What is the best device for cinect a boss rc500 loop with a akai mini mk3 that can bring power and sounds (keys/synths and drums for the pads) to the akai (l without a computer, Im searching for the best portable solution that can connect both boss and akai)?
Oh man, I love my PO33 so much. It's more of a way of "discovering" a song than making one with an idea in mind but I love that about it. It always kinda breaks my heart when people call it a toy because on one hand it is but I think that it's so accessible between being easy to learn and inexpensive that it's unrivaled for a lofi hip hop starter device
Well done. After searching for a good month your review was the kicker to get me into the Novation. It’ll be here on Saturday. This vinyl spinning DJ/analog junkie is excited and freaked out!
I have a soft spot for the Electribe since I’ve been with them since their initial release. The Circuit looks like a winner as a starter, especially looking at how Novation has supported it through the years. The Micro Freak is a monster. The others fill rolls that don’t apply to me so they would farther down the list. I would add the Yamaha DX200, but they haven’t been made for years. Nice work on your videos.
My personal favorite Groovebox/synth/production machine is the Synthstrom Deluge. It's a lot of fun to work with, is surprisingly intuitive once you get past what looks to be a daunting interface (it isn't), is ridiculously portable, Synthstrom is very much into listening to user feedback, and has an amazing community behind it. It's the first thing I reach for to work on music anymore. Second is Circuit, third is Digitakt...
I want a big boy version of the circuit, with a small LCD screen (so I know what the heck the knobs are doing!) and at least 8 tracks. Also a USB/sd card reader so I can plug and play samples straight from the USB/card, like my Octatrack. I have a bunch of drum machines and samplers (Octatrack, Digitakt, Akai Force, Toraiz SP16, Roland TR8s, Arturia Impact, Yamaha RS7000, etc) but the Circuit is the one I pick up if I'm heading to the sofa or bed.
Awesome video but a quick note on the po 33. I have been struggling to get into music production for a while, going straight to FL Studio and then giving up when overwhelmed with all the options. The PO was the device I needed to get into it, as I think it's a fantastic "beginner start here!" tool to understand sequencing, sampling, filtering etc. in a really tiny package. It broke it down to the minimum of what you need with only filters, some trimming and some volume and pitch adjustment, which, as you realise what you need to advance in music creation, you can then build on. I'm now looking at the circuit because I took that step with the po 33 and that's why I wouldn't necessarily consider it a toy.
Just wanted to thank you again bro. I've been working with software for a while but I was debating between the circuit and mc101 and u gave me an honest opinion. I got it, I love it and its fun to learn and make mistakes on even. Good first piece of hardware. I've been looking at the microfreak next.
Cool! Thanks for the rundown! I am a Circuit guy, but I speak good and bad of it. The Mono Station with it's superior sequencer, perfect onboard synth to sound design onboard, and even the nice drum sequencing outcomes, make it the #1 winner, although not a full music production device. For that I would point to the Synthstrom Deluge alone. It is king.
I love my Electribe 2s, it's the first bit of standalone hardware I bought. I almost sold it until I realised I could use it to sequence my other gear. Now I have it sequencing the 2 synth parts of my circuit and my minilogue. It's not the best at anything specifically but for the price you get a pretty deep groove box with decent enough sampling that can sequence up to 16 other devices. It makes a great brain for my budget standalone hardware setup, I would highly recommend it despite the lack of ongoing support from Korg.
Thanks to Gabe and his usual unflappable knowledge of Music making devices and locking out for the "little guys" who don't want to break the bank going down the Rabbit hole..... the first major piece of equipment I bought was the circuit tracks and I absolutely adore it and now it's got my dream spinning. All the other possible that are out there and which one is next spend my hard-earned money on.... Twice the same Electribe2 is on its way and I sure hope I made the right decision ! .... although it's not the Synth version as i just discovered he recommends...it's on its way nonetheless. Fingers and toes crossed Folks !
Circuit was my first Groovebox. Hit the limitations quick. Upgraded to Elektron Model Cycles. Corrected all the gripes I had with the Circuit. Now I'm getting the Roland MC-707 soon as an all-in-one machine (sequencing, drums, synths, acoustic sounds, and looper).
Elektron model:samples. Amazing sequencer with a fast intuitive workflow. If it gets stale, just load it up with new samples. It has a ton of hard drive space. Single cycle waveforms for synthesis. I added an external AA battery compartment to the side port and I attached it to the side with Velcro. Now it’s completely portable too. With sample locks the six tracks aren’t that limiting. Also it’s class compliant usb allows me to plug it into my phone with the USB adapter and record over usb.
100% agree the samples is highly underrated! You can also create aggressive fm sounds by shortening sample length and turning on repeat or assigning LFO to pitch or cutoff at extremely high rates. It has its limitations and it's not an "all in one" machine, but it's much more than the lukewarm launch reviews, and with step parameter and sample locks, you can make some unique sounding stuff. My go to for industrial, dungeon synth, and I even use it at a 6 voice super drone box.
The core two pieces of my setup are a Circuit and an Electribe and I gotta say I think I'd like the Electribe a lot more if I had gotten it before the Circuit instead of after. Despite the limit to two channels in the Circuit, the 8 bars of sequencing just blows the Electribe out of the water, and I end up using my Electribe more as a drum machine and sequencer for my external bass synths than a production stations in and of itself. Its funny too, because when first got my Circuit I liked it for about two weeks, and then became frustrated with the limits of only having two synth channels so I bought an Electribe. But once I had the Electribe everything I now love about circuit suddenly came into focus and it has been my go to device for nearly a year while the Electribe is something I essentially only use to fill out a track I already mostly finished on Circuit.
That was a fun video, even though it is a bit in the apples vs. oranges department. And yes, the Circuit is the perfect entry level synth gear. It is so fully packed with basic stuff and still easy to access even by total beginners. It's simply already a modern classic!
I love the KO 33 i actually think it can sound really good especially if u record it into a multi track and eq compress and I record it on to tracks and pan then both different to try bring a bit of stereo back into it
Now, with v1.72 on the MC-101, i'd love to see where is on your list now. Roland did a great job with updating the device and added so much convenience to it trough their updates. I think it should move way up now :)
Yeah it's a lot higher now than it used to be. At this point I'd consider my top devices to be a tie between the Circuits, the MC-101, and the MPC One.
over the last 4-5 years most of my main riffs, basslines an drums have been crafted on the circuit. i usually use the midi-tracks tu trigger synths with better sounds (but not always). Plus it is an incredibly useful tool for live performances, replacing ableton for me. snd it's still the cheapest thing i own.
agreed, love my Circuit for design and workflow, considere mc101 but sprang for the MC-707 and am SO GLAD I did. With each update from roland I am finding more and more ways to use it. Hooking up external midi keyboard to MC-707 and wow. Just needs a dang one bar count-in when recording!!!!
Great info on this. Appreciate your take on these boxes. here’s my take on the Boss Loopers: I have owned and used the RC-202 for a couple of years as my go to. I recently moved up to the Rc-505, and after just a week with it, the weaknesses of the 202 are now very apparent to me. It’s not just the 2 tracks. The 505 is very straightforward and intuitive in its operation, whereas the 202 requires some very annoying menu diving. The multi-function buttons give the 202 many features, but that fact slows down the creative flow. IMHO, if you want do looping with a tabletoppper, save ur bucks and get the 505. The big brother is much more Fun, and it’s just easier to use, and with that, ‘nuff said.
Man I am not buying another groovebox for years, the circuit has so much depth. Some people are unsatisfied with the synth sounds being a little thin, but with the editor I’ve been able to EQ them to my taste (I boost the mids to 11 and turn those “pre-fx, post-fx” nobs to taste: it thickens up the sound quite well IMO). The reverb and delay are great quality, and I picked this up second hand for 170 EUR! I could pay that much for a reverb pedal alone that wouldn’t be nearly as satisfying. What I would consider pairing with it is the Circuit Monostation: they’re designed to compliment one another, it just makes sense! I do wish the circuit could play samples chromatically, and that it could receive pitch bend signals more easily, but again, you can map a macro directly to pitch and use it for bends. As for the POs, I love the sounds off the Sub, and the lead synth on the Robot literally gives me goosebumps. The 33 gets too much attention ;) Edit: I forgot to mention some cons of the circuit.
I love my Microfreak, it's what got me back into playing around with music and made me look at other synths in different way as well. I just wish it had some basic built-in effects as an awful lot of them lend themselves to having some reverb or distortion. Granted for the price it's already amazing, but I get the feeling there's a lot of free space for more stuff in there looking at the unused preset slots and would definitely shell out for some extra stuff on it
My ko33 is really low fi but its great to get a 90s style sampler sound, its the closest you'll get to an old 90s sampler without spending thousands of dollars.
Enjoy your videos, new sub. With rumours of the circuit 2 going round, what would your ideal features list for an updated circuit be? I think having a family like launchpad would be interesting, so a Circuit Pro, Circuit X, and Circuit mini might be cool. Interested to hear your thoughts
I'd love a slightly bigger Circuit with a third synth track and the ability to do multitrack USB output like the MC-101, plus maybe chromatic sample tuning. A smaller Circuit would also be cool, although at a certain point, smallness leads to menu diving.
I just wanna say if you came here and you're considering buying an arturia microfreak it's worth every cent. Everything except 2 parameters can be modulated on the synth, you can even modulate modulations on the synth with ease. Also the filter is analog and sounds like butter. The arp sequencer is wild as well, and you can set mod parameters on your arp sequences, like so much potential and quality in a $300 synth
I had the microfreak, returned it because of the dozens of bugs (the day I got my money back firmware 2.0 was released, it's probably much better now). I could never get that many interesting results with that expressive aftertouch keyboard. I felt like the 'aftertouch' resolution was only 4 steps or so, it was far from smooth and you really had to dial up that effect to get any noticable difference in sound. It was quite weird. Do you think that was a bug, something to do with dry skin or is that just how they are? I expected the normal 128 posiblities for aftertouch.
Different strokes... I play in a live electronica duo and I’ve tried dozens of similarly priced and sized synths and MF is my favourite by far due to the variety of sounds I can make and the speed with which I can build patterns and play over the top of them in a live situation. So I think it depends on what you intend for the tool.
I read, that you can use the electribe to control upto 16 external instruments? Is that right? Because the 2 track Circuit feels very limited at that (and you lose the mininova synths).
@@GabeMillerMusic Thanks for the reply, your video really helped me decide on going hardware-first, trading in my midi controllers, and choosing a groovebox and synth to get started!
Yeah there's a stereo output, and you can pan stuff left and right and get a bit of stereo with effects. But the synth engines can only provide mono sounds (in terms of the stereo spectrum, they can be polysynths).
@@GabeMillerMusic That is true, just as it is with the Novation Circuit. I just noticed that you made a major point about this in your video, as if this were something unusual. I am not aware of any true analogue synth (at least that I can afford) that generates stereo directly, it's always just the effects. I have a Roland JD-XA that supports stereo samples, but that is because it is a hybrid analogue/digital synth.
@@GabeMillerMusic well... no! And I just checked. The spring reverb fuction is stereo and you can pan each of the four tracks individually to specific positions between left and right channel.
I did a software video a while back: ruclips.net/video/wVQLuU1v1CQ/видео.html Most of it still applies, except I'm using Reaper as my DAW instead of Logic after switching from Mac to Windows.
Honestly, calling the RC-202 a "looper" is such an understatement. It's a mixer, it's a killer FX unit, *and* it's a looper. You essentially get three things in one for $300, which is a killer deal for budget junkies. Then you can eventually upgrade to a better mixer and get even more functionality
So, as someone who has been playing a Model D since 1974, and is 100% hardware-centric (i.e. I don't use a DAW) was among the first "Techno/Trance DJ's" here in the south, let me give you my top advice for anyone wanting a synth that will give you virtually everything you want: Roland JX-Xi. Today 90% of my beats are made entirely with or partially with that synth. I also use an MX, and MOD...but have right now 20-25 synths depending on what I want to play. Ironically, I just got the Circuit a few weeks ago. I've had the Monostation since it came out, and the Circuit really surprised me at how versatile it is. But definitely go do some homeworkd on the JD-Xi be it Techno/Dubstep/Trap/House/Electro whatever it has everything you need. You can check out my work for examples. 99% of my beats are live (i.e. No mixing)
Fantastic video (I think you just sold me a Novation Circuit), but… how on earth did you make a Groovebox ranking, and not place either an MPC or the Force? Must have been before you got the Force? And dude, Roland and Boss get mentions, but no 404 mkII?? Looking for a “first groovebox” to recommend to someone? It’s the 404 mkII, hands down. Unless they absolutely despise lofi for some reason.
I haven't unfortunately, I've only used stuff from the new wave of grooveboxes. It's great to see that they have some history behind them, and that now there's a bit of a resurgence of them.
I really like your videos because you keep it simple. I'm total Rookie, i've done a lot of fun stuff on a PO-33 and back in the days on Amiga 500 Pro Trackers, but that was LOOOONG ago. I found with the PO-33 that i still think its really fun and relaxing to create so i'm thinking of getting a more rigid sampler with real buttons, but because of my limited time it would be great if it was easy to get started with, especially when doing multipatterns. Would you recommend the number 1 in this video for me too?
If you're interested in sampling, I'm not sure the Circuit will be the best for you, as it can't do sample chopping or pitch them chromatically. I'd look into the Roland MC-101, the Electribe 2 Sampler, or maybe the Model Samples.
I'll have to give that a listen. I don't mean that you and get pro results from one, but making full songs is a pain because it's not really built for it.
I really love everything about the rc-202 or 505. They are just super cool. I wish I could properly justify getting one. Would you say you'd use the RC-505 more than the 202 if you owned that instead?
How do you jam live with the novation without being able to see the tempo without programming a hi hat? ❤️ I’m looking to use it to play live as a singer songwriter without programming all of the scenes beforehand.
Without any external hardware (Midi Synced Volca for instance?) that can act as a metronome I don't really think there's a way to do that. Maybe you can see some blinking going on on the beat? But that will probably be very hard to play in time with.
@@GabeMillerMusic Awesome, I kinda had the same journey as you but ended up at the Mk3 and am loving it so far. Huge boost to actual song production and still with a groovebox feel/workflow. :3
I have a few of those, Circuit and Microfreak. I sold my PO33 as I couldn't really get on with it. The Microfreak is my fave. Never fails to put a smile on my face. Also have a couple of Korg Volcas, have you tried them?
I had a volca beats & bass but grew tired of them quite quickly-the sounds had zero warmth, I’d seek more reviews before making a choice so I would only give them 6/10 but good for the price
I recently bought a circuit and have been having a lot of fun with it. I've started looking for a more standalone synth to pair with it and have been eyeing the Mininova. So far the only things I know I want is a polysynth, with an arpeggiator. Why do you recommend the Microfreak over the Mininova specifically (besides the $100 price difference)?
I only commented on stuff I currently own, and I've never used the Mininova, so I can't say which I'd recommend more. From a quick search, it looks like it's pretty different from the MicroFreak, so it really depends on what kinds of sounds and workflow you want. It is worth noting that the MicroFreak is not truly polyphonic (it's *para*phonic). I'm guessing either one is a great way to go though.
i was weighing up these two as well. The mininova's more comparable to the microkorg, I guess. But overall it's a more "complete" synth, if that makes sense, with the Microfreak, it's versatile but you're sacrificing quite a lot of standard features(more keys, effects, certain parameters etc.) for others. While it's not "fully" Polyphonic, I've gotten some really sweet Polysynth type sounds out of it. I honestly think you might be better off getting both at some point.
You don't have an Elektron Model Samples? I have a Circuit and Electribe 2S and Model Samples is almost like a hybrid of the two, admittedly the synth side isn't as intuitive as Circuit but the Model Cycles has that covered if that is your thing. Circuit was my go to for many years but probably now I sway between the Electribe and the EMS as my favourite.
@@GabeMillerMusic I picked one up second hand last year for a good price, I think you would really enjoy it and it is different enough from the others to keep it interesting.
Great post, what would you recommend to record on if I didn’t have a DAW? I’ve lost two Macs lately, one to a power surge and one to a water spill 🤦🏻♂️ So I no longer have a recording device..
Alexander, if you consider to continue without a DAW (I don't use one)...my top piece of hardware I would recommend is the Roland JD-Xi. I make everything from DubStep to Trance to Worldbeat to Trap on that synth. (and I've got over 25 synths/grooveboxes.). My set-up is essentially semi-modular...I still use a lot of my original hardware (Model D, SH-101, TR-909, etc) but assuming you are looking for a piece of hardware that will allow you to play full-on SICK beats....definitely check out that synth. It's definitely my go-to piece of hardware. p.s. I am actually new to the Circuit (I never thought it would be as strong as it is) but am about to really get crackin' with it--so I say "thumbs up" to everyone out there making their music with actualy hand-on playing vs sitting in front of a computer putting tracks together
I had a Circuit for two years and never really gelled with it past using it as a sequencer for other pieces of gear. Now, the Synthstrom Deluge... that's like a Circuit on steroids with a better sound engine and way more options. But my favorite right now is the MC707.
For me, it depends on what I'm doing. For portability, the OP-1 is hard to beat, especially with easy access to synth parameters, and its fun recording interface. I find the Circuit much easier to use with a PC, because it's really not fun to program synths on it otherwise, and I like a lot of immediate access to synth parameters. For bang for the buck, the Microfreak is one of the best. The Pocket Operators are fun because of their limits.
Great work man 👍🏻. love your content.🙏🏼 I also wanted to get a groovebox, as i want to move a bit away from the computer. And I find myself in a dilemma on which one to get(Novation Circuit or Elektron Model samples). What do you suggest?? or, if there is any other you'd recommend. P.S. i am totally new to grooveboxes
I got both of them. I would say they are complimentary, since the MS is more sample oriented (though you can also do some limited synthesis with it). The MS is great if you want a dedicated drum/percussion device in a live jam situation, so that you can tweak the individual drum lanes on the fly, add fillers, build a proper drop, etc. However, as a starting point I would definitely recommend the circuit first. It has a better synth engine and a work flow that is much more geared towards a music production sketch board.
I own the original korg red and blue Esx and Emx... might have to look into the newer ones as mine need servicing and not many people able to do it..... wish I could afford op
I really love the novation style pads and for that reason I love both circuits - "just circuit" and "circuit mono station". You can think of mono station as about bass station with circuit interface. As for other synths I love my Waldorf Streichfett. It's quite limited in the sense it's intended to produce only analog strings and pads but that job it does beautifully.
It has stereo output, but all the individual sounds are mono. So to get stereo width, you'll be panning parts around, rather than making sounds that are wide by themselves.
Electribe 2 isn't mono (you can Pan parts, of cousre) nor "low fi", It's got a very digital sound. I still like Electribe ESX best for playability, which would now be considered "low fi", especially with the tubes turned up. Look into Elektron and Deluge, as people have said
Yeah I totally forgot about panning, which is my bad. The Electribe does still feel more aesthetically lofi to me than the Circuit though, even though the stuff it outputs is pretty clean. I'd definitely love to look into the Deluge one of these days.
But 1st Im not sure if I should get a model samples to go with my Freak..... maybe a better combo possibly??? To be honest I just really wish someone would make one that can actually sample... Been holding out for a Circuit 2/sampler or something.
Novation Circuit is definitely a winner, but I was surprised to not see the Elektron Digitone in this list. Don't get me wrong - each to his own preference :-) (yes, I own and can comment on both)
@@GabeMillerMusic well you dont want to go old even though they are amazing like a 1000 with jjos2xl they have became costly.. I would strongly suggest a MPC One! Much more then just an entry level device. It has the same os as its bigger brothers. Can muti track rec all your gear at once and is a great sampler . Good fx as well. Cant go wrong with any modern mpc in the One , LIVE, LIVE ll , or X line
I made a new version of this idea fairly recently with a lot more gear if you're interested:
ruclips.net/video/-etjLzIyKSw/видео.html
What is the best device for cinect a boss rc500 loop with a akai mini mk3 that can bring power and sounds (keys/synths and drums for the pads) to the akai (l without a computer, Im searching for the best portable solution that can connect both boss and akai)?
How great the way you explain stuff and you speak. Congratulations and thank you for your videos.
Oh man, I love my PO33 so much. It's more of a way of "discovering" a song than making one with an idea in mind but I love that about it. It always kinda breaks my heart when people call it a toy because on one hand it is but I think that it's so accessible between being easy to learn and inexpensive that it's unrivaled for a lofi hip hop starter device
I really like the rythum the best, I swear its speaker is the loudest of all the operators.
@@whocarescamera3000 yeah I think the rhythm is my favorite too. So weird and full of life
Hey whats a good CHEAP responsive surface to tap out drum rhythms on with midi in Reaper?
Well done. After searching for a good month your review was the kicker to get me into the Novation.
It’ll be here on Saturday.
This vinyl spinning DJ/analog junkie is excited and freaked out!
I have a soft spot for the Electribe since I’ve been with them since their initial release. The Circuit looks like a winner as a starter, especially looking at how Novation has supported it through the years. The Micro Freak is a monster. The others fill rolls that don’t apply to me so they would farther down the list. I would add the Yamaha DX200, but they haven’t been made for years. Nice work on your videos.
My personal favorite Groovebox/synth/production machine is the Synthstrom Deluge. It's a lot of fun to work with, is surprisingly intuitive once you get past what looks to be a daunting interface (it isn't), is ridiculously portable, Synthstrom is very much into listening to user feedback, and has an amazing community behind it. It's the first thing I reach for to work on music anymore.
Second is Circuit, third is Digitakt...
I want a big boy version of the circuit, with a small LCD screen (so I know what the heck the knobs are doing!) and at least 8 tracks. Also a USB/sd card reader so I can plug and play samples straight from the USB/card, like my Octatrack. I have a bunch of drum machines and samplers (Octatrack, Digitakt, Akai Force, Toraiz SP16, Roland TR8s, Arturia Impact, Yamaha RS7000, etc) but the Circuit is the one I pick up if I'm heading to the sofa or bed.
Check out the Synthstrom Deluge
good boid you defo need to check out the deluge. I’ve got one it’s like circuit on steroids
good boid yep, you want a deluge
Except from the battery I would say that Mc707 might be an option.
As already stated, you've pretty much described the Deluge. Check it out if you haven't already, it's amazing
Awesome video but a quick note on the po 33.
I have been struggling to get into music production for a while, going straight to FL Studio and then giving up when overwhelmed with all the options. The PO was the device I needed to get into it, as I think it's a fantastic "beginner start here!" tool to understand sequencing, sampling, filtering etc. in a really tiny package. It broke it down to the minimum of what you need with only filters, some trimming and some volume and pitch adjustment, which, as you realise what you need to advance in music creation, you can then build on.
I'm now looking at the circuit because I took that step with the po 33 and that's why I wouldn't necessarily consider it a toy.
Just wanted to thank you again bro. I've been working with software for a while but I was debating between the circuit and mc101 and u gave me an honest opinion. I got it, I love it and its fun to learn and make mistakes on even. Good first piece of hardware. I've been looking at the microfreak next.
Cool! Thanks for the rundown! I am a Circuit guy, but I speak good and bad of it. The Mono Station with it's superior sequencer, perfect onboard synth to sound design onboard, and even the nice drum sequencing outcomes, make it the #1 winner, although not a full music production device. For that I would point to the Synthstrom Deluge alone. It is king.
I love my Electribe 2s, it's the first bit of standalone hardware I bought. I almost sold it until I realised I could use it to sequence my other gear. Now I have it sequencing the 2 synth parts of my circuit and my minilogue. It's not the best at anything specifically but for the price you get a pretty deep groove box with decent enough sampling that can sequence up to 16 other devices. It makes a great brain for my budget standalone hardware setup, I would highly recommend it despite the lack of ongoing support from Korg.
Thanks to Gabe and his usual unflappable knowledge of Music making devices and locking out for the "little guys" who don't want to break the bank going down the Rabbit hole..... the first major piece of equipment I bought was the circuit tracks and I absolutely adore it and now it's got my dream spinning. All the other possible that are out there and which one is next spend my hard-earned money on.... Twice the same Electribe2 is on its way and I sure hope I made the right decision ! .... although it's not the Synth version as i just discovered he recommends...it's on its way nonetheless. Fingers and toes crossed Folks !
Circuit was my first Groovebox. Hit the limitations quick. Upgraded to Elektron Model Cycles. Corrected all the gripes I had with the Circuit. Now I'm getting the Roland MC-707 soon as an all-in-one machine (sequencing, drums, synths, acoustic sounds, and looper).
Just going to add that the Deluge is the best single groovebox that I know. Your videos made me add a Circuit to my setup to jam with my brother
The circuit is by far the best piece of musical equipment I have ever bought. =]
Tracks or rhythm?
@@zoned7609 the novation circuit itself. The Tracks and Rythm are two different things than the "Novation Circuit"
Elektron model:samples. Amazing sequencer with a fast intuitive workflow. If it gets stale, just load it up with new samples. It has a ton of hard drive space. Single cycle waveforms for synthesis. I added an external AA battery compartment to the side port and I attached it to the side with Velcro. Now it’s completely portable too. With sample locks the six tracks aren’t that limiting. Also it’s class compliant usb allows me to plug it into my phone with the USB adapter and record over usb.
100% agree the samples is highly underrated! You can also create aggressive fm sounds by shortening sample length and turning on repeat or assigning LFO to pitch or cutoff at extremely high rates. It has its limitations and it's not an "all in one" machine, but it's much more than the lukewarm launch reviews, and with step parameter and sample locks, you can make some unique sounding stuff. My go to for industrial, dungeon synth, and I even use it at a 6 voice super drone box.
The core two pieces of my setup are a Circuit and an Electribe and I gotta say I think I'd like the Electribe a lot more if I had gotten it before the Circuit instead of after. Despite the limit to two channels in the Circuit, the 8 bars of sequencing just blows the Electribe out of the water, and I end up using my Electribe more as a drum machine and sequencer for my external bass synths than a production stations in and of itself.
Its funny too, because when first got my Circuit I liked it for about two weeks, and then became frustrated with the limits of only having two synth channels so I bought an Electribe. But once I had the Electribe everything I now love about circuit suddenly came into focus and it has been my go to device for nearly a year while the Electribe is something I essentially only use to fill out a track I already mostly finished on Circuit.
Gabe, thank you, this is very good review for dawless tool
That was a fun video, even though it is a bit in the apples vs. oranges department. And yes, the Circuit is the perfect entry level synth gear. It is so fully packed with basic stuff and still easy to access even by total beginners. It's simply already a modern classic!
Very helpful! Thanks, Gabe.
Interesting. I love my PO-33 for discovery, where for me it is not a toy, except for how quick and fun and immediate it is to use.
I love the KO 33 i actually think it can sound really good especially if u record it into a multi track and eq compress and I record it on to tracks and pan then both different to try bring a bit of stereo back into it
Novation circuit FOREVER👀
Now, with v1.72 on the MC-101, i'd love to see where is on your list now. Roland did a great job with updating the device and added so much convenience to it trough their updates. I think it should move way up now :)
Yeah it's a lot higher now than it used to be. At this point I'd consider my top devices to be a tie between the Circuits, the MC-101, and the MPC One.
@@GabeMillerMusic I am glad i don't have all of them! :) Have you never considered the mc-707? Or do you consider portability a top priority?
Would be interested to see how you might get on with the Elektron workflow, particularly a Model Cycles.
Nice vid! First time I'm seeing your stuff. Do also check out an Elektron unit (one of the Digis), and the Monome Norns.
over the last 4-5 years most of my main riffs, basslines an drums have been crafted on the circuit. i usually use the midi-tracks tu trigger synths with better sounds (but not always). Plus it is an incredibly useful tool for live performances, replacing ableton for me. snd it's still the cheapest thing i own.
agreed, love my Circuit for design and workflow, considere mc101 but sprang for the MC-707 and am SO GLAD I did. With each update from roland I am finding more and more ways to use it. Hooking up external midi keyboard to MC-707 and wow. Just needs a dang one bar count-in when recording!!!!
Great info on this. Appreciate your take on these boxes. here’s my take on the Boss Loopers:
I have owned and used the RC-202 for a couple of years as my go to. I recently moved up to the Rc-505, and after just a week with it, the weaknesses of the 202 are now very apparent to me. It’s not just the 2 tracks. The 505 is very straightforward and intuitive in its operation, whereas the 202 requires some very annoying menu diving. The multi-function buttons give the 202 many features, but that fact slows down the creative flow. IMHO, if you want do looping with a tabletoppper, save ur bucks and get the 505. The big brother is much more Fun, and it’s just easier to use, and with that, ‘nuff said.
Thanks! Love my circuit too, it is very fun once you learn it. Thanks for the awesome help and vids. :)
I got a Circuit for $200 AUD used about 9months ago and I freaking love it. Circuit is so fun you just want to use it!
Man I am not buying another groovebox for years, the circuit has so much depth. Some people are unsatisfied with the synth sounds being a little thin, but with the editor I’ve been able to EQ them to my taste (I boost the mids to 11 and turn those “pre-fx, post-fx” nobs to taste: it thickens up the sound quite well IMO). The reverb and delay are great quality, and I picked this up second hand for 170 EUR! I could pay that much for a reverb pedal alone that wouldn’t be nearly as satisfying.
What I would consider pairing with it is the Circuit Monostation: they’re designed to compliment one another, it just makes sense!
I do wish the circuit could play samples chromatically, and that it could receive pitch bend signals more easily, but again, you can map a macro directly to pitch and use it for bends.
As for the POs, I love the sounds off the Sub, and the lead synth on the Robot literally gives me goosebumps. The 33 gets too much attention ;)
Edit: I forgot to mention some cons of the circuit.
Need a 2022 version of this video. Since you tested many more device
I love my Microfreak, it's what got me back into playing around with music and made me look at other synths in different way as well. I just wish it had some basic built-in effects as an awful lot of them lend themselves to having some reverb or distortion. Granted for the price it's already amazing, but I get the feeling there's a lot of free space for more stuff in there looking at the unused preset slots and would definitely shell out for some extra stuff on it
My ko33 is really low fi but its great to get a 90s style sampler sound, its the closest you'll get to an old 90s sampler without spending thousands of dollars.
I just bought an OP-1 this morning. I already have the OP-Z so I am looking forward to make music in a different workflow
Enjoy your videos, new sub. With rumours of the circuit 2 going round, what would your ideal features list for an updated circuit be? I think having a family like launchpad would be interesting, so a Circuit Pro, Circuit X, and Circuit mini might be cool. Interested to hear your thoughts
I'd love a slightly bigger Circuit with a third synth track and the ability to do multitrack USB output like the MC-101, plus maybe chromatic sample tuning. A smaller Circuit would also be cool, although at a certain point, smallness leads to menu diving.
I just wanna say if you came here and you're considering buying an arturia microfreak it's worth every cent. Everything except 2 parameters can be modulated on the synth, you can even modulate modulations on the synth with ease. Also the filter is analog and sounds like butter. The arp sequencer is wild as well, and you can set mod parameters on your arp sequences, like so much potential and quality in a $300 synth
I am a week into the circuit and I am blown away
I'm wanting to create sound effects for a sci-fi movie. What machine would you recommend? Thanks.
Try the Synthstrom Deluge! It's really awesome to work with. It has all the percs.
I had the microfreak, returned it because of the dozens of bugs (the day I got my money back firmware 2.0 was released, it's probably much better now). I could never get that many interesting results with that expressive aftertouch keyboard. I felt like the 'aftertouch' resolution was only 4 steps or so, it was far from smooth and you really had to dial up that effect to get any noticable difference in sound. It was quite weird. Do you think that was a bug, something to do with dry skin or is that just how they are? I expected the normal 128 posiblities for aftertouch.
OttoNL I agree, the microfreak was not good regarding repeatable actions. Sometime it works in a midi control environment , than not. I sold it.
Different strokes... I play in a live electronica duo and I’ve tried dozens of similarly priced and sized synths and MF is my favourite by far due to the variety of sounds I can make and the speed with which I can build patterns and play over the top of them in a live situation. So I think it depends on what you intend for the tool.
It is possible to sample with the circuit?
You can load samples in as WAV files, but you can't directly sample into it.
Great video! I know about the OP-1 but not the Novation Circuit. It sounds like a promising device!
Hi! Thanks for your videos... I really learn a lot from you. But could you give me a hint which closed headphone is best with the Novation Circuit?
I read, that you can use the electribe to control upto 16 external instruments? Is that right? Because the 2 track Circuit feels very limited at that (and you lose the mininova synths).
Yes you can control 16 external instruments ))
Would love to see you get your hands on a Deluge, to see how it stacks up against your other favs,
Just bought circuit... will arrive in couple of weeks. Why you ranked it on top of op1?
Does anyone know if you can sequence other synths (like a Minilogue XD, for example) with the Circuit's sequencer?
Yep, you can as long as you have a midi cable.
@@GabeMillerMusic Thanks for the reply, your video really helped me decide on going hardware-first, trading in my midi controllers, and choosing a groovebox and synth to get started!
You said that the Electribe is mono only, but it definitely can output stereo. There is R/L audio out jacks on the back. Am I missing something?
Yeah there's a stereo output, and you can pan stuff left and right and get a bit of stereo with effects. But the synth engines can only provide mono sounds (in terms of the stereo spectrum, they can be polysynths).
@@GabeMillerMusic That is true, just as it is with the Novation Circuit. I just noticed that you made a major point about this in your video, as if this were something unusual. I am not aware of any true analogue synth (at least that I can afford) that generates stereo directly, it's always just the effects. I have a Roland JD-XA that supports stereo samples, but that is because it is a hybrid analogue/digital synth.
Hey, just watched this - I'm pretty sure OP-1 output is stereo, it even has panning controls in the mixer tab!
Yeah, the output is stereo, but the sounds are mono as far as I know.
@@GabeMillerMusic well... no! And I just checked. The spring reverb fuction is stereo and you can pan each of the four tracks individually to specific positions between left and right channel.
@@GabeMillerMusic or did you mean that instruments are only mono?
I love to go places and make tunes. The environment effects the sounds I make. I like your line up I've been using the electribe sampler. Cheers.
I wouldn't mind if you did a similar video but talking about apps instead of hardware. :) great video btw
I did a software video a while back: ruclips.net/video/wVQLuU1v1CQ/видео.html
Most of it still applies, except I'm using Reaper as my DAW instead of Logic after switching from Mac to Windows.
Honestly, calling the RC-202 a "looper" is such an understatement. It's a mixer, it's a killer FX unit, *and* it's a looper. You essentially get three things in one for $300, which is a killer deal for budget junkies. Then you can eventually upgrade to a better mixer and get even more functionality
Yeah it's a really impressive device, it's only so low on the list because I don't use it all that much for looping. I should probably change that.
So, as someone who has been playing a Model D since 1974, and is 100% hardware-centric (i.e. I don't use a DAW) was among the first "Techno/Trance DJ's" here in the south, let me give you my top advice for anyone wanting a synth that will give you virtually everything you want: Roland JX-Xi. Today 90% of my beats are made entirely with or partially with that synth. I also use an MX, and MOD...but have right now 20-25 synths depending on what I want to play.
Ironically, I just got the Circuit a few weeks ago. I've had the Monostation since it came out, and the Circuit really surprised me at how versatile it is.
But definitely go do some homeworkd on the JD-Xi be it Techno/Dubstep/Trap/House/Electro whatever it has everything you need. You can check out my work for examples. 99% of my beats are live (i.e. No mixing)
Awesome, I'll definitely look into it.
Very helpful!!! Thanks mate
Fantastic video (I think you just sold me a Novation Circuit), but… how on earth did you make a Groovebox ranking, and not place either an MPC or the Force? Must have been before you got the Force? And dude, Roland and Boss get mentions, but no 404 mkII?? Looking for a “first groovebox” to recommend to someone? It’s the 404 mkII, hands down. Unless they absolutely despise lofi for some reason.
This was an old video ranking ONLY the gear I owned at the time, which back then, wasn't much.
@@GabeMillerMusic Well I enjoyed it
Traded my OP-1 for a Deluge and have ZERO regrets Deluge workflow and sound quality is fantastic.
Do you use it standalone? Would you use it on a sofa? Why did you get rid of the OP-1? I am thinking of purchasing the OP-1...
Hi Gabe,have you ever tried the older mc groove boxes ie 303 505 808 and 909,I have them all lol.But also have the Circuit,cheers.
I haven't unfortunately, I've only used stuff from the new wave of grooveboxes. It's great to see that they have some history behind them, and that now there's a bit of a resurgence of them.
@@GabeMillerMusic Yes I enjoy them all but feel that I may need to downsize unfortunately.
keep up the good work, love your stuff, cheers from Scotland.
I have to buy a sequencer/sampler to use it with my arturia drumbrute impact. Wich one do you suggest (let me guess, circuit :D)
I really like your videos because you keep it simple. I'm total Rookie, i've done a lot of fun stuff on a PO-33 and back in the days on Amiga 500 Pro Trackers, but that was LOOOONG ago. I found with the PO-33 that i still think its really fun and relaxing to create so i'm thinking of getting a more rigid sampler with real buttons, but because of my limited time it would be great if it was easy to get started with, especially when doing multipatterns. Would you recommend the number 1 in this video for me too?
If you're interested in sampling, I'm not sure the Circuit will be the best for you, as it can't do sample chopping or pitch them chromatically.
I'd look into the Roland MC-101, the Electribe 2 Sampler, or maybe the Model Samples.
Good video 👍🏼
Gabe: "The PO-33 is neat, but is really just a toy, not a legitimate instrument."
[bsd.u]: *drops an entire beat tape using only the PO-33*
I'll have to give that a listen. I don't mean that you and get pro results from one, but making full songs is a pain because it's not really built for it.
Gabe Miller Music those constraints make it more interesting imo, but it is definitely more difficult than the OP-Z.
I got the sampler electribe and always wish i had gotten the synth
Get this man a Digitakt!
No Kaossilator in there?
What about the MPC one/live?
I haven't tried it, although I'd like to give it a go at some point.
I really love everything about the rc-202 or 505. They are just super cool. I wish I could properly justify getting one.
Would you say you'd use the RC-505 more than the 202 if you owned that instead?
+1 for the Circuit, however I usually record MIDI out to a DAW for better patches.
Can this control a DAW?
How do you jam live with the novation without being able to see the tempo without programming a hi hat? ❤️ I’m looking to use it to play live as a singer songwriter without programming all of the scenes beforehand.
Without any external hardware (Midi Synced Volca for instance?) that can act as a metronome I don't really think there's a way to do that. Maybe you can see some blinking going on on the beat? But that will probably be very hard to play in time with.
You can see the tempo, when you press the tempo-Button. The numbers are shown in a simplified way on the 4x8 Pads.
Very helpfull, thanks!
Have you tried a Maschine?
I hadn't at the time, but I have now. I've got multiple videos on the Maschine+, and I'll eventually do a couple on the Mikro as well.
@@GabeMillerMusic Awesome, I kinda had the same journey as you but ended up at the Mk3 and am loving it so far. Huge boost to actual song production and still with a groovebox feel/workflow. :3
I have to agree with Circuit at #1. Still my go to that I make my EPs, and performance videos with, and now I have 2 of them.
I have a few of those, Circuit and Microfreak. I sold my PO33 as I couldn't really get on with it. The Microfreak is my fave. Never fails to put a smile on my face. Also have a couple of Korg Volcas, have you tried them?
I had the Volca Keys for a bit. It sounds great, but it's fairly limited and I rarely used it.
@@GabeMillerMusic if you haven't already, check out the Drum. So much more than just a drum machine :)
Po33 is the best sampler you can get your hands on I will bet you will buy another
I had a volca beats & bass but grew tired of them quite quickly-the sounds had zero warmth, I’d seek more reviews before making a choice so I would only give them 6/10 but good for the price
I recently bought a circuit and have been having a lot of fun with it. I've started looking for a more standalone synth to pair with it and have been eyeing the Mininova. So far the only things I know I want is a polysynth, with an arpeggiator. Why do you recommend the Microfreak over the Mininova specifically (besides the $100 price difference)?
I only commented on stuff I currently own, and I've never used the Mininova, so I can't say which I'd recommend more. From a quick search, it looks like it's pretty different from the MicroFreak, so it really depends on what kinds of sounds and workflow you want. It is worth noting that the MicroFreak is not truly polyphonic (it's *para*phonic). I'm guessing either one is a great way to go though.
i was weighing up these two as well. The mininova's more comparable to the microkorg, I guess. But overall it's a more "complete" synth, if that makes sense, with the Microfreak, it's versatile but you're sacrificing quite a lot of standard features(more keys, effects, certain parameters etc.) for others.
While it's not "fully" Polyphonic, I've gotten some really sweet Polysynth type sounds out of it. I honestly think you might be better off getting both at some point.
Gabe: Today we're gonna rank my favorite grooveboxes
Me: Well we all know what number #1 is
You don't have an Elektron Model Samples? I have a Circuit and Electribe 2S and Model Samples is almost like a hybrid of the two, admittedly the synth side isn't as intuitive as Circuit but the Model Cycles has that covered if that is your thing. Circuit was my go to for many years but probably now I sway between the Electribe and the EMS as my favourite.
That does sound pretty sweet, I've heard a lot of good stuff about the Model Samples. I'll definitely look into it, time/money permitting.
@@GabeMillerMusic I picked one up second hand last year for a good price, I think you would really enjoy it and it is different enough from the others to keep it interesting.
Great post, what would you recommend to record on if I didn’t have a DAW? I’ve lost two Macs lately, one to a power surge and one to a water spill 🤦🏻♂️
So I no longer have a recording device..
A Zoom H1 might be your best/cheapest bet
Alexander, if you consider to continue without a DAW (I don't use one)...my top piece of hardware I would recommend is the Roland JD-Xi. I make everything from DubStep to Trance to Worldbeat to Trap on that synth. (and I've got over 25 synths/grooveboxes.). My set-up is essentially semi-modular...I still use a lot of my original hardware (Model D, SH-101, TR-909, etc) but assuming you are looking for a piece of hardware that will allow you to play full-on SICK beats....definitely check out that synth. It's definitely my go-to piece of hardware.
p.s. I am actually new to the Circuit (I never thought it would be as strong as it is) but am about to really get crackin' with it--so I say "thumbs up" to everyone out there making their music with actualy hand-on playing vs sitting in front of a computer putting tracks together
I had a Circuit for two years and never really gelled with it past using it as a sequencer for other pieces of gear. Now, the Synthstrom Deluge... that's like a Circuit on steroids with a better sound engine and way more options. But my favorite right now is the MC707.
What do like about the MC 707 over the Deluge?
I've had my eye on a circuit for a couple of years, but I've just never got round to actually buying one.
stuck between the MC101 and circuit ....hmmm....ummmmmmmm//advice? Love the idea of playing on the train or while my friends are on the phone
Either will serve you very well, although if you're new to this stuff, I think the Circuit will be easier to learn/master.
KORG ELECTRIBE 2 ROCKS
For me, it depends on what I'm doing. For portability, the OP-1 is hard to beat, especially with easy access to synth parameters, and its fun recording interface. I find the Circuit much easier to use with a PC, because it's really not fun to program synths on it otherwise, and I like a lot of immediate access to synth parameters. For bang for the buck, the Microfreak is one of the best. The Pocket Operators are fun because of their limits.
Great work man 👍🏻. love your content.🙏🏼
I also wanted to get a groovebox, as i want to move a bit away from the computer. And I find myself in a dilemma on which one to get(Novation Circuit or Elektron Model samples). What do you suggest?? or, if there is any other you'd recommend.
P.S. i am totally new to grooveboxes
I've not had a chance to use any Elektron stuff, but I can confidently say that the Circuit is a GREAT first groovebox.
Thanx man
I got both of them. I would say they are complimentary, since the MS is more sample oriented (though you can also do some limited synthesis with it). The MS is great if you want a dedicated drum/percussion device in a live jam situation, so that you can tweak the individual drum lanes on the fly, add fillers, build a proper drop, etc.
However, as a starting point I would definitely recommend the circuit first. It has a better synth engine and a work flow that is much more geared towards a music production sketch board.
I own the original korg red and blue Esx and Emx... might have to look into the newer ones as mine need servicing and not many people able to do it..... wish I could afford op
I really love the novation style pads and for that reason I love both circuits - "just circuit" and "circuit mono station". You can think of mono station as about bass station with circuit interface. As for other synths I love my Waldorf Streichfett. It's quite limited in the sense it's intended to produce only analog strings and pads but that job it does beautifully.
Good video. Although I do not own The Electribe 2 (blue), doesn’t it have 2 outputs? I thought it was stereo?
It has stereo output, but all the individual sounds are mono. So to get stereo width, you'll be panning parts around, rather than making sounds that are wide by themselves.
All I want is a mouse with a velocity sensitive button...
You should realllyyyyy take a look at the UnoSynth by IK. It sounds almost like a Moog
Do you ever try Elektron stuff ?...you should
jd-xi??
Electribe 2 isn't mono (you can Pan parts, of cousre) nor "low fi", It's got a very digital sound. I still like Electribe ESX best for playability, which would now be considered "low fi", especially with the tubes turned up. Look into Elektron and Deluge, as people have said
Yeah I totally forgot about panning, which is my bad. The Electribe does still feel more aesthetically lofi to me than the Circuit though, even though the stuff it outputs is pretty clean.
I'd definitely love to look into the Deluge one of these days.
I sold my Circuit and regret it everyday.... Im going to get another one for sure.
But 1st Im not sure if I should get a model samples to go with my Freak..... maybe a better combo possibly???
To be honest I just really wish someone would make one that can actually sample... Been holding out for a Circuit 2/sampler or something.
The RC202 is very underrated. For broke musicians it can work as a great jack of all trades (mixer, looper, and fx unit.)
Novation Circuit is definitely a winner, but I was surprised to not see the Elektron Digitone in this list. Don't get me wrong - each to his own preference :-) (yes, I own and can comment on both)
I'd definitely love to get my hands on some Elektron stuff in the future, I just haven't had the chance to yet, so I can't really comment on it.
I own 3 of units in your video and I think with better monitors your evaluation of sound quality will change.
What you mean about the Octatrack? It’s 10 years old, I know but till now the best Groove Device ever
I've not used it personally, so I can't really comment on it. Plus, best groove device will depend on what the user is trying to get out of it.
Gabe Miller Music The Octatrack is a masterpiece and powerhouse and much more than a novation Circuit. Test it....
I love my electribe
Same! It's an underrated but brilliant device
Think if you had an MPC it would have a good chance on being your favourite self contained device .
I've wanted to give one a go for a while... Is there a specific one you'd recommend looking into?
@@GabeMillerMusic well you dont want to go old even though they are amazing like a 1000 with jjos2xl they have became costly.. I would strongly suggest a MPC One! Much more then just an entry level device. It has the same os as its bigger brothers. Can muti track rec all your gear at once and is a great sampler . Good fx as well. Cant go wrong with any modern mpc in the One , LIVE, LIVE ll , or X line
I'll look into it, thanks!
I love the mc707 it replaced a rig of several synths. It should be cheaper, but I feel like it was money well spent