The Elektron Model Samples is a six-track sample based groove box that has quickly garnered attention in the music production world. Renowned for its intuitive design and powerful features, this device not only caters to seasoned producers, but also offers a simplified yet versatile platform for the beginners. Its impressive array of customizable controls, advanced sequencer, and a broad scope of editing parameters make it a compelling choice for producers looking to experiment with sounds and sequences. This device is engineered to capture your creativity, nudging it beyond the realms of conventional beat-making and sound design possibilities. In this review, we will journey through the key features, performance, and overall value of the Elektron Model Samples — your compact companion for stunning rhythm sequences and unraveled musical imagination.
Contents
Unboxing and First Impressions
Upon opening the box of the Elektron Model Samples, the first things you notice are its sleek design and compact size. The unit is well-packaged, ensuring the device arrives in pristine condition. Included in the box are the Model Samples device, a power supply unit, a USB cable for connectivity, and a well-detailed user manual.
The enclosure of the Model Samples is made of hard plastic which, while not as robust as a metal casing, feels durable enough for regular use or some modest transport. It’s lightweight yet sturdy, perfect for those who are frequently on-the-go. Weighing just 1.8 lbs, it’s easy to pack away and carry around, enhancing its portability.
Turning our attention to the unit itself, the Model Samples features a minimalistic layout, with a modest complement of controls arranged in an intuitive, user-friendly configuration. The top surface is adorned with a series of knobs and pads. Six track buttons cover the sample-playing capabilities, with each one corresponding to a track. Meanwhile, the pressure sensitive pads deliver nuanced control over the playing of the samples or can be tapped to trigger a sound.
In addition, there are encoders for adjusting various parameters, a sequencer – a feature Elektron is highly reputable for – and a variety of function buttons strewn across the interface. The samples and sequences can be manipulated easily with the knobs, adjusting parameters like pitch, decay, reverb or delay. A small yet crisp OLED screen is also present which displays important information about the samples or sequences you’re working on.
Another remarkable thing to note is the simple fact that it comes fully ready to use as soon as it’s unboxed, with a pre-loaded selection of samples that allow users to get making music instantly. It’s clear from the outset that this is a device which is designed to encourage instant creativity, regardless of a user’s experience level with similar equipment.
In summary, the Elektron Model Samples makes a good first impression with its aesthetic design, intuitive user interface, and its plug and play capabilities. It is obvious that a lot of thought has been given not just to the construction of the device but also to the user’s interaction with it. The unboxing experience sets a high bar for the quality and capabilities of the Model Samples. What remains is to see if the performance of the device lives up to the promise of these first impressions.
| Product Name | Amazon Link |
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| Elektron Protective Lid PL 4 Model | Find more info on Amazon here! |
| Elektron Model Cycles 6 Track Groove | Find more info on Amazon here! |
Key Features and Functionality
The Electron Model Samples devices have a multitude of exceptional features worth mentioning.
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Six Track Digital Sample Player: The Model Samples comes with six tracks that allow you to play six different sounds simultaneously. Each track uses a different sample that can easily be manipulated or changed, providing limitless possibilities for music creation.
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Parameter Locks: This unique feature allows users to assign different parameter settings for each step in a sequence, enabling a wide range of dynamic results. With this, you have the ability to create intricate sounds from a single sample.
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Compact and Lightweight: Weighing at just under 2 lbs, the Model Samples is extremely portable and can be carried around effortlessly. This mobility does not come at the expense of durability, with the hardware being structurally robust.
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Load Your Own Samples: While the device comes preloaded with 300 sample sounds, users have the flexibility to upload their own samples into any of the six tracks. An additional 1 GB of storage ensures you can store numerous custom samples.
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Seamless Workflow: The Model Samples is designed with simplicity and ease of use in mind. The one-knob-per-function interface ensures that you can mould the sound with precision, while the full color backlit buttons give clear visual feedback in all types of lighting conditions.
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Class Compliant USB Audio 2.0: Using the very efficient USB Audio 2.0, the Model Samples can be easily connected to a computer for sample transfer, and can also be powered by a USB connection, making it highly convenient for on-the-go usage.
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Step Sequencer: The sequencer is at the core of the Model Samples operation. It is intuitive and relatively straightforward to use, providing options for Step Recording and Live Recording, with maximum sequence length being 64 steps.
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Battery Handle Power Option: Though the Model Samples need to be plugged into a power source to operate, the option to use the Battery Handle means music creation can take place wherever inspiration strikes.
These features contribute to making the Elektron Model Samples not only a powerful music production tool but also an easy-to-use device for both beginner and seasoned music enthusiasts alike.
Sound Quality and Performance
When it comes to sound quality, the elektron Model Samples truly shines. Armed with a six-track sample-based groovebox, the Model Samples offers an impressive sonic range designed to cater to the needs of modern producers. The real magic of Model Samples lies in its versatility and the quality of its pre-loaded sounds. The unit comes with a generous collection of 300 pre-loaded samples, and users can also load their own samples via a micro USB port.
The audio quality from the Model Samples is generally superb. You can expect a crisp top end, punchy mids, and deep, resonating lows. The fine-grain control over every sonic aspect is a major differentiator for this machine. Each of the six monophonic tracks can be individually tweaked and tuned in real-time, providing an overwhelming amount of depth and flexibility in shaping sounds.
The groovebox is also notable for its excellent performance capabilities. One standout feature is the Elektron sequencer, which is renowned for its design and functionality. With parameter locks, conditional triggers, and versatile sound shaping abilities, the Model Samples provides a comprehensive toolset for both real-time recording and step-by-step sequence creation.
In terms of workflow, the Model Samples is intuitive and user-friendly, even for beginners. The knobs and buttons offer direct, hands-on control, making it extremely easy to shape and warp sounds on the fly. The device is also compatible with Elektron’s Overbridge software, allowing for DAW integration which can enhance the creative flow.
However, it’s not without its imperfections. One common criticism is that the elektron Model Samples can be a bit menu-heavy, which might be a challenge for users who prefer a more straightforward, knob-per-function kind of interface. Also, keep in mind that the Model Samples does not support time-stretching or pitch-shifting, which might be a limitation for some musicians.
In conclusion, the sound quality and performance capabilities of the elektron Model Samples make it a standout choice in the range of hardware samplers available today. With both excellent pre-loaded sounds and the ability to import your own, along with a powerful sequencer and intuitive controls, the Model Samples offers a top-tier music-making experience across various styles and genres. While it does have minor setbacks, they are easily outweighed by the machine’s numerous advantages.
Connectivity and Integration
Elektron Model Samples boasts a wide array of connectivity options, consistent with its role as a fully integrated piece of hardware within any home production or live performer setup. It provides a stereo audio output, headphone output, and a standard MIDI In/Out/Thru. This MIDI connectivity, featuring standard five-pin connections, allows for easy integration with other synths, drum machines, and your DAW.
Another prominent feature of the Model Samples is its USB port for data and audio transfer. This feature facilitates seamless integration with a digital production environment. It enables users to transfer samples and sequences from the Elektron software on your computer to the standalone hardware with ease.
Furthermore, Model Samples can also run over USB power or with a standard DC adapter. The USB power capability makes it an excellent choice for mobile producers or people who want to make music on the go. Its compact size, coupled with this connectivity feature, contributes to its appeal as a portable and versatile machine.
What also sets Model Samples apart is its Overbridge support. Overbridge is Elektron’s software suite that enables total integration of Elektron hardware into a computer-based recording environment. This means that Model Samples can be used as a sound card, processing all sound directly to and from your DAW via a single USB cable.
To sum it up, the Elektron Model Samples connectivity and integration features cover all bases for modern producers, allowing for flexible use as a standalone sampler/sequencer or fully integrated into a DAW based setup.
Pros and Cons
Starting with the pros of Elektron Model Samples, there are a number of features that stand out:
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Quality Sound: This device is capable of delivering powerful, crisp, and clean sounds that come across as professional-grade. Its sound quality rivals far more expensive models.
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Ease of Use: With straightforward controls and features, the Elektron Model Samples is easy for beginners to pick up, while still offering advanced capabilities for more experienced users.
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Compact and Portable: Its lightweight nature and compact size ensure you can carry it around with ease, making it an ideal option for live performances.
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Versatility: Offering six different audio tracks, it can accommodate varied samples and sequences, thus enhancing creativity.
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Affordability: Given its quality and features, the Elektron Model Samples is quite reasonably priced, giving you value for your money.
Moving onto the cons, there are a few things that might not work in its favor:
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Lack of a Power Switch: The unit has no dedicated power switch, which means you must plug/unplug it to power on and off. This could be inconvenient for some users.
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Limited Sampling Capability: Unlike its counterparts, the Elektron Model Samples does not offer a sampling feature. You have to load pre-made samples onto it, which could limit its versatility.
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Small Screen: Although functional, the screen is rather small and might be difficult for some to read.
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Occasional Software Glitches: Some users have reported software-related glitches and bugs, though firmware updates have addressed many of these issues. However, there’s a chance some users might experience occasional inconsistencies.
Comparisons with Other Products
When comparing the Elektron Model Samples to other grooveboxes currently on the market, several key points emerge.
The Roland MC-707, for instance, has a much more comprehensive range of features than the Model Samples, including analogue modelling, FM synthesis and rompler features. However, these come with a steeper learning curve and a higher price tag. The MC-707 is definitely more professionally-focused and might be overkill for beginners.
Next to the Korg Electribe, the Model Samples does seem more simplified. But what it lacks in complexity, it makes up for in intuitive design and user-friendly feel. The Korg Electribe, while highly capable and versatile, has a high learning curve and can seem overly complex to newcomers.
Novation’s Circuit Groovebox presents an interesting price point comparison. The Circuit is cheaper than the Model Samples and offers both synth and sample-based work. However, the Circuit is somewhat let down by its software, which is required for full functionality and is not as integrated or user-friendly as Elektron’s solutions.
On the other hand, the Model Samples stands out with its parameter locks, its deep sequencing capabilities and its robust build quality. Its simplicity is its strength, allowing users to focus on making music, rather than figuring out complex menu structures.
The Akai MPC Live and the Maschine Plus from Native Instruments, on the other end of the scale, are professional, studio-grade machines that offer enormously more power and flexibility. However, they are also considerably more expensive and have a much steeper learning curve than the Model Samples.
In conclusion, the Elektron Model Samples is less a jack-of-all-trades and more a master of one. Its focus on samples and sequencing, alongside a rich feature set and a very accessible user interface makes it a captivating option for both newcomers and veterans in the world of grooveboxes.
Price Point and Value for Money
The Elektron Model Samples stands at a moderate-to-high price point in the market spectrum of similar groovebox units. It’s slightly pricey compared to entry-level devices but for the added cost, you receive a product distinguished by its exceptional sound quality, and vast customizability options which often surpass the specifications of other budget-friendly counterparts.
The device flaunts superb build quality with its robust and heavy-duty bodywork, which definitely adds value to your investment. It is designed to withstand and excel in various demanding musical performances, making it a reliable machine for both newbies and seasoned musicians.
Essentially, the price point can be justified by the extensive functionality and versatility it offers. It’s compact and portable, yet doesn’t compromise the number of features. It is packed with high-grade components like its velocity-sensitive pads, class-compliant USB for USB-MIDI, DIN style MIDI jacks and a dedicated audio interface. It also boasts a sizable memory capacity, ideal for live sets or extensive studio sessions.
Additionally, the Model Samples offers a user-friendly interface, promoting a hassle-free user experience which is a significant value-for-money aspect for individuals who are less familiar with this type of equipment. The quick signal flow and the step sequencer make it an excellent tool for real-time groove crafting.
Therefore, if you’re seeking a multi-functional, highly durable, and user-friendly sampling groovebox, then the Elektron Model Samples provides great value for your money. While it’s not the cheapest option available, its advanced features, and top-notch performance, definitely make it a worthy investment.
Final Thoughts and Recommendations
The Elektron Model Samples stands out as a remarkable drum machine and groovebox that merges versatility, portability, and ease-of-use. Users can expect exceptional build quality and design that is synonymous with the Elektron brand. This device brings the highly creative and expansive Elektron sequencer into a lighter, more user-friendly interface which makes it an ideal choice for those new to the world of synthesizers, or seasoned professionals looking for an easy-to-use device.
The Model Samples is one of the most accessible Elektron devices to date, boasting one knob per function design, “what you see is what you get” approach which makes it an instant inspiration source. Despite its size and simplicity, the sound quality is uncompromised and uses high-grade components to deliver a jam-packed performance. The generous sample storage space allows users to load an array of sounds ideal for crafting beats on the fly or in the studio.
However, to fully utilize the Model Samples’ capabilities, users need a digital audio workstation with MIDI support. This detail is worth considering, especially for those who want to use this device in a stand-alone manner. It’s also worth noting that the Model Samples doesn’t have song mode, instead, it uses pattern chaining which can limit the workflow for some musicians.
Considering the price point, the Model Samples sticks out as a weapon of choice for those seeking a hands-on, high-quality sampling drum machine minus the steep learning curve. While synth enthusiasts may crave a more in-depth synthesis and sound design tool, for the overall majority of electronic musicians, Elektron Model Samples remains a cost-effective and overall excellent hardware solution.