist a cheaoer solution with good quality and variety of sounds and effects..
So, I am looking into using a portable, stand-alone, sound device for simple voice responses and questions. My mom is going into surgery on her vocal cords and I'm trying to find a device that she can use to help her communicate while leading up to and recovering from her surgery. Do you have any suggestions on a device that could be used in that fashion that is simple to use? Thank you.
The PO 33 is a fun toy to carry around while traveling and it you can definitely do some interesting tunes with it but you need to invest in something better if you wanna make proper production. The Novation Circuit seems to be the most VFM option but to me it just sounds too digital.. its sound doesn't seem to have that extra something.. SP404 MKII is also a very tempting new entry in that list.. especially if they keep working on firmware updates it will be one of the most versatile instruments out there
Gabe Miller Music - I own the Electribe 2 and the Electribe Sampler. The Electribe 2 is my favorite of the two. Of all the options you have shown, the Electribe 2 is the over all stand out. While you will run into voice count limitations as a sound module, however, using the Electribe 2 still Reigns supreme as a sequencing midi controller for your daw or iOS. Connected to AUM or DAW for iOS you can have the Electribe 2 control and sequence 16 tracks all at once. Creating patterns is dead easy. Plus you have built in groove or rhythm templates. Also it was designed to work with Korg Gadget and Electribe wave for iOS. The Electribe 2 is a work horse. Old, yes, but to me it is a shame when newer midi controllers cant sequence more than 4 tracks on an iPad Pro. Yet this old dinosaur can out perform midi controllers of today.
I was looking for the link you talked about at 7.35mins? I agree circuit all the way, and once you have 1 PO you probably would get a few then your in the circuit price range for a used unit or on when they are on sale i think mine was £218 on sale, and i have 3 POs so that's £180 there. Interestingly the MC-707 even if its large and costs more seems to be better value for money that the MC-101, still both cool units.
Yep, that's it, I totally forgot to link it. The 707 is definitely a cool unit, and seeing it in action makes some of the quirks of the 101 make sense... It's definitely less portable though
For what its worth, as of jan 2023 the mc101 is 495$ on amazon and the mv1 is only 499$ 🎉😮 so only a 5$ difference and still under 500$ if anyones interested.
$899 USD But seriously the best instrument I've ever bought. The developer is a genius and with regular major updates the Deluge grows even better. Drum machine, synth, sampler, looper, incredible workflow, battery powered, usb charge or 9v wallwart. I haven't touched my Circuit since buying the Deluge. It's a desert island dream device. If it's within your budget it's one purchase you will never regret that makes more expensive devices look act sound like mere toys.
@@lifeurge These words lift my spirit (and my wallet) for my Deluge is somewhere between Los Angeles and my house as we speak. I can't wait to get my hands on it. I've poured over Circuit videos for a while but I felt it would be too limiting. So I paid the extra money for the Deluge+hard cover+manual. I am hopeful my purchase will not be in vain.
@@bose5160 Congratulations Robert. I'm certain you will be blown away by your new Deluge. While you're waiting for it to arrive, watch as many videos as you can and join the open Facebook group and you'll hit the ground running. The Deluge is easy to understand and the workflow will have you creating tracks within minutes. I recommend the Synthdawg manual, which you can also download as a free PDF. Don't be overwhelmed by the level of detail in it. Most of the functions you need are printed as shortcuts on the front panel and you'll find your way around in no time. The Deluge is a beautiful creation that is a joy to play with and every player finds their own style. The fact that you can load it to the hilt with your own sample, then chop, distort, effect and modify them and use them as oscillators means you basically have an unlimited sound palette. The included synth and kit presets will also keep you happy and are infinitely tweakable on their own. Robert, your creativity and happiness levels are about to multiply exponentially. Congratulations in advance for making one of the wisest buying decisions you'll never regret! The Deluge is still extremely rare on the second hand market, but should you ever change your mind and wish to sell it, they hold their price exceptionally well. There is no way to lose and nothing to regret. Enjoy your Deluge bro!!!
This video shows some of the possibilities, but not his best work. ua-cam.com/video/wxiwJ_kptMo/v-deo.html This track is further along in the learning curve. ua-cam.com/video/9EfOfd_s4f0/v-deo.html Here's an example of sampling by someone else only a few days in with their Deluge. ua-cam.com/video/nxO4j4YOstU/v-deo.html
I’ve been looking for a drum machine ,where I don’t have to use my laptop,that I can incorporate into a live RNB band setting that has drum samples that I can loop and manipulate while playing guitar and singing. If you have any recommendations I would love to hear them since I don’t know really where to look
likin the elect 2 !!!! depends on whats ur music I guess. I have a roland d2 and a ndlr. and a er-1 which I dont likeand is gettin sold although the new 40 buck option to reload samples is interesting.
I have a question - with the circuit or the roland - : can I record in real time some drums that I play without sequencing anything, just single sounds of drums, like if I was a real drummer, making it all myself in real time without caring about perfect timing - real time jamming whatever comes to my mind, and record it that way? I hate sequencing, because it sounds too much like techno. Can I do that with these machines?
After buying the Electribe 2 Sampler first right after release and now I bought the Synth version a month or so back I can say I really like the Synth version better. The sampling capabilities aren’t great and they usually have LOTS of background noise if you use internal sampling. Plus the Synth has tweakable overdrive baked into all the drum sounds and tons of filters. $200 for the E2 Synth is hard to beat.
I’m struggling to understand Sequencers vs Samplers vs Grooveboxes (combo of both?). Do any of the Arturia Keystep or Beatstep range fit into the category of what’s featured in this video?
Late reply but... A sequencer (keystep) does not contain its own sounds. It cannot produce sound on its own. It is used to trigger sounds on other harware or software. A groovebox is similar in that u create a sequence on it, but it DOES contain its own sounds. It may or may not be able to sequence or play external gear/software. A sampler is a device that can record a sound and play it back. Its ez to get this confused w a sample player which can play original sound that are loaded into it via sd card or software, but doesn actually record the original sound source. Some gooveboxes MAY have all these functions which can add to the confusion. Examples from this vid and ur comment: The electribe 2 sampler is 1 such device that does all these things. The po33 can record sounds and sequence its onboard sounds, but cant sequence other devices or load original sounds onto it (to my knowledge at least). The keystep only sequences or plays other devices. Nothing else.
If never trade my E2s for the synth version, mainly as it's the only true sampler I have. I tend to use the Circuit for base drums and chords, the electribe for capturing film and TV and environmental samples, and the volca sample for some custom drums and weird textures
Can’t want for the (imminent?) release of the Circuit Mk2. Hopefully they hit the features you mention in the video, like multitrack export. What about the higher-end Elektron sequencers, like the Digitone and Digitakt - have you had the chance to work with them at all?
Are any of these actually able to "record" in the classic sense of recording real time, live, human performances by using microphones... and if so how many tracks? Or, are all of them just able to record interfaced keystroke/sample trigger events and have no real, live recording capability (real time/live vocals, guitar, acoustic drum set, etc,?
Havent watched yet but Is there a beat machine that i can use to make beats and record vocals all in one machine??? Id prefer not to have to have a computer set up but dont know if that exists lol.
Are these all standalone in the aspect that you don't have to hook them up to a computer to generate sounds or anything? I'm looking for something where I don't need a computer for anything, sounds already built-in but trying to find the right one for a good price.
Confucius he say man with four grooveboxes no finish track. Had the PO-33 for three days before I sold it. I wasn't feeling the workflow. I wasn't feeling the 10 bit sampling rate either. But mainly, I didn't want to place a bet on how quickly the battery clip would break off. Such poor build quality. Love my Circuit though. Also, SO many firmware updates adding new features. Just a brilliant piece of kit.
My track record says otherwise, I put out a LOT of music. That's fair, although in the Pocket Operator line's defense, I've left one in a backpack for like a month and it still works perfectly, no issues. And yeah the Circuit is brilliant.
thank you so much, you get straight to the point and your video is really helpful. the only thing i didn't get why you ignore the volca series, i think they are almost at the same league with PO's
Glad you dig the video! I didn't mention the Volcas because from what I've seen, they're typically best when coupled with other gear, or when recorded in layers. The closest to standalone would probably be the Sample, but IMO the PO-33 is a bit more powerful and approachable.
I'm surprised devices like this aren't more popular and common. After working at my computer all day it would be great to actually get the hell away from my computer to make some music in the evening.
Agreed! I hope I can be a part of getting people interested in them
What makes you think these things are not popular..?
A few years later - still growing trend
Man your channel is still one of the best.. you don't waste our time and always have straight forward and useful advice/information 🙏🏻
I’ve had my Circuit for almost 3 years and in that time I can honestly say I use my DAW (Ableton) 80% less. It’s just so addictive to use and It’s great that you aren’t just staring at a screen.
Circuit has been a blessing to me as well. Got me back into making music after all these years
Thanks for more confirmation. I’ve been holding off buying one. That long they’ve upgraded. I really want to get away from staring at a screen.
Thanks for that comment
Agreed with the list. I'd also throw in the SP-404s. So good for standalone creativity.
Hyped for the Circuit Rhythm. It has fx so hopefully it’ll be an SP killer
@Tony Montana I haven't gotten one yet. Right now I'm not buying more gear. I'm leaning more into my current setup.
From the videos and reviews it seems like the sequencing and sampling capabilities are more straightforward vs. the SP and they cover a lot of the same ground. I would get it if I wanted to move more hardware vs. the Koala app.
@@fernandomercado5519Unfortunately mono sampling and fastly shorter sampling time kill any chances for the 404 and Rhythm to be fairly compared, they're definitely separate products
This is the review i have been waiting for .....thanks a lot man !!!!!
Great Video - I like the Overview including your other videos - helps compare the sounds of the grooveboxs without digging through 20 videos
You should definitely try the Electribe sampler. Time stretching is a pain, but that's why I use my DAW first to audition, time stretch and pitch correct everything before bringing it to the hardware.
The Electribe is a killer when you know how to use it
Had a circuit for about 2 weeks having been inspired by youtube. Best purchase I have made since I returned to making music as an old fart. Should be no surprise that the I have the Model:Cycles on my list of gear. I dug out my old Electribe ES1 and with that and the Circuit I have all my sampling needs catered for ATM, hence the lust for strange FM sounds.
Always love your videos. You are too good on each of these devices for me to decide what to get! Electribe 2 seems cool to shape sounds but Tracks seems more fun and really I will only ever be tinkering.
Great video! I would say that the Model:Cycles is geared more toward glitchy IDM style music in the style of Cylob and early Autechre. Other styles of music can be made with it, but it excels at that with its FM engine. Circuit is much more versatile when it comes to style.
3:52 Sorry that I'm apparently too old for being allowed in electronic music 😢
That said, you're absolutely right: Circuit is currently not even half the price of Ableton Push (not including Ableton Suite!) and I also find myself reaching for it more, for its immediacy and simplicity. Getting an idea down - nothing beats the Novation Circuit.
Not at all too old, just trying to be self aware about my music taste
Hey Boomer.... ;-)
Recently picked up a Korg Electribe Sampler 2 with hardcase for £180. Talk about a game changer! Thoroughly recommended if you're looking to add more esoteric elements to your regular sound.
bro your vids deserve way more views. All love
Enjoyed the video. And got a laugh at your comment ~4 min mark; “If you are a millennial or gen-z and you like creating EDM electronic music...”
This 62 year young Baby-boomer was creating EDM waaaay back in 1976 on a Roland sh3a and then a System 100 modular.
Some old folks can get our groove on daily : )
Hell yeah, that's awesome. I definitely target viewers my age or slightly younger, but I'm really glad that people like you stick around and seem to dig the videos. I definitely intend to keep my taste for dance music and heavy electronic music intact as I get older so that's an inspiration!
Next week I’m picking up a System 1...all those glowing green knobs got me.
RESPECT
That's awesome. I'm 52 and watched this video for info on what drum machine to start with for live looping. Electronic music i way older than most people realize, and i'm getting more into it as i get older.
@@GabeMillerMusic Thanks for making this video. Your vids are really clear and helpful. I'm researching to buy my first 'drum machine' to use with a live looping set-up. You just got a new 52 year old subscriber :-)
Oh man! This is awesome! I wasn’t even aware of the Circuit! It might be exactly what I was looking for and for not too bad of a price.
Have a 1010music Blackbox for a couple of days now and I'm pretty sure you'd love it and put it near the top of the list.
Yes, but its regular price is $599 in the States.
@@eonsfollower unfortunately yes. Used on Ebay to be had for roundabout 450.
link to that instrument?
I remember considering a circuit before i knew about the MPC one, so happy i went big :D
Gen X here,I have MPC and several DAWs. Couldn't agree more re Circuit, even more so after last update. MC505 territory.
I got myself Circuit couple days ago, thanks to your videos :)
Very refreshing after using Opz
Mans is out here with 4 arms
😂
I forgot to link the video about "multitrack" Circuit, so here it is: ua-cam.com/video/OzXLsmDK4rE/v-deo.html
Also, the focus of this video was hardware, but if you want to make music on the go without buying dedicated gear, apps like Caustic (iOS and Android) or Auxy (iOS) are great.
Auxy is not much good example with it's subscription model and lot of limitations .. If you want dive deep into iOS, check stulff like Novation Groovebox, GrooverRider GR-16, Korg Electribe Wave, Drambo, Pure Acid (when you're searching for grooveboxes), or Nanostudio 2, Korg Gadget, Cubasis, Beatmaker 3, Auria Pro (when you are searchning for complete DAW/production tools) ... Or if you want go insane modular then miRack :-) ...and then of course synth plugins like Zeeon, Synthmaster One, Moog Model D, Moog Model 15, iSEM, ShockWave and many many more ... If you want get just brief overview check for example this channel : ua-cam.com/users/JakobHaq
THX to the both^ of you❕
very helpful indeed
"An old piece of gear in the packaging of a new piece of gear...". Isn't that Roland's mantra? ;) Cheers!
Great video, going to take a look into these. Got quite interested in Model:Cycles actually.
Dont forget the most hated akai rythem wolf.I found hooking up a zoom multi effexts pedal to the akai rythem wolf rocks it really makes it pop so if you have a rythem wolf in the junk door pull it out and hook up some effects pedals to it as it brings it to life hands down.
The wolf is cool iv got the Roland t8 that's kinda like a wolf
What a great, straightforward and eloquent tutorial. Thank you! 👍👍👍👍👍
Gabe, great presentation. Carry on
Under $500 Circuit is the best device I have purchased so far.
Great video review - looking for groovebox to add to my looper and Circuit and Mc 101 are my favourite to reach for. :)
The Volca sample has just been updated with better I/O and more memory. It sits, in price, right between the PO and Circuit. I haven’t played with it though.
The first case for PO-33 is called CA-X black
The E2S (Electribe 2 Sampler) is the hub of my all hardware setup as a 16 track MIDI sequencer. Haven't tried a Circuit yet, but absolutely love Novation. Not even sure if the Circuit can sequence MIDI. 🎼 💿
Love your work Gabe, both your music and your content A+ !!!
When I was looking for a standalone box I was considering the electribe and the circuit, I chose the electribe,
mainly because it has more channels (I make synthwave/sound tracks and need at least 3 channels, bass, lead/synth and pad).
100% agree on the lofi nature of the electribe and the nice hands on programming of sounds.
I started making patterns and came up with very cool stuff, then I started going deeper and deeper,
the step sequencer has good and bad things, got used to it, but what broke me was trying to make a song on this,
you make a song by chaining patterns and when you move from one pattern to the next you hear the transition (sound cut off)
I heard the master of the electribe, mistabishi, he has definitely found a way to mask these transitions, I would guess using reverbs
and wise sound choices, but it just irritated the crap out of me so I sold it, bought an iPad, Korg gadget plus a few of Korg's synths and
just never looked back. its so easy to work with and the results are amazing (you probably think I'm a Korg guy, but I'm not, I actually
more of Roland/Yamaha user).
I also used Caustic which I saw you used and got some good results, I feel the sound quality of the Korg is better, I just wish Roland would make
something like the Gadget or some AU synths, because the combination of Korg and Roland synths would be almost perfect.
Hearing you talking about the circuit makes me think about picking up one when I can find one in a reasonable price as people these days
have gone kind of mad and try to sell you used stuff for prices of new.
Anyhow, interesting to see what you can do with an iPad and Korg Gadget.
Thanks for all the wonderful work
I'll definitely add the Gadget to the list of stuff to try out. I've been getting back into the world of apps lately, especially Caustic (which really comes to life if you load in custom sounds).
These days, I like to export Electribe tracks as WAV files then mix them from there, as opposed to live jamming. That gives me more control and allows me to make a much more polished track. And I personally still really enjoy the tactile nature of groovebox music production. But tablet/phone music production has really gotten good, which is awesome to see, and it's dope that you've found something that clicks for you!
@@GabeMillerMusic thanks for the reply Gabe, I use the korg nanokey studio controller with gadget, it has 8 knobs + 8 pads and integrates very well with it.
The only drawback for me is that it has a 2 octave keyboard (I actually dig the plastic keys) and I want at least 4 octaves
to play chord sequences, so have another portable 4 octave, that is probably because of the size.
maybe one day I'll get that small 4 octave Bluetooth keyboard korg sells, it is just overprice imho.
Oh, and I actually discovered that there is a TAL U NO LX version for iPad which is a great clone of the Roland Juno 60, so will try to see
how that plays with gadget.
The cassette cameo was great
The Korg has an resample mode which can be used if you load the es2 firmware. It’s actually one of my favorite ( the sampler version)
What about Roland JD-XI?
good workflow & available options on the novation. yet i am seriously trying to avoid the computer.
If you want to hardcore avoid the computer, it might be worth getting one of the new Novation Circuits... They can both hold multiple packs, so you could theoretically dump a bunch of packs onto either and call it a day, or you can even sample directly into the Circuit Rhythm (although note that it's monophonic).
@@GabeMillerMusic thanks for the tip 👍🏼 🙏🏼
2:20 I did not expect that at all from that 😳😳😳 might cop
Thanks so much for the upload. I’ve been hesitating buying a circuit that long they’ve upgraded it. Can’t decide between the circuit tracks and the electribes . I want to make 70’s sounding dub reggae and trip hop. Probably end up buying both of them eventually.
what u finally buy mate?
@@banihafidhandrayu9145 circuit tracks
@@banihafidhandrayu9145 I love the Tracks. You start to understand what they mean by intuitive. It’s a lot easier to program than my Volca Sample.
@@jambutty2218 i dunno mate... i think im gonna buy electribe2 instead.
cant export to ableton instanly is kinda deal breaker for me.
but, im happy for you! dont forget to have fun, thanks for ur insight
@@banihafidhandrayu9145 I’m an absolute beginner. I find I have more control and get actual tunes made. With Caustic 3 the only DAW I can get my head around. Than I do with the tracks. Which is good for jamming with myself. My instruments are guitar and mandolin. I started making electronic music, because I have moved into a flat that doesn’t have good sound insulation. So in the evenings I can be as loud as I like and work at any time with electronic instruments.
I’d really be interested in your trying out the Cycles. It’s more like the Electribe in terms of sound design from scratch and lots of tracks and more like the Circuit in terms of workflow in some ways but then powerful and unique and fun in others . . . conditional trigs are awesome!
Try the MC-101. Almost everyone (except this guy) agrees that it sounds leaps and bounds better than the circuit or the tribe. It's got the famous ACB engines in it which are the most accurate recreations of analog short of an completely sample-based plugin.
Your a great sounding musician. Nice clean e.d.m beats but dam the last track the trap on this vid goes HARD!!!
I do punk /industrial I really liked the first electribe with the vacuum tubes traded it for pa gear now i wish I hadn't probably get the electribe 2 thanks for a cool video very helpfull
I mainly use Ableton/NI when at the home studio but take my Roland sp404 everywhere. I wish Roland would bring us what they promised in the sp-606 or sp-808 into a new portable unit. I can't exactly carry my mv-8800 around with me
really educational easy watch , much appreciated !
I picked up the tribe2sampler some time ago. I dont like the workflow BUT it just does so much. Sampling, loading samples some sound design, sequencing external synths. If it just had multiple outputs it would be a true studio swiss army knife
you've become a groovebox guru bro
How do you make those dubstep-y bass sounds at 4:06, and how do you make it all wobbly like that?
In this case, that's from the preset pack by Tom Cosm, but it's a very popular bass design technique known as a "reese," where two sounds are slightly out of pitch from each other, which creates that warble. Then a bunch of distortion and filter effects are added on top.
Can any of this devices be used to record vocals, guitars or other stuff like a DAW?
You can plug a mic into the electribe but it only does live effects. You would have to record the performance with an external recorder.
@@difflocktwo I know, the easiest solution I have today is to use my tablet or phone as the recorder.
Totally. Or maybe a Zoom or Tascam handy recorder or mini multitrack recorder.
You can record into the PO33 but I wouldn't recommend it. It would sound like a seagull being sucked into a jet engine and imploding.
You need a Synthstrom Deluge. :)
ua-cam.com/video/nxO4j4YOstU/v-deo.html
tHIS VIDEO WAS SO HELPFUL
This has been really helpful, thank you. Obviously this can be connected to a mix??
I would have included software for phones and tablets people already have. GarageBand on iPhone and iPad is pretty impressive, and it is free.
That's a good call. I really love Causitc 3 for both iOS and Android, and people also seen to dig Auxy and Korg Gadget
its not the same, especially if you like the tactical feedback of knobs and pushing a button or moving a fader.
Or, if you are legally blind like me.
Dang that Trap beat at 11:10 is worth the price of admission for the Roland MC 101
No Elektron Model Samples??.. it is is close competition with Circuit and Electribe but has an awesome sequencer and is great to play live...I have all three and the EMS probably gets the most use these days, the only downside is the lack of a synth but it can be faked.
Thanks bro was looking for some input on my buying.. I have a po33 wish some one would of mentioned saving track to mp3 is more complicated ... Would like to hear how circuit hiphop sounds
Hi. You didn't leave the link to the workaround for getting audio from the Circuit into a DAW when jamming.
Thanks, I just added a pinned comment. And here's the video: ua-cam.com/video/OzXLsmDK4rE/v-deo.html
I purchased an MC-101 because I wanted something small and battery operated that I can create hip-hop beats to scratch to. I have found it very difficult to learn, but I've come across your tutorials and I will be watching them.
that beat at 11:08 is fire (as they say)
Thanks! I have an in-depth tutorial for MC-101 beginners coming next week!
Korg Kaossilator,.... brilliant what you can do with that... also highly recommend the newly released Artiphon ORBA..cheap too. I have the Circuit but find it a bit restrictive... you can do a lot with it but the lack of buttons and the need to remember tons of button/pad combinations to enable/activate certain menu based functions can be daunting for new users. Best Korg electribe is the EMX-1 by a mile.. however not a portable groovebox.
I've got an Orba on the way! I'm really excited to give it a go.
What device do tou recommend me to connect my akai mini mk3 to a boss rc500 loop pedal, and brings to the akai power and sounds? I see that you say that the ciecuit doesnt but the roland 101 can be, I don't know if can connect to a boss rc500 loop pedal... And, if exist a cheaoer solution with good quality and variety of sounds and effects..
So, I am looking into using a portable, stand-alone, sound device for simple voice responses and questions. My mom is going into surgery on her vocal cords and I'm trying to find a device that she can use to help her communicate while leading up to and recovering from her surgery. Do you have any suggestions on a device that could be used in that fashion that is simple to use? Thank you.
Ok, I use my circuit for samples and as a sequencer, the synth sounds are cool but easyly to get tired of them
I want a novation circuit so bad, seems they are out of stock everywhere
Sameeeeeee dude
Welcome to the Circuit Track gang
how much does that instrument cost
Great video !
What about the MPC500?
The PO 33 is a fun toy to carry around while traveling and it you can definitely do some interesting tunes with it but you need to invest in something better if you wanna make proper production.
The Novation Circuit seems to be the most VFM option but to me it just sounds too digital.. its sound doesn't seem to have that extra something..
SP404 MKII is also a very tempting new entry in that list.. especially if they keep working on firmware updates it will be one of the most versatile instruments out there
Thank you
Trying to get into sampling
Nice, glad it was helpful!
Gabe Miller Music - I own the Electribe 2 and the Electribe Sampler. The Electribe 2 is my favorite of the two. Of all the options you have shown, the Electribe 2 is the over all stand out. While you will run into voice count limitations as a sound module, however, using the Electribe 2 still Reigns supreme as a sequencing midi controller for your daw or iOS. Connected to AUM or DAW for iOS you can have the Electribe 2 control and sequence 16 tracks all at once. Creating patterns is dead easy. Plus you have built in groove or rhythm templates.
Also it was designed to work with Korg Gadget and Electribe wave for iOS. The Electribe 2 is a work horse. Old, yes, but to me it is a shame when newer midi controllers cant sequence more than 4 tracks on an iPad Pro. Yet this old dinosaur can out perform midi controllers of today.
likely a stupid question: but what about the Garage Band sampler on a i-phone or I-pad ?
I mean, you can do a lot on this GB free app
I was looking for the link you talked about at 7.35mins? I agree circuit all the way, and once you have 1 PO you probably would get a few then your in the circuit price range for a used unit or on when they are on sale i think mine was £218 on sale, and i have 3 POs so that's £180 there. Interestingly the MC-707 even if its large and costs more seems to be better value for money that the MC-101, still both cool units.
I think he was referring to ua-cam.com/video/OzXLsmDK4rE/v-deo.html
Yep, that's it, I totally forgot to link it.
The 707 is definitely a cool unit, and seeing it in action makes some of the quirks of the 101 make sense... It's definitely less portable though
@@overnhet Cheers
For what its worth, as of jan 2023 the mc101 is 495$ on amazon and the mv1 is only 499$ 🎉😮 so only a 5$ difference and still under 500$ if anyones interested.
Hope Korg would come out with a groovebox as small as the mc 101
Have you tried the synthstrom deluge? Its over the 500 bucks limit, but im interested how its compares to the boxes shown in the video...
$899 USD But seriously the best instrument I've ever bought. The developer is a genius and with regular major updates the Deluge grows even better. Drum machine, synth, sampler, looper, incredible workflow, battery powered, usb charge or 9v wallwart. I haven't touched my Circuit since buying the Deluge. It's a desert island dream device. If it's within your budget it's one purchase you will never regret that makes more expensive devices look act sound like mere toys.
@@lifeurge These words lift my spirit (and my wallet) for my Deluge is somewhere between Los Angeles and my house as we speak. I can't wait to get my hands on it. I've poured over Circuit videos for a while but I felt it would be too limiting. So I paid the extra money for the Deluge+hard cover+manual. I am hopeful my purchase will not be in vain.
@@bose5160 Congratulations Robert. I'm certain you will be blown away by your new Deluge. While you're waiting for it to arrive, watch as many videos as you can and join the open Facebook group and you'll hit the ground running. The Deluge is easy to understand and the workflow will have you creating tracks within minutes. I recommend the Synthdawg manual, which you can also download as a free PDF. Don't be overwhelmed by the level of detail in it. Most of the functions you need are printed as shortcuts on the front panel and you'll find your way around in no time. The Deluge is a beautiful creation that is a joy to play with and every player finds their own style. The fact that you can load it to the hilt with your own sample, then chop, distort, effect and modify them and use them as oscillators means you basically have an unlimited sound palette. The included synth and kit presets will also keep you happy and are infinitely tweakable on their own. Robert, your creativity and happiness levels are about to multiply exponentially. Congratulations in advance for making one of the wisest buying decisions you'll never regret! The Deluge is still extremely rare on the second hand market, but should you ever change your mind and wish to sell it, they hold their price exceptionally well. There is no way to lose and nothing to regret. Enjoy your Deluge bro!!!
This video shows some of the possibilities, but not his best work.
ua-cam.com/video/wxiwJ_kptMo/v-deo.html
This track is further along in the learning curve.
ua-cam.com/video/9EfOfd_s4f0/v-deo.html
Here's an example of sampling by someone else only a few days in with their Deluge.
ua-cam.com/video/nxO4j4YOstU/v-deo.html
The intro has been the summary of my past 5 weeks lol
I’ve been looking for a drum machine ,where I don’t have to use my laptop,that I can incorporate into a live RNB band setting that has drum samples that I can loop and manipulate while playing guitar and singing. If you have any recommendations I would love to hear them since I don’t know really where to look
I like the idea of the Circuit but I can't make heads or tails out of its interface. Maybe I'm just used to the more old school work flow.
likin the elect 2 !!!! depends on whats ur music I guess. I have a roland d2 and a ndlr. and a er-1 which I dont likeand is gettin sold although the new 40 buck option to reload samples is interesting.
Got really great productions skills!
I have a question - with the circuit or the roland - : can I record in real time some drums that I play without sequencing anything, just single sounds of drums, like if I was a real drummer, making it all myself in real time without caring about perfect timing - real time jamming whatever comes to my mind, and record it that way? I hate sequencing, because it sounds too much like techno. Can I do that with these machines?
Is there anything that's portable with batteries I remember a commercial with Dr. Dre playing one on a plane.
After buying the Electribe 2 Sampler first right after release and now I bought the Synth version a month or so back I can say I really like the Synth version better. The sampling capabilities aren’t great and they usually have LOTS of background noise if you use internal sampling. Plus the Synth has tweakable overdrive baked into all the drum sounds and tons of filters. $200 for the E2 Synth is hard to beat.
i went with the akai fire and my little 11 inch dell.
Thank you. Clear.
Which sampler should i buy for making a Boombap Beats?
I’m struggling to understand Sequencers vs Samplers vs Grooveboxes (combo of both?).
Do any of the Arturia Keystep or Beatstep range fit into the category of what’s featured in this video?
Late reply but... A sequencer (keystep) does not contain its own sounds. It cannot produce sound on its own. It is used to trigger sounds on other harware or software. A groovebox is similar in that u create a sequence on it, but it DOES contain its own sounds. It may or may not be able to sequence or play external gear/software. A sampler is a device that can record a sound and play it back. Its ez to get this confused w a sample player which can play original sound that are loaded into it via sd card or software, but doesn actually record the original sound source. Some gooveboxes MAY have all these functions which can add to the confusion. Examples from this vid and ur comment: The electribe 2 sampler is 1 such device that does all these things. The po33 can record sounds and sequence its onboard sounds, but cant sequence other devices or load original sounds onto it (to my knowledge at least). The keystep only sequences or plays other devices. Nothing else.
@@adamkrasneski3679 - Got it. Thank you. 🙏 🎹
This finally makes a Groovebox make sense to me, as well as clarify the other 2. Legend!
🕺 📦👍
If never trade my E2s for the synth version, mainly as it's the only true sampler I have. I tend to use the Circuit for base drums and chords, the electribe for capturing film and TV and environmental samples, and the volca sample for some custom drums and weird textures
Hi. Since the MC101 is on there, what about the 1010music blackbox? It's around the same price point but has some really unique, cool features.
sad thing is that the circuits been discontinued. i tried to order one from vintage king and they said that its been discontinued :/
There have been leaks for the Circuit Tracks which seems to be an improved version of the Circuit. However it has yet to be announced.
Can’t want for the (imminent?) release of the Circuit Mk2. Hopefully they hit the features you mention in the video, like multitrack export.
What about the higher-end Elektron sequencers, like the Digitone and Digitakt - have you had the chance to work with them at all?
What about the OP-z?
Hi! Nice video, great tools!
Probably your list misses Cubasis + Launchpad Pro Mk3 ?
No thoughts on Akai Force? Been wanting one since launch and especially now with all its excellent updates
can you make a video about topaiz sp 16 the pros and cons,old one but it sounds great.
how much is the instrument used?
How do you compare the Electribe and the Circuit with the Circuit Mono Station?
The Mono Station is pretty different, it's much more a dedicated synthesizer than an all in one production station
Are any of these actually able to "record" in the classic sense of recording real time, live, human performances by using microphones... and if so how many tracks? Or, are all of them just able to record interfaced keystroke/sample trigger events and have no real, live recording capability (real time/live vocals, guitar, acoustic drum set, etc,?
Havent watched yet but Is there a beat machine that i can use to make beats and record vocals all in one machine??? Id prefer not to have to have a computer set up but dont know if that exists lol.
Zoom r4
Can you enter outside samples eg, Voice. guitar ect.?
The Novation Circuit looks awesome. Opinions on the Circuit Rhythm and Circuit Tracks?
I've done dedicated review videos for both!
Are these all standalone in the aspect that you don't have to hook them up to a computer to generate sounds or anything? I'm looking for something where I don't need a computer for anything, sounds already built-in but trying to find the right one for a good price.
Confucius he say man with four grooveboxes no finish track.
Had the PO-33 for three days before I sold it. I wasn't feeling the workflow. I wasn't feeling the 10 bit sampling rate either. But mainly, I didn't want to place a bet on how quickly the battery clip would break off. Such poor build quality.
Love my Circuit though. Also, SO many firmware updates adding new features. Just a brilliant piece of kit.
My track record says otherwise, I put out a LOT of music.
That's fair, although in the Pocket Operator line's defense, I've left one in a backpack for like a month and it still works perfectly, no issues.
And yeah the Circuit is brilliant.
thank you so much, you get straight to the point and your video is really helpful. the only thing i didn't get why you ignore the volca series, i think they are almost at the same league with PO's
Glad you dig the video!
I didn't mention the Volcas because from what I've seen, they're typically best when coupled with other gear, or when recorded in layers. The closest to standalone would probably be the Sample, but IMO the PO-33 is a bit more powerful and approachable.
Is innovation circuit still a great buy today as my first machine??? Thanks