I agree! I own almost all the machines he has got and as an expert I still feel inspired by him may times. Great videos. Just a curiosity: I’ve been always wondering where he’s from. His accent sounds perfect for me. For a non English speaker like me it’s a pleasure to watch videos with a perfect spoken English. Many great RUclipsrs have a strong or strange accent and it’s a little hard sometimes to hear them for many minutes. Not the case here, very relaxing and clear!
Very helpful breakdown. I ended up getting a circuit tracks, bc I can connect it via USB to an android running Koala Sampler and basically have a close enough hacked version of the circuit Rhytm for my needs but with unlimited sample time, Koala's amazing Samurai chopping mode, hands-on cropping with a little waveform visualization, etc etc but most impotent to me: POLYPHONIC chromatic pitched keyboard instantly for every sample as one of the Midi tracks. It's unreal that a $13 pro version of an android app ticks off so many "wish list for a future firmware update" items. Take note gear manufacturers! 🙂
@@AnomieDomine to me, yeah, Koala is a better sampler than Rhythm, for a lot less money. Polyphonic, better songwriting workflow, you can export stems for separate tracks to mix later in a DAW. Much more memory and more flexible. Tracks lets you do things that Rhythm doesn't, like portamento/slides if you want TB-303 types basslines, and you get 2 tracks of fully tweakable polyphonic synths built in. I think Koala and Tracks compliment each other better than Koala and Rhythm. Less redundancy between the two - they each get to play a distinct part in the process. Rhythm has more midi tracks avaialble if you want to control external gear, but they're all monophonic, which is limiting if that's your main sequencer, so it's not the best tradeoff.
I picked up a Rhythm due in large part to this channel. It's a new way of working for me but I really like it. I was eyeballing a Volca Sample2, but really wanted sampling and chopping. The MPC One was too much of a workstation, with more features than I wanted to deal with and higher cost. Circuit Rhythm was right in the sweetspot. Very impressed with the build quality. Very solid and knobs and buttons are great to work with. MIDI In, Out,Thru full size MIDI jacks is great. Wish list so far would include; Time-stretching, a screen-saver mode, Linux support for the Components app.
ThevMininova has the same sounds as the Trackd. So The Rythem wins, you will get all of the sounds and you can make samples from the Mininova. There all in the £300 $350 price range.
hm... I was thinking quite the opposite: the fact that you have chromatic sample playing on one and not the other is a no brainer to buy the circuit rhythm. BUT. It's monophonic compared to the tracks, which makes it less attractive. BUT. It has sample chopping and other features I would not want to miss out on. So for me it's not an option to buy either and also its no option to buy both. I'd like to have a device that combines all those features and has none of the downsides of both. Simple as that.
The Rhythm speaks to me, I mostly play piano and bass running through a mixer and some pedals. Having something to loop tha with and add some drums to sounds like a dream. If only the midi out was polyphonic so I could add a desktop synth without the need for a midi controller further down the line.
I love that there are stereo inputs on the rhythm. I often use the iPad as a sound source for the tracks, so I use the iPad as stereo with the midi controlling synths in AUM, then I put the audio out from the tracks into the rhythm and use them both as one machine. The circuit is master clock for the rhythm and I have program change on so when I select a project slot on the circuit it selects the same one on the rhythm. Then I have the circuit going through the sp 404 for additional live effects, sometimes recording, or compression
Dear Gabe, thank you for this great explanation of these two Novation devices. You were the only one who showed me these differences between this gears in such a short time. It was very helpful for me, THANK YOU! Best greetings from Vienna.
Thank you for this video. I really needed this, almost dived into buying both but it seems both of them are not quite there for me! Keep up the good work!
What would be cool and probably very doable would be an "Firmware switch upgrade" that turns the Circuit Rhythm into a Circuit Tracks or vice versa for a one-time fee. Then you can flip back and forth between the two as you need to. It wouldn't be possible to switch on-the-fly but it would certainly not take long to reprogram either device with the other ones firmware assuming the hardware is nearly identical (which it should be, as only the button labels and faceplate should differ.)
They put stereo inputs for sampling to sum both sides into one when capturing, whereas some other samplers convert to sample by extracting just using the left side only.
The reason for having a stereo in on the Rythm is to have another stereo input (what else than a Circuit tracks!) and feed that external sound thru the Rythm's Grid FX and main filters. This allows the Rythm to be at the end of the chain of you gears' audio signals.
So basically I want some things from the Tracks and some from the Rhythm so I have to purchase both, when the hardware seems to be basically the same, right? I have the Tracks (as well as 2 Base Stations and a Mono Station, plus various controllers, all from Novation) but I really want to play my samples across the keyboard (like that 'analog' synth patch you play on the Rhythm in the video is super cool - I want to be able to do that on the Tracks). So do I wait for a possible update that will enable chromatic sample playing on the Tracks - but that would eliminate the main differentiating factors between these two products and the main reason why anyone would purchase both? That update is highly unlikely. Anyway, why purchase both models when I can get a MPC One for less and which does all of this and so much more. Thanks for the video Gabe. Highly entertaining as usual.
Right. They're keeping the cost low because the $600 level is saturated by well-known devices already. I haven't opened them up, but I assume the hardware shares the same form factor (which is why the Rhythm has stereo inputs), but the circuitry is different, making some features impossible to apply with a firmware update on each device, which would go a long way in keeping the cost so low. Novation is really good at design. They make a lot of very intuitive, well-built products (especially at entry level), and I think their goal is to specifically not go against Elektron or Akai right now.
If I had to choose one I'd go for the circuit Rythem as I can make and get all the sounds on Curcuit Tracks because I have a Mininova. I can record the Mininova and have Tracks style sounds loaded into the Rythem as samples. If you don't own a Mininova then you can get free or low cost synthesizer apps on ios, android and windows at make the sounds of the Mininova or Tracks. Rythem wins the battle hands down. You don't need both.
I'd advise you get a Mininova and The Rythem, that way you don't have to have two identical looking machines and you will get all of the sounds and you can make samples from the Mininova. There all in the £300 $350 price range.
Great comparison, thank you, gets a 'sub' from me :). I could use both :) I like that I could MIDI my DDrum 4 and use the phenomenal DDrum 'drums' (from when they were Clavia-Nord owned) all without using a computer.
Novation seems to be milking consumers with these machines. I love the entry point for the price, but ins/outs aside, as a layman (I'm not an electronic engineer), it feels like they've purposely hamstringed both of these products so that they can each have their own niche. The pricing is great, but I'd rather pay a tiny bit more for all the features in one box. Oh and stereo sampling. Oh I just got to the point in your video where you said nearly the same thing (intentionally nerfed). Didn't think you'd mention it! Thank you for your transparency. MPC One seems to be a smaller footprint solution that does it all and more. I guess that part comes down to if you enjoy the Novation workflow over the MPC workflow also. EDIT: Lots of people in the comments mentioning the MPC One as well. I guess I have no original thoughts. LOL
Not really, Tracks is a Synthesizer and Rythem is a sample processor. Just like the Mininova the Tracks is desighned to be able to be used live or stand alone without the need for DAW or using the software plugin included. The Rythem is for home studio and needs to be plugged into a PC in order to load sounds.
Thanks for all you’re videos , Gabe. I’ve been watching your groovebox videos over and over again. I’m still torn between the Roland 101, Novation Circuit and Electribe. I need to make a decision ASAP.
I'm over simplifying massively here, but my understanding is: if you want a Synth, go with Tracks, if you want a sampler, go with Rhythm Edit: Ok he just confirmed this at about 11:00 minutes in
That's ultimately what it comes down to! There are a lot of smaller differences that come as a result of that, so hopefully this video makes the big picture and the more minute details clearer.
@@GabeMillerMusic The simple fact is Tracks is desighn for live profomers and it don't need a PC to get new sounds. The Rythem is for studios production and require a PC for new sounds.
thanks for this great info, about the 2 setups, a'm in to witchhouse, and looking to get some extra output in my sound now i only used vst in bitwig, like you want a way to leave the computer bit more !!!
Researching tirelessly about these machines, and other comparable groove machines. Two questions: Can you do any other time signatures? (i.e. 6/8). Also can you change chords on a composition playing live? Or putting together a complete song? Or change keys on the fly? Want to use the Novation like a back up band, playing complete songs. Are these ridiculous questions? Thanks to those who can answer. Macker.
I love my Tracks and was waiting for the Rhythm but bought an MPC Live II because I was impatient. I think the Live II can probably do more than the two of these combined. Saying that I might link the Live II with the Tracks and have some fun. Me personally though, I'd buy an MPC over either or both of these. Great fun though.
Both of these together cost more, and do less than an MPC One. You can get away with 95% of the feature set (plus more) with an MC-101. These are terrible value and deliberately hobbled to make you want both.
@@Gainn I hear what you’re saying but the interface is very different to an mc101. For me the Circuit interface is much more performative than the 101. It’s got more pads for a start so it’s easier to actually play stuff chromatically over a bigger range without having to be stuck in a key. They’re really very different in all sorts of ways. For reference in terms of grooveboxes I use a Tracks, Live 2, and a Force. All very different, but they all add something. I’d quite like an MC707 but can’t justify it … yet ;-) Value wise I think “terrible value” is a bit strong. Yes the MPC has for example lots more FX but ultimately there has to be an initial cost for the hardware and they feel solid in use. Light but solid. Consider the target market. Either beginner or someone like me that doesn’t always want to deal with the multitude of choices an MPC provides. They’re grab and play and I think that is where their value is. Particularly once you’ve learnt the interface which is super simple to use and very fast once learnt. There’s more to these devices than the specs and they do sound good. Certainly better than the og circuit (less noisy and punchier which may be the compressor). I also suspect that those that are complaining that one device can’t do everything would also complain if the price goes up if it was an ‘all in one’. It would then to be fair be nearer to the MPC One which would price it out of the market. It occupies a different place in the market and has a different workflow and that’s a good thing. The Argon 8 and Cobalt 8 are clearly similar hardware wise but it matters not. They’re digital devices. Diva and Serum run on the same hardware funnily enough but it doesn’t stop me using them. I digress. It would be nice if some of the features were available across both units and it’s clearly possible but Novation are a business. Not greedy as someone wrote somewhere in another comment chain. Laughable comment that given how much they support their kit with firmware updates. Anyway, that’s only my thoughts on multiple different comments which seem unthoughtfully negative. For the money these things are great. I can now pick up my Circuit and go play it anywhere and it’s got scenes! Who would have thought.
The tracks would be the perfect instrument if the midi tracks could double as additional synths and the drum tracks handled samples like the rhythm. This seems like it could be done via firmware update, please Novation.
Thank you for your tutorials on this awesome machines 😊 It helped me a lot, but i have a question… when i connect my Rhythm to the Tracks or vice versa the input levels are soo low on the machine that is the „Master“ - what did i wrong? I connect from the 6,3 Out to the 6,3 in. Thank you for answering my question!
Glad they've been helpful! If the Rhythm is the master, double check that the -12 dB pad isn't turned on. Other than that, you may have to contact Novation support. I've seen other people encounter stuff coming in weirdly quiet, and I'm wondering if it's a bug with a select few units.
Great review. Everyone definitely needs this information to make a smart choice between the two. By the way, wouldn’t it be nice if all the features could be combined into one device, even if it meant a higher price point?
I own both. My favorite is the Tracks. I wish Novation had opened up the SD card more. Instead of having defined, separate 'packs' of samples where you lock yourself into a sample set for the current song, you could have had these packs serve as isles in a sample grocery store. Open up a pack, browse the samples in that pack and then load a selected sample into the current project. I feel that would have made it much more useful. Of course the miniscule memory provided would make this no better than the current sample length limitations, but it would let you piecemeal a group of samples for a specific song from a larger collection of sounds. I realize I just described an MC-101 (which I also have) but sampling from live audio is so much more fun than over USB...
Yeah the Circuits can't stream sounds off of the SD card, they have to load a pack into the flash memory first. I'd love to see them update that, but even the MPC One hasn't quite figured that out, so I doubt it'll happen. Roland definitely gets points for making that feel a lot more modern on the MC-101!
As much as I love playing around with my circuit tracks (and I use it for ambient / film work not songs with beats), the BIGGEST issue with both of these is the MONO samples! Yes I know they both utilize stereo effects creating the idea of stereo, the units are essentially stuck as mono sample boxes. Not really useful for professional music work, also audio outs to a DAW is a major problem. I've processed a cool bass line then output only that one track into my DAW. I now use my CT as a pad trigger for samples via midi into my DAW (an expensive controller TBH with some extras for fun).
Maybe someone can answer this question for me. I have a Mininova. I love it. I bought a big pack of patches that are patches reproducing iconic Gary Numan synth sounds: like the synth used in Cars and Are Friends Electric. Since the Tracks uses the Mininova synth engine, can I load those patches into the Tracks? I am pretty sure they are sysex. I'm at work so I cannot check right now. I love the Mininova synth engine. I'm on the fence about getting a Novation Tracks. If I could load those patches, along with the Giorgio Moroder patches, into the Tracks then I would probably get it.
I was thinking "Wouldn't it be great if you could switch the 8 tracks between sample, synth and MIDI as required and then I realized "Oh. That's an MC-707"
Not necessarily, they're just monophonic. So if you want to control some drum machines or monosynths, you're good to go. Expanding a jam by controlling a synth with a chord mode/oscillator would also work.
Have you used your circuit tracks with your circuit rhythm much (hooked up thru midi)? Would you please do a video about that? Theres only one video on the topic I’ve been able to find on youtube. I own a circuit tracks and am considering buying a rhythm to help overcome some of the shortcomings of the tracks. I would like to be able to use both together to bring in rhythmic samples and have extra drum tracks.
Do I understand correctly that I, as a guitarist, will be more interested in the rhythm than the tracks, I don’t think that I’m interested in the synthesizer, because I have no experience using it, but I need the circuit mostly to create atmosphere and beats, I have a wide selection of guitar effects, spatial processing (various delays and reverbs, as well as a bunch of other guitar effects), my goal is to expand my capabilities in terms of creating music, including electronic. Or could the tracks be more useful for me? (Will I have to learn to play the synthesizer?) What advice can you give me? Thank you!
I'm a guitar player as well, and have long experience mixing guitar playing and electronic music. For a standalone device, definitely the Rythm. You can sample synth sounds if you need, and more importantly your guitar directly on the fly. Because your are a guitarist, you will end up sampling your guitar and experiment with effects, sequencing your chops.. Just endless creativity. If you miss a synth at some point, you'll end up buying one later.. And the endless GAS for electronic music devices will be your quest 😂
I own the OG Circuit and I can say without any doubt that from a functionality perspective you'd have to be insane to buy both machines if you can get an MPC One for the same price. These machines are each tailored for a pretty specific niche, which is how they should be approached. But as a duo to cover more bases? That's a hard pass.
What don't people get a simple fact. They look the same but are targeted separate market. Tracks is targeted to live profomers with live sound creation. The Rythem is for home studio where it needs to be hooked up to a PC in order to load new sounds. Tracks can be used without the need for a PC.
@@cepe740 The Rythem sound source is from a computer loaded on to it, its designed to function from being connected to a computer, the Tracks is not it can generate it's own sound from sythersizor and can be but never needs to be plugged into a computer.
................................................................................ @17:45 -"The sample time on the Circuit Rhythm is frustratingly short!" .................................You've expanded that frustration to me as you did not divulge the actual sample time! .............Is it two seconds? Twenty seconds? ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ ..............Ooooooooh, such a mystery! ;D ...Other than that, great video, thanks! :)
I've mentioned it in every other video where I mention the sample time so I must have just assumed I did it in this one but forgot to actually do it. Oops. It's 222 seconds. Long enough to get a good variety of sounds, but short enough to make loading/recording in long samples for chopping a bit risky (since doing that will eat up your sample time quickly).
I just need something to make beats with. I like the idea of the Tracks, but the Rhythm seems easier to use. I need something that stands alone, without having to use the computer. Thanks!
I want such an instrument in which I can take the tones of ableton in that hardware, and after making its pattern, I can save that pattern in laptop, and I can control that hardware with start and stop footswitch, what kind of instrument is this?
One thing I haven't seen discussed yet (although it probably has and I'm blind) is how programmable is the Circuit Tracks without a computer. Can you edit sounds and load samples through an iOS device?
So what's the actual difference in the hardware under the hood? Literally what's stopping Novation from releasing a single device that can be swapped between Tracks and Rhythm with a firmware reflash because the hardware UI is completely identical.
That's a question for Novation, I'm not sure what the differences under the hood are. Both Circuits are definitely built on the same foundation, but I imagine there are at least a few major differences to enable certain functionality (especially stuff like the recording of external sources).
There are a great many differences "under the hood". They're very different devices but do share some cosmetic similarities and we've worked hard to ensure they both adhere to similar workflow conventions.
They both share board footprint, I/O, (edit: including unnecessary stereo inputs on the rhythm!!) control surfaces, etc. The software also adheres to similar workflow conventions which to me screams "reused code" which itself screams "similar CPU architecture." Given the hardware similarities above, the CPU also probably share mounting packages because why the hell wouldn't you save money on board design costs that way. At best the differences would be that the tracks has more CPU power to support the synth engines and the rhythm has more flash storage for recorded samples. If I'm wrong and that the two devices barely share any of the above, I would be pleasantly surprised. But as it is, all I see is a company that made a good groovebox getting greedy and deciding to Pokemon Gold/Silver the successor and charge you double if you actually want all the features instead of just making one box slightly more expensive. I guarantee that in a few years we'll have our Crystal which combines them and the various firmware improvements.
@@NovationTV As much as I like the price point for the individual boxes, buying both together to get all the features we actually want doesn't seem practical. Any chance that you're going to bring out a slightly higher priced box that does everything both of these do?
So how are these Circuits with Maschine Plus? Like, is it a good to have a workflow connecting a Circuit Rhythm or Track with a Maschine Plus or is the Maschine Plus better off on it's own? I'm looking to get a Maschine Plus (I owned the original Maschine MK1 2012). I love how the Tracks has the ability to connect to external synths/ midi's because I just ordered the Kontrol A61 but the Rhythm has awesome Sampling (according to your video). Basically, I want a setup where I can work at the home studio (production) yet, be able to take it to a live performance and perform with. Thanks Gabe!
Yeah it annoys me when companies get greedy and do this. Reminds me of Korg Electribe 2 synth and sampler editions. There was even a hack to get the sampler ROM running on the Synth version (I tried it, and it worked, though it had some limitations - but proved a point - the devices were almost identical in hardware, the primary difference was software). I was always hoping for a Circuit Pro, but then found the Deluge (which I know you also use) - which is pretty much everything I had wanted a Circuit Pro to be, and much more! I still like the Nova synth engine in the Circuit though
@@mrclaytron Not really one is a synthesizer and the other is a sample processor. I already have a Mininova so I'd get the Rythem. The Tracks is for stand alone applications where the Rythem needs a Computor to load up the samples. They are not the same.
@@mrclaytron They are not the same and serve a different market. The Tracks is geard towords live performance and can makes live sound manipulation where as the Rythem is more for home studio as to use it properly it needs a PC. The Tracks does have a PC sound editor but it's not necessary.
@@HOLLASOUNDS haha, I know what a synthesiser and a sampler are. I own an OG circuit. Ive owned loads of synths and samplers over the past 25 years. I can see my post went over your head. What I am saying is THE HARDWARE is likely very similar. The primary difference between the two devices is SOFTWARE. These are digital devices, with microprocessors at there core. They run software/firmware to control them. You probably always know this - I’m just trying to make clear my point, because you seemingly misinterpreted what I stated. Korg released two groove box devices many years ago - Electribe 2 sampler and synthesiser. Sounds familiar? There was a hack where you could install the sampler firmware on the synthesiser, and it worked - because the hardware on the two devices was almost identical. Korg saw an opportunity to sell 2 devices instead of 1, using the same hardware architecture and design. I would expect the hardware on both Circuit Rhythm and Tracks are both similar - Rhythm likely has increased RAM buffer for samples - but I guarantee that under the hood, both machines are very similar, and the differences that make one a sampler and one a synth are mostly software related. It’s a smart move by Novation, but their intention is financial. They are a business. I’m not buying either of these devices - I like Circuit, but would only buy another one if Novation released a Circuit Pro, with sampling and synthesis on the same box. Take a look at the Deluge. It is already well beyond what a Circuit Pro would be anyway!
@@mrclaytron Spot on. I bought Tracks and Rhythm but am now selling the latter. I may keep the Tracks for some live work although the lack of even a tiny screen is a real shame. Deluge is on its way from NZ :-)
Thanks for the info. How about the BPM's. Are longer samples with a certain bpm usable? does the rhythm automatically set the tempo? And can you then also sync samples with other BPM's to match the tempo?
Thanks for your reply Gabe. I already had the Circuit tracks and somehow not having enough live fun with "live" functionalities. The grid FX seem quite appealing on the Rhythm for a non DAW live setup with FX so have just ordered one. I hope these apply in stereo for INs and OUTs ! 😅 Thanks Gabe 🙏
I'm taking a stab here, but I'm assuming the stereo inputs on the Rhythm is so that external audio can be routed and preserved as stereo? Or perhaps there are grid effects that are stereo?
On a related note, maybe I missed it, but I don't think you covered the fact that grid effects can apply to external audio/instruments that's routed in.... kind of a big deal if you're placing this at or near the end of your signal chain.
I'll have to double check the stereo thing to see if it works! Yeah it collapses it down to mono if recorded, but I'm not sure how it behaves if the audio is just passing through. And that's my bad for forgetting to mention that the grid FX affect incoming signal.
Hey Gabe. Help. Please. Lol. Ive made a few songs on my tracks with Uno synth. How do I record them. Ive heard a multi track field recorder or audio interface may be the way to go. What's the difference? And if I got with the field recorder can I audio in with a cable or does that mean I use the external mic. Dude thanks so much for all you do, you've helped me heaps. 😊🎵
You should be able to record audio in, or do something similar with an audio input on a computer. I'm actually working on a video on this topic because it's been super heavily requested lately.
Tbh I'm not *super* interested in it, since I don't like how much it relies on its touchscreen, but I do like how compact it is. We'll see, maybe I'll get around to it one of these days!
thanx for your videos! is it possible to use Rythm as a "hub" for external synths like Circuit Tracks?: you sequence exteranl synth and run its sound to same midi channel and you have it on mixer and you can apply effects. Can you run stereo channel through it? can you apply stutter effects on external signal?
So if you don't have any other external gear, does that mean that midi 1 and midi 2 on the circuit tracks are kinda just wasted space until you get other gear? (I've never played anything like these so forgive me if it's a dumb question)
I own a Circuit Tracks and i was wondering if you can connect this device to the Circuit Rythm and sync them up with each other ? If so i would love to know how.
@@HOLLASOUNDS I don't get it. If you have sounds on both devices i mean. Or can't you get any sound from your circuit rythm without a computer ? is that what you are saying ?
Huh, i feel like a ton of samplers still have monophonic sample tracks….. synths yeah, we need polyphony for a lot but a lot of samplers are mono per track… Opz, digitakt, model samples etc are all monophonic on the sample tracks… unless im mistaken 🤷
@@christianthompson1473 Oh for sure, I'm just surprised that hardware samplers aren't offering such a rudimentary feature that software samplers provide as a default these days
Nice overview . I am considering one of those two for atmospheric etc synthwave and I want to connect alesis vmini and theremini to it plus a usb soundcard with mic. Which one suits best? Thank You
Some people think it sounds dated... Too dated to be modern, but too digital to be analog. I can definitely see where they're coming from, but I think it sounds pretty good. It's also capable of a lot more gritty/heavy sounds than a lot of people realize.
I don't get why these companies won't just build what we want, ie polyphony, stereo I/O, sampling, etc. Granted, a few can accomplish these, but at a price of a down payment for a car.
Akai did it with the MPC One and made it relatively although, although to be fair, Akai and Novation seem to have different goals/use cases in mind with their devices.
@@GabeMillerMusic i just wish Novation would do it. I like the workflow of these devices, but didn't like the limited synth channels on the Tracks. I decided to trade in to the Electribe 2, and even with it's limitations and more difficult workflow, I'm satisfied with the amount of available options and synth channels.
The Circuit Tracks is a sequencer. It comprises two 6-note polyphonic synth tracks, two 6-note polyphonic tracks for external MIDI gear and, 4 monophonic drumpler* tracks. (*While the drum sounds on the Tracks are samples, you can't directly sample onto this machine). The Circuit Rhythm is a sampler. It comprises 8 monophonic sample tracks. The Rhythm can sample audio which can then be manipulated and stored on the unit. Samples can be played across the keyboard or sliced. Both the Tracks sequencer and Rhythm sampler share the "Circuit" RGB LED step-sequencer UI. Both the Tracks and Rhythm use the Novation Components app/webware to import/export content (synth patches and samples for the Tracks and just samples for the Rhythm). The confusing thing about these otherwise superb grooveboxes is why nobody at Novation thought to call them "Circuit Sequencer" and "Circuit Sampler." KISS.
Hey Gabe I'm thinking about getting an all in one groove box set up, what device would you recommend for someone who has never put their hands on anything before that is intuitive and easy to learn, but with room to grow? Thanks Eric
I've recommended a Circuit for a long time for a new producer, it's probably the easiest to learn but with room to grow. The MC-101 is also a good one to look into, although the learning curve is a tad steeper. If you have some cash to burn, the Maschine+ is a lot more powerful and is also about as intuitive as a standalone device gets.
@@GabeMillerMusic Thanks so much for a point in the right direction, I'm glad I found your channel. I was about to get the Akai MPC live ii, but looking at the tutorial my head was getting light. So thanks again Eric
@@prettylittlification Do you need a built-in battery? If not, I'd recommend the MPC One. Nothing beats it in terms of price/performance today. You can make full songs on it, it has the exact same software as the MPC Live II but at a fraction of the cost. Several excellent synth engines, a sampler powerhouse, built-in mixing abilities, countless of effects. The Roland MC-101 seems fun if you prioritize portability and ability to run off of batteries. It also has a great synth engine. That said, the track limitation is a real issue, just like on the Circuit Tracks.
Why not make one instrument with the combined feature set...make it a BIT bigger and a Bit more expensive...so annoying to have two separate devices with limited features...
Had the original circuit...had to sell it because of the Nova engine...just does not cut it...and am not going to buy the tracks because of that reason...and for a sampler...just going to go with a model samples...cheaper & better....Novation...up your game.
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The value this guy provides is insane!
Value? RUclips videos are free
I agree! I own almost all the machines he has got and as an expert I still feel inspired by him may times. Great videos. Just a curiosity: I’ve been always wondering where he’s from. His accent sounds perfect for me. For a non English speaker like me it’s a pleasure to watch videos with a perfect spoken English. Many great RUclipsrs have a strong or strange accent and it’s a little hard sometimes to hear them for many minutes. Not the case here, very relaxing and clear!
Why don’t they just call them „circuit synth“ and „circuit sample“ 🤷♂️
Very helpful breakdown. I ended up getting a circuit tracks, bc I can connect it via USB to an android running Koala Sampler and basically have a close enough hacked version of the circuit Rhytm for my needs but with unlimited sample time, Koala's amazing Samurai chopping mode, hands-on cropping with a little waveform visualization, etc etc but most impotent to me: POLYPHONIC chromatic pitched keyboard instantly for every sample as one of the Midi tracks. It's unreal that a $13 pro version of an android app ticks off so many "wish list for a future firmware update" items. Take note gear manufacturers! 🙂
Dude. Astounding comment, much appreciated, I'll do the exact same thing!!
So if I already have Koala (and Volca sample) does that mean the Tracks is a no brainer?
Edit: Rhythm $200, tracks $250 used
@@AnomieDomine to me, yeah, Koala is a better sampler than Rhythm, for a lot less money. Polyphonic, better songwriting workflow, you can export stems for separate tracks to mix later in a DAW. Much more memory and more flexible. Tracks lets you do things that Rhythm doesn't, like portamento/slides if you want TB-303 types basslines, and you get 2 tracks of fully tweakable polyphonic synths built in. I think Koala and Tracks compliment each other better than Koala and Rhythm. Less redundancy between the two - they each get to play a distinct part in the process. Rhythm has more midi tracks avaialble if you want to control external gear, but they're all monophonic, which is limiting if that's your main sequencer, so it's not the best tradeoff.
Congratulations on the sponsorship! I needed this video, just a simple compare and contrast. :)
Novation keep a eye on all socail Media in regards to there company. They pay attention to critics and use the info to creat better products.
I picked up a Rhythm due in large part to this channel. It's a new way of working for me but I really like it. I was eyeballing a Volca Sample2, but really wanted sampling and chopping. The MPC One was too much of a workstation, with more features than I wanted to deal with and higher cost. Circuit Rhythm was right in the sweetspot. Very impressed with the build quality. Very solid and knobs and buttons are great to work with. MIDI In, Out,Thru full size MIDI jacks is great. Wish list so far would include; Time-stretching, a screen-saver mode, Linux support for the Components app.
ThevMininova has the same sounds as the Trackd. So The Rythem wins, you will get all of the sounds and you can make samples from the Mininova. There all in the £300 $350 price range.
The fact that you can play chords on one and not the other is a no brainer to buy the circuit tracks. 💯
You can sample chords dummy
hm... I was thinking quite the opposite: the fact that you have chromatic sample playing on one and not the other is a no brainer to buy the circuit rhythm.
BUT. It's monophonic compared to the tracks, which makes it less attractive. BUT. It has sample chopping and other features I would not want to miss out on.
So for me it's not an option to buy either and also its no option to buy both. I'd like to have a device that combines all those features and has none of the downsides of both. Simple as that.
On top of that also allowing for many different scales/modes other than chromatic is pretty important
Yeah I'm still waiting them to produce a Mega Circuit that can do all of them...
They arent meant to do the same thing, it's not like the og circuit and circuit tracks
Thank you, very clear comparison! Exactly what I was looking for to understand the difference.
The Rhythm speaks to me, I mostly play piano and bass running through a mixer and some pedals. Having something to loop tha with and add some drums to sounds like a dream. If only the midi out was polyphonic so I could add a desktop synth without the need for a midi controller further down the line.
You getting sponsored by Novation, you did it! :D
I love that there are stereo inputs on the rhythm. I often use the iPad as a sound source for the tracks, so I use the iPad as stereo with the midi controlling synths in AUM, then I put the audio out from the tracks into the rhythm and use them both as one machine. The circuit is master clock for the rhythm and I have program change on so when I select a project slot on the circuit it selects the same one on the rhythm. Then I have the circuit going through the sp 404 for additional live effects, sometimes recording, or compression
Dear Gabe, thank you for this great explanation of these two Novation devices. You were the only one who showed me these differences between this gears in such a short time. It was very helpful for me, THANK YOU! Best greetings from Vienna.
brilliant pal appreciate the time you take to advise, you have such an in depth knowledge and understanding
Gabe even likes comments on videos that are over a year old. What a champ!
Damn, that was fantastic...might be the best comparison I have ever watched...thanks!
Thank you Gabe Miller and Thumbs up! 👍
Thank you for this video. I really needed this, almost dived into buying both but it seems both of them are not quite there for me! Keep up the good work!
Best choice for you is to buy the Rythem and a Mininova. You will have all the same sound possibility without having two machines that look the same.
@@HOLLASOUNDS Since i have issues with both of them (Rhythm and Tracks) - I don't think I will be buying any one of them
What would be cool and probably very doable would be an "Firmware switch upgrade" that turns the Circuit Rhythm into a Circuit Tracks or vice versa for a one-time fee. Then you can flip back and forth between the two as you need to. It wouldn't be possible to switch on-the-fly but it would certainly not take long to reprogram either device with the other ones firmware assuming the hardware is nearly identical (which it should be, as only the button labels and faceplate should differ.)
It would be even better to have a half and half
I kinda want the rhythm now
Your reviews of gear is enjoyable. So much so I bought something. Now I have to actually use it.
Glad they've been enjoyable/helpful!
They put stereo inputs for sampling to sum both sides into one when capturing, whereas some other samplers convert to sample by extracting just using the left side only.
Excellent! as usual! I need to buy me one ! 😃
Wow! Thank you man. Wish you all the best.
I’d love for Novation to do a take on a “proper” full sampler, a take on the Akai MPC One.
The reason for having a stereo in on the Rythm is to have another stereo input (what else than a Circuit tracks!) and feed that external sound thru the Rythm's Grid FX and main filters. This allows the Rythm to be at the end of the chain of you gears' audio signals.
So basically I want some things from the Tracks and some from the Rhythm so I have to purchase both, when the hardware seems to be basically the same, right? I have the Tracks (as well as 2 Base Stations and a Mono Station, plus various controllers, all from Novation) but I really want to play my samples across the keyboard (like that 'analog' synth patch you play on the Rhythm in the video is super cool - I want to be able to do that on the Tracks). So do I wait for a possible update that will enable chromatic sample playing on the Tracks - but that would eliminate the main differentiating factors between these two products and the main reason why anyone would purchase both? That update is highly unlikely. Anyway, why purchase both models when I can get a MPC One for less and which does all of this and so much more.
Thanks for the video Gabe. Highly entertaining as usual.
Right. They're keeping the cost low because the $600 level is saturated by well-known devices already. I haven't opened them up, but I assume the hardware shares the same form factor (which is why the Rhythm has stereo inputs), but the circuitry is different, making some features impossible to apply with a firmware update on each device, which would go a long way in keeping the cost so low. Novation is really good at design. They make a lot of very intuitive, well-built products (especially at entry level), and I think their goal is to specifically not go against Elektron or Akai right now.
If I had to choose one I'd go for the circuit Rythem as I can make and get all the sounds on Curcuit Tracks because I have a Mininova. I can record the Mininova and have Tracks style sounds loaded into the Rythem as samples. If you don't own a Mininova then you can get free or low cost synthesizer apps on ios, android and windows at make the sounds of the Mininova or Tracks. Rythem wins the battle hands down. You don't need both.
I'd advise you get a Mininova and The Rythem, that way you don't have to have two identical looking machines and you will get all of the sounds and you can make samples from the Mininova. There all in the £300 $350 price range.
@@tradrudeboy Get a Mininova and The Circuit Rythem, best choice.
This was extremely useful thx
Gabe: “you don’t need both…”
Me: “oh but I do Mr. Miller. I do…”
Super helpful, Thanks !!
Great comparison, thank you, gets a 'sub' from me :). I could use both :) I like that I could MIDI my DDrum 4 and use the phenomenal DDrum 'drums' (from when they were Clavia-Nord owned) all without using a computer.
How you like ddrum 4, is it good for techno based music, can u explain it, it to litle things about ddrum
Novation seems to be milking consumers with these machines. I love the entry point for the price, but ins/outs aside, as a layman (I'm not an electronic engineer), it feels like they've purposely hamstringed both of these products so that they can each have their own niche. The pricing is great, but I'd rather pay a tiny bit more for all the features in one box. Oh and stereo sampling.
Oh I just got to the point in your video where you said nearly the same thing (intentionally nerfed). Didn't think you'd mention it! Thank you for your transparency.
MPC One seems to be a smaller footprint solution that does it all and more. I guess that part comes down to if you enjoy the Novation workflow over the MPC workflow also.
EDIT: Lots of people in the comments mentioning the MPC One as well. I guess I have no original thoughts. LOL
Not really, Tracks is a Synthesizer and Rythem is a sample processor. Just like the Mininova the Tracks is desighned to be able to be used live or stand alone without the need for DAW or using the software plugin included. The Rythem is for home studio and needs to be plugged into a PC in order to load sounds.
Really helpful Gabe thank you :)
Finally sponsored 🙌😎
Thanks for all you’re videos , Gabe. I’ve been watching your groovebox videos over and over again. I’m still torn between the Roland 101, Novation Circuit and Electribe. I need to make a decision ASAP.
I know this is 2 years too late, but Circuit, hands down.
@@Antonio_Ortiz Thanks! I've had the tracks now for over 1.5 years and it's a definite part of my workflow.
That's awesome that Novation is sponsoring your video. How long have you had your channel?
I'm over simplifying massively here, but my understanding is: if you want a Synth, go with Tracks, if you want a sampler, go with Rhythm
Edit: Ok he just confirmed this at about 11:00 minutes in
That's ultimately what it comes down to! There are a lot of smaller differences that come as a result of that, so hopefully this video makes the big picture and the more minute details clearer.
@@GabeMillerMusic The simple fact is Tracks is desighn for live profomers and it don't need a PC to get new sounds. The Rythem is for studios production and require a PC for new sounds.
thanks for this great info, about the 2 setups, a'm in to witchhouse, and looking to get some extra output in my sound now i only used vst in bitwig, like you want a way to leave the computer bit more !!!
today proud owner of a Tracks, must say ooo man so powerfull this is !
Do you think Or can you see Novation combining both of these devices in the future. Or in 2023 👌🏽 love you channel
I wanna Rhythm, sampling is everything for me :D
What about controlling external samplers with the tracks?
I found a rhythm for 100$ is that a good price?
Definitely!
Researching tirelessly about these machines, and other comparable groove machines. Two questions: Can you do any other time signatures? (i.e. 6/8). Also can you change chords on a composition playing live? Or putting together a complete song? Or change keys on the fly? Want to use the Novation like a back up band, playing complete songs. Are these ridiculous questions? Thanks to those who can answer.
Macker.
Get the Rythem.
13:58 As far as I know Sync is Out only.....No mentioning of it being In anywhere....
So, get BOTH, for sure 😆👍
I ended up getting both 🤷🏻♂️. No regrets
Yes....you need both. :)
We CAN CHANGE THE 1 NOTE AT A TIME IF WE GET ACCESS TO THE CODE! EASY
I kinda doubt it's that simple, but if you ever figure it out, do let me know
I love my Tracks and was waiting for the Rhythm but bought an MPC Live II because I was impatient. I think the Live II can probably do more than the two of these combined. Saying that I might link the Live II with the Tracks and have some fun. Me personally though, I'd buy an MPC over either or both of these. Great fun though.
Both of these together cost more, and do less than an MPC One.
You can get away with 95% of the feature set (plus more) with an MC-101.
These are terrible value and deliberately hobbled to make you want both.
Best combo would be Mininova and Rythem.
@@Gainn The best solution is to get a Mininova and the Rythem. I have a Mininova so I'd get the Rythem.
@@Gainn I hear what you’re saying but the interface is very different to an mc101. For me the Circuit interface is much more performative than the 101. It’s got more pads for a start so it’s easier to actually play stuff chromatically over a bigger range without having to be stuck in a key. They’re really very different in all sorts of ways. For reference in terms of grooveboxes I use a Tracks, Live 2, and a Force. All very different, but they all add something. I’d quite like an MC707 but can’t justify it … yet ;-) Value wise I think “terrible value” is a bit strong. Yes the MPC has for example lots more FX but ultimately there has to be an initial cost for the hardware and they feel solid in use. Light but solid. Consider the target market. Either beginner or someone like me that doesn’t always want to deal with the multitude of choices an MPC provides. They’re grab and play and I think that is where their value is. Particularly once you’ve learnt the interface which is super simple to use and very fast once learnt. There’s more to these devices than the specs and they do sound good. Certainly better than the og circuit (less noisy and punchier which may be the compressor). I also suspect that those that are complaining that one device can’t do everything would also complain if the price goes up if it was an ‘all in one’. It would then to be fair be nearer to the MPC One which would price it out of the market. It occupies a different place in the market and has a different workflow and that’s a good thing. The Argon 8 and Cobalt 8 are clearly similar hardware wise but it matters not. They’re digital devices. Diva and Serum run on the same hardware funnily enough but it doesn’t stop me using them. I digress. It would be nice if some of the features were available across both units and it’s clearly possible but Novation are a business. Not greedy as someone wrote somewhere in another comment chain. Laughable comment that given how much they support their kit with firmware updates. Anyway, that’s only my thoughts on multiple different comments which seem unthoughtfully negative. For the money these things are great. I can now pick up my Circuit and go play it anywhere and it’s got scenes! Who would have thought.
The tracks would be the perfect instrument if the midi tracks could double as additional synths and the drum tracks handled samples like the rhythm. This seems like it could be done via firmware update, please Novation.
Thank you for your tutorials on this awesome machines 😊
It helped me a lot, but i have a question… when i connect my Rhythm to the Tracks or vice versa the input levels are soo low on the machine that is the „Master“ - what did i wrong? I connect from the 6,3 Out to the 6,3 in.
Thank you for answering my question!
Glad they've been helpful! If the Rhythm is the master, double check that the -12 dB pad isn't turned on. Other than that, you may have to contact Novation support. I've seen other people encounter stuff coming in weirdly quiet, and I'm wondering if it's a bug with a select few units.
Great review. Everyone definitely needs this information to make a smart choice between the two. By the way, wouldn’t it be nice if all the features could be combined into one device, even if it meant a higher price point?
Thanks! And yeah I've been telling them that, but I have no idea if it'll ever happen
@@GabeMillerMusic its a business model to 2x their profit and get you to buy both
I own both. My favorite is the Tracks. I wish Novation had opened up the SD card more. Instead of having defined, separate 'packs' of samples where you lock yourself into a sample set for the current song, you could have had these packs serve as isles in a sample grocery store. Open up a pack, browse the samples in that pack and then load a selected sample into the current project. I feel that would have made it much more useful. Of course the miniscule memory provided would make this no better than the current sample length limitations, but it would let you piecemeal a group of samples for a specific song from a larger collection of sounds. I realize I just described an MC-101 (which I also have) but sampling from live audio is so much more fun than over USB...
Yeah the Circuits can't stream sounds off of the SD card, they have to load a pack into the flash memory first. I'd love to see them update that, but even the MPC One hasn't quite figured that out, so I doubt it'll happen. Roland definitely gets points for making that feel a lot more modern on the MC-101!
@@GabeMillerMusic Model samples has pulled this off i'm pretty sure btw
so difficult to choose between model sample elektron, circuit tracks or rythm, volca sample 2, mc 101, digitakt, mpc one etc....
I have a Mininova so I'd get the Rythem only and not Tracks as no point having two machines sound the same.
As much as I love playing around with my circuit tracks (and I use it for ambient / film work not songs with beats), the BIGGEST issue with both of these is the MONO samples! Yes I know they both utilize stereo effects creating the idea of stereo, the units are essentially stuck as mono sample boxes. Not really useful for professional music work, also audio outs to a DAW is a major problem. I've processed a cool bass line then output only that one track into my DAW. I now use my CT as a pad trigger for samples via midi into my DAW (an expensive controller TBH with some extras for fun).
Mininova with the Rythem is a better choice.
Maybe someone can answer this question for me. I have a Mininova. I love it. I bought a big pack of patches that are patches reproducing iconic Gary Numan synth sounds: like the synth used in Cars and Are Friends Electric. Since the Tracks uses the Mininova synth engine, can I load those patches into the Tracks? I am pretty sure they are sysex. I'm at work so I cannot check right now.
I love the Mininova synth engine. I'm on the fence about getting a Novation Tracks. If I could load those patches, along with the Giorgio Moroder patches, into the Tracks then I would probably get it.
How is it you are so fine AND so talented musically??
Can you insert chords or single notes in step midi sequencing using an external keyboard? Thanks!
I was thinking "Wouldn't it be great if you could switch the 8 tracks between sample, synth and MIDI as required and then I realized "Oh. That's an MC-707"
Haha yeah pretty much. Now if only it was better at chopping samples...
Circuit rythm have an editor ?
Can you export trackouts
?
No, unfortunately. I've been begging Novation to add that for ages lol
So the midi ports on the rythm basically are just for show?
Not necessarily, they're just monophonic. So if you want to control some drum machines or monosynths, you're good to go. Expanding a jam by controlling a synth with a chord mode/oscillator would also work.
Novation has a 3rd option; Ampify GrooveBox on the iPad. How does a software app Groovebox compare to a hardware device?
Have you used your circuit tracks with your circuit rhythm much (hooked up thru midi)? Would you please do a video about that? Theres only one video on the topic I’ve been able to find on youtube.
I own a circuit tracks and am considering buying a rhythm to help overcome some of the shortcomings of the tracks. I would like to be able to use both together to bring in rhythmic samples and have extra drum tracks.
I am considering doing the same thing in the very near future. But, I need to buy some other gear first.
@@LauraSquirrel I ended up buying an sp404mk2 and I absolutely love it
Do I understand correctly that I, as a guitarist, will be more interested in the rhythm than the tracks, I don’t think that I’m interested in the synthesizer, because I have no experience using it, but I need the circuit mostly to create atmosphere and beats, I have a wide selection of guitar effects, spatial processing (various delays and reverbs, as well as a bunch of other guitar effects), my goal is to expand my capabilities in terms of creating music, including electronic. Or could the tracks be more useful for me? (Will I have to learn to play the synthesizer?) What advice can you give me? Thank you!
I'm a guitar player as well, and have long experience mixing guitar playing and electronic music. For a standalone device, definitely the Rythm. You can sample synth sounds if you need, and more importantly your guitar directly on the fly.
Because your are a guitarist, you will end up sampling your guitar and experiment with effects, sequencing your chops.. Just endless creativity.
If you miss a synth at some point, you'll end up buying one later..
And the endless GAS for electronic music devices will be your quest 😂
good review, Rythm not available in france shop, damn...
I own the OG Circuit and I can say without any doubt that from a functionality perspective you'd have to be insane to buy both machines if you can get an MPC One for the same price. These machines are each tailored for a pretty specific niche, which is how they should be approached. But as a duo to cover more bases? That's a hard pass.
They did hobble them so people 'need' both. An MPC One can do more for less money.
Even the MC-101 destroys these on 95% of the features.
What don't people get a simple fact. They look the same but are targeted separate market. Tracks is targeted to live profomers with live sound creation. The Rythem is for home studio where it needs to be hooked up to a PC in order to load new sounds. Tracks can be used without the need for a PC.
@@HOLLASOUNDS once you load sound into rhythem can’t you use it live like the circuit?
@@cepe740 The Rythem sound source is from a computer loaded on to it, its designed to function from being connected to a computer, the Tracks is not it can generate it's own sound from sythersizor and can be but never needs to be plugged into a computer.
Question Gabe, how much value would you find by using both of these on conjunction?
................................................................................ @17:45 -"The sample time on the Circuit Rhythm is frustratingly short!" .................................You've expanded that frustration to me as you did not divulge the actual sample time! .............Is it two seconds? Twenty seconds? ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ ..............Ooooooooh, such a mystery! ;D
...Other than that, great video, thanks! :)
I've mentioned it in every other video where I mention the sample time so I must have just assumed I did it in this one but forgot to actually do it. Oops. It's 222 seconds. Long enough to get a good variety of sounds, but short enough to make loading/recording in long samples for chopping a bit risky (since doing that will eat up your sample time quickly).
I just need something to make beats with. I like the idea of the Tracks, but the Rhythm seems easier to use. I need something that stands alone, without having to use the computer. Thanks!
I think tracks is best for me
I want such an instrument in which I can take the tones of ableton in that hardware, and after making its pattern, I can save that pattern in laptop, and I can control that hardware with start and stop footswitch, what kind of instrument is this?
One thing I haven't seen discussed yet (although it probably has and I'm blind) is how programmable is the Circuit Tracks without a computer. Can you edit sounds and load samples through an iOS device?
Try the Toraiz Squid 🐙👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
Do you think I need to buy both ?
So what's the actual difference in the hardware under the hood? Literally what's stopping Novation from releasing a single device that can be swapped between Tracks and Rhythm with a firmware reflash because the hardware UI is completely identical.
That's a question for Novation, I'm not sure what the differences under the hood are. Both Circuits are definitely built on the same foundation, but I imagine there are at least a few major differences to enable certain functionality (especially stuff like the recording of external sources).
There are a great many differences "under the hood". They're very different devices but do share some cosmetic similarities and we've worked hard to ensure they both adhere to similar workflow conventions.
@@NovationTV okay, and what exactly are those differences? Because I straight up don't believe you.
They both share board footprint, I/O, (edit: including unnecessary stereo inputs on the rhythm!!) control surfaces, etc.
The software also adheres to similar workflow conventions which to me screams "reused code" which itself screams "similar CPU architecture." Given the hardware similarities above, the CPU also probably share mounting packages because why the hell wouldn't you save money on board design costs that way.
At best the differences would be that the tracks has more CPU power to support the synth engines and the rhythm has more flash storage for recorded samples.
If I'm wrong and that the two devices barely share any of the above, I would be pleasantly surprised. But as it is, all I see is a company that made a good groovebox getting greedy and deciding to Pokemon Gold/Silver the successor and charge you double if you actually want all the features instead of just making one box slightly more expensive. I guarantee that in a few years we'll have our Crystal which combines them and the various firmware improvements.
@@NovationTV As much as I like the price point for the individual boxes, buying both together to get all the features we actually want doesn't seem practical. Any chance that you're going to bring out a slightly higher priced box that does everything both of these do?
So how are these Circuits with Maschine Plus? Like, is it a good to have a workflow connecting a Circuit Rhythm or Track with a Maschine Plus or is the Maschine Plus better off on it's own? I'm looking to get a Maschine Plus (I owned the original Maschine MK1 2012). I love how the Tracks has the ability to connect to external synths/ midi's because I just ordered the Kontrol A61 but the Rhythm has awesome Sampling (according to your video). Basically, I want a setup where I can work at the home studio (production) yet, be able to take it to a live performance and perform with. Thanks Gabe!
Again, there's no reason to divide the functions between two identical machines! software synths aren't limited by analog components...
Yeah it annoys me when companies get greedy and do this. Reminds me of Korg Electribe 2 synth and sampler editions. There was even a hack to get the sampler ROM running on the Synth version (I tried it, and it worked, though it had some limitations - but proved a point - the devices were almost identical in hardware, the primary difference was software). I was always hoping for a Circuit Pro, but then found the Deluge (which I know you also use) - which is pretty much everything I had wanted a Circuit Pro to be, and much more! I still like the Nova synth engine in the Circuit though
@@mrclaytron Not really one is a synthesizer and the other is a sample processor. I already have a Mininova so I'd get the Rythem. The Tracks is for stand alone applications where the Rythem needs a Computor to load up the samples. They are not the same.
@@mrclaytron They are not the same and serve a different market. The Tracks is geard towords live performance and can makes live sound manipulation where as the Rythem is more for home studio as to use it properly it needs a PC. The Tracks does have a PC sound editor but it's not necessary.
@@HOLLASOUNDS haha, I know what a synthesiser and a sampler are.
I own an OG circuit. Ive owned loads of synths and samplers over the past 25 years. I can see my post went over your head.
What I am saying is THE HARDWARE is likely very similar. The primary difference between the two devices is SOFTWARE. These are digital devices, with microprocessors at there core. They run software/firmware to control them. You probably always know this - I’m just trying to make clear my point, because you seemingly misinterpreted what I stated.
Korg released two groove box devices many years ago - Electribe 2 sampler and synthesiser. Sounds familiar? There was a hack where you could install the sampler firmware on the synthesiser, and it worked - because the hardware on the two devices was almost identical. Korg saw an opportunity to sell 2 devices instead of 1, using the same hardware architecture and design.
I would expect the hardware on both Circuit Rhythm and Tracks are both similar - Rhythm likely has increased RAM buffer for samples - but I guarantee that under the hood, both machines are very similar, and the differences that make one a sampler and one a synth are mostly software related. It’s a smart move by Novation, but their intention is financial. They are a business.
I’m not buying either of these devices - I like Circuit, but would only buy another one if Novation released a Circuit Pro, with sampling and synthesis on the same box. Take a look at the Deluge. It is already well beyond what a Circuit Pro would be anyway!
@@mrclaytron Spot on. I bought Tracks and Rhythm but am now selling the latter. I may keep the Tracks for some live work although the lack of even a tiny screen is a real shame. Deluge is on its way from NZ :-)
Thanks for the info. How about the BPM's. Are longer samples with a certain bpm usable? does the rhythm automatically set the tempo? And can you then also sync samples with other BPM's to match the tempo?
Hi Gabe,
do you know if it is possible to apply FX on the incoming audio on the Circuit Rhythm?
(it's not clear from the comment in the video)
Only grid effects, you can't apply sidechain or reverb/delay to incoming audio with the Rhythm, only the Tracks
Thanks for your reply Gabe.
I already had the Circuit tracks and somehow not having enough live fun with "live" functionalities. The grid FX seem quite appealing on the Rhythm for a non DAW live setup with FX so have just ordered one. I hope these apply in stereo for INs and OUTs ! 😅 Thanks Gabe 🙏
I'm taking a stab here, but I'm assuming the stereo inputs on the Rhythm is so that external audio can be routed and preserved as stereo? Or perhaps there are grid effects that are stereo?
On a related note, maybe I missed it, but I don't think you covered the fact that grid effects can apply to external audio/instruments that's routed in.... kind of a big deal if you're placing this at or near the end of your signal chain.
I'll have to double check the stereo thing to see if it works! Yeah it collapses it down to mono if recorded, but I'm not sure how it behaves if the audio is just passing through.
And that's my bad for forgetting to mention that the grid FX affect incoming signal.
Hey Gabe. Help. Please. Lol. Ive made a few songs on my tracks with Uno synth. How do I record them. Ive heard a multi track field recorder or audio interface may be the way to go. What's the difference? And if I got with the field recorder can I audio in with a cable or does that mean I use the external mic.
Dude thanks so much for all you do, you've helped me heaps.
😊🎵
You should be able to record audio in, or do something similar with an audio input on a computer. I'm actually working on a video on this topic because it's been super heavily requested lately.
@@GabeMillerMusic Thanks heaps Gabe. Saved me again! 🙏
Something tells me these things are identical hardware-wise…ffs just make them 1 thing
Review the 1010 Black Box please.
Tbh I'm not *super* interested in it, since I don't like how much it relies on its touchscreen, but I do like how compact it is. We'll see, maybe I'll get around to it one of these days!
How many plugin synths can i play on this at same time via midi keyboard? Can i play through the drum channels , i have a separate drum machine?
thanx for your videos!
is it possible to use Rythm as a "hub" for external synths like Circuit Tracks?:
you sequence exteranl synth and run its sound to same midi channel and you have it on mixer and you can apply effects. Can you run stereo channel through it?
can you apply stutter effects on external signal?
Does the Circuit Tracks function as a MIDI controller as well? I'm interested in getting it, but I want to be able to use it with software synths.
seems like if these were maybe in the same box, circuit might seem like less underpowered.
So if you don't have any other external gear, does that mean that midi 1 and midi 2 on the circuit tracks are kinda just wasted space until you get other gear? (I've never played anything like these so forgive me if it's a dumb question)
I own a Circuit Tracks and i was wondering if you can connect this device to the Circuit Rythm and sync them up with each other ? If so i would love to know how.
No you need a PC to load sounds onto the Rythem.
@@HOLLASOUNDS I don't get it.
If you have sounds on both devices i mean.
Or can't you get any sound from your circuit rythm without a computer ? is that what you are saying ?
I'm SHOCKED the Rhythm can't do polyphony, that's like the first thing people look at when shopping for samplers these days!
Huh, i feel like a ton of samplers still have monophonic sample tracks….. synths yeah, we need polyphony for a lot but a lot of samplers are mono per track…
Opz, digitakt, model samples etc are all monophonic on the sample tracks… unless im mistaken 🤷
You could do triads using 3 tracks then resample it.
@@christianthompson1473 It’s not the same as being able to play a sample chromatically with polyphony though, plus you risk gradual degradation
@@Toolsquatch i agree, but it can sound good. Often i find compromises bring new ideas and different, cool sounds.
@@christianthompson1473 Oh for sure, I'm just surprised that hardware samplers aren't offering such a rudimentary feature that software samplers provide as a default these days
Nice overview . I am considering one of those two for atmospheric etc synthwave and I want to connect alesis vmini and theremini to it plus a usb soundcard with mic. Which one suits best?
Thank You
Give it a minute...because if you buy one (Tracks or Rhythm) the next one will be a combo.
Na buy the Mininova and Rythem, best of both worlds.
For me rhythm is too close to the mpc used prices to be a good option
i bought the tracks but i’m now thinking i should’ve waiting for a super circuit or something that combines the two
you,ll be waiting 4ever
Someone needs to explain to me all the hate that the synth tracks get on the circuit and the tracks... I think its a pretty dope synth engine.
Some people think it sounds dated... Too dated to be modern, but too digital to be analog. I can definitely see where they're coming from, but I think it sounds pretty good. It's also capable of a lot more gritty/heavy sounds than a lot of people realize.
I don't get why these companies won't just build what we want, ie polyphony, stereo I/O, sampling, etc. Granted, a few can accomplish these, but at a price of a down payment for a car.
Akai did it with the MPC One and made it relatively although, although to be fair, Akai and Novation seem to have different goals/use cases in mind with their devices.
@@GabeMillerMusic i just wish Novation would do it. I like the workflow of these devices, but didn't like the limited synth channels on the Tracks. I decided to trade in to the Electribe 2, and even with it's limitations and more difficult workflow, I'm satisfied with the amount of available options and synth channels.
The Circuit Tracks is a sequencer. It comprises two 6-note polyphonic synth tracks, two 6-note polyphonic tracks for external MIDI gear and, 4 monophonic drumpler* tracks. (*While the drum sounds on the Tracks are samples, you can't directly sample onto this machine). The Circuit Rhythm is a sampler. It comprises 8 monophonic sample tracks. The Rhythm can sample audio which can then be manipulated and stored on the unit. Samples can be played across the keyboard or sliced. Both the Tracks sequencer and Rhythm sampler share the "Circuit" RGB LED step-sequencer UI. Both the Tracks and Rhythm use the Novation Components app/webware to import/export content (synth patches and samples for the Tracks and just samples for the Rhythm). The confusing thing about these otherwise superb grooveboxes is why nobody at Novation thought to call them "Circuit Sequencer" and "Circuit Sampler." KISS.
Yeah, that’s what he says in the video…
I got a device.
Anyone
Hey Gabe I'm thinking about getting an all in one groove box set up, what device would you recommend for someone who has never put their hands on anything before that is intuitive and easy to learn, but with room to grow? Thanks Eric
I've recommended a Circuit for a long time for a new producer, it's probably the easiest to learn but with room to grow. The MC-101 is also a good one to look into, although the learning curve is a tad steeper. If you have some cash to burn, the Maschine+ is a lot more powerful and is also about as intuitive as a standalone device gets.
MPC One. :-) Not so easy but that's because it does all of this and more.
@@GabeMillerMusic Thanks so much for a point in the right direction, I'm glad I found your channel. I was about to get the Akai MPC live ii, but looking at the tutorial my head was getting light. So thanks again Eric
Who makes the Machine + I'm having a hard time tracking it down, do you have a link perhaps?
@@prettylittlification Do you need a built-in battery? If not, I'd recommend the MPC One. Nothing beats it in terms of price/performance today. You can make full songs on it, it has the exact same software as the MPC Live II but at a fraction of the cost. Several excellent synth engines, a sampler powerhouse, built-in mixing abilities, countless of effects.
The Roland MC-101 seems fun if you prioritize portability and ability to run off of batteries. It also has a great synth engine. That said, the track limitation is a real issue, just like on the Circuit Tracks.
Why not make one instrument with the combined feature set...make it a BIT bigger and a Bit more expensive...so annoying to have two separate devices with limited features...
Had the original circuit...had to sell it because of the Nova engine...just does not cut it...and am not going to buy the tracks because of that reason...and for a sampler...just going to go with a model samples...cheaper & better....Novation...up your game.