Elektron Digitakt vs. Polyend Play+: A Battle of the Beats

Summary: In this post, we’ll compare the Elektron Digitakt and the Polyend Play+ to see which sampler is best for your musical needs. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, we’ll help you pick the right tool to make your beats come alive.

Introduction

Are you ready to dive into the world of beat-making and music production? If so, you’ve probably heard of the Elektron Digitakt and the Polyend Play+. These two samplers are like magic boxes that help you create amazing sounds and rhythms. But how do you know which one is right for you? In this blog post, we’ll explore their features, pros, and cons to help you decide. Whether you want to make people dance or just have fun with music, there’s a sampler here for you!

Features Overview

Before we get into the nitty-gritty details, let’s take a quick look at what each sampler offers. The Elektron Digitakt is a compact and robust music machine introduced in 2017. Despite its small size, it packs a punch with 8 sound tracks and a bright OLED display. On the other hand, the Polyend Play+ is the new kid on the block, launched in 2023. It boasts a modern design with an 8x8 grid of velocity-sensitive pads and a high-res color display. Now, let’s see how these features stack up against each other.

A Closer Look at Elektron Digitakt

The Elektron Digitakt is designed for those who love a sturdy and straightforward music-making experience. With 8 tracks for sounds and another 8 to control other gear, it’s perfect for creating complex rhythms and melodies. The OLED display ensures you can easily see what you’re working on, even in low light. Although it doesn’t have pads, the buttons are responsive and easy to use. The built-in effects like reverb and delay add depth to your music, making it sound professional and polished. Plus, with MIDI and USB connectivity, you can integrate it seamlessly with other equipment.

Diving into Polyend Play+

The Polyend Play+ is a powerhouse packed into a sleek, modern groovebox. It takes a leap forward with an 8x8 grid of pads that are not only fun to play but also responsive to how hard you hit them. This feature alone makes it a favorite for live performers who enjoy adding dynamic expression to their music. The high-res color display is a treat for the eyes, making navigation a breeze. With support for stereo sample playback and a wide range of effects including overdrive and EQ, the Polyend Play+ offers a rich palette for sonic exploration. Its 16-track sequencer is perfect for those who love to layer sounds and create intricate patterns.

Feature Comparisons

Sound and Polyphony

Both samplers offer 8-note polyphony, which means they can play 8 sounds at the same time. However, there are subtle differences in how they handle sounds. The Digitakt records and plays back samples at 48kHz, providing crisp and clear audio quality. The Play+, meanwhile, offers 44.1kHz/16-bit stereo playback, which is slightly less in terms of sample rate but adds the advantage of stereo sound. If stereo imaging is crucial for your projects, the Play+ might have the edge here.

Storage and Connectivity

When it comes to storage, the Digitakt relies on internal memory, making it robust and reliable with no moving parts. The Play+, however, uses a MicroSD card, which allows for easier expansion and swapping of sounds. Connectivity options are also slightly different. The Digitakt offers MIDI In/Out/Thru, USB, and Audio Out, while the Play+ includes Stereo In, Stereo Out, MIDI In/Out/Thru, and USB-C. This means the Play+ might offer more flexibility, especially for live performers who need multiple input and output options.

User Interface and Controls

The user interface is where these two samplers differ significantly. The Digitakt’s button-based controls are simple and intuitive, making it easy for beginners to get started. Its OLED display provides clear feedback, helping you navigate its features effortlessly. However, the lack of pads might be a downside for those who prefer a tactile experience. On the flip side, the Play+ shines with its 8x8 pad grid, offering a hands-on approach to music-making. The high-res color screen enhances the user experience, providing vibrant visuals that match its modern aesthetic.

Effects and Sequencing

In terms of effects, the Digitakt offers reverb and delay, which are essential for adding space and depth to your tracks. The Play+ takes it a step further with additional effects like overdrive, EQ, and Master FX, providing a more comprehensive toolkit for sound sculpting. Sequencing capabilities are another area where the Play+ excels, thanks to its 16-track pattern-based sequencer. This allows for more complex arrangements and detailed sound design compared to the Digitakt’s 8 tracks.

Pros and Cons

Elektron Digitakt

Pros:

• Rugged and durable build
• Crisp audio quality with 48kHz sample rate
• Compact and portable
• Easy to use for beginners
• Seamless integration with other gear via MIDI and USB

Cons:

• No pads, which might limit expressive performance
• Limited internal storage compared to expandable options
• Fewer effects compared to competitors

Polyend Play+

Pros:

• Modern design with a high-res color screen
• 8x8 velocity-sensitive pad grid for expressive control
• Comprehensive effects suite
• 16-track sequencer for complex compositions
• Expandable storage via MicroSD card

Cons:

• Higher price point
• May be overwhelming for complete beginners
• Lower sample rate compared to Digitakt

Final Verdict

Both samplers offer unique features that cater to different types of music creators. The Elektron Digitakt is ideal for those who prioritize simplicity and durability. It’s perfect for beginners and intermediate users who want a reliable and straightforward tool to bring their musical ideas to life. On the other hand, the Polyend Play+ is better suited for advanced users and live performers who crave more control and expressive options. Its modern design and expanded features make it a powerful companion for creative exploration.

In conclusion, if you’re someone who loves a hands-on approach and needs a versatile music workstation, the Polyend Play+ is the way to go. But if you prefer a more straightforward and compact device that’s easy to integrate with other gear, the Elektron Digitakt will serve you well. Happy music-making!