Elektron Digitakt —  VS  — Polyend Tracker

Elektron Digitakt vs. Polyend Tracker: Which Sampler is Right for You?

Welcome to our in-depth comparison of two popular samplers: the Elektron Digitakt and the Polyend Tracker. Whether you’re a music producer, a beatmaker, or just a music enthusiast, choosing the right sampler can make a big difference in your creative process. In this post, we’ll explore the features, pros, and cons of these two devices to help you decide which one is best for your needs.

Introduction

Sampling is a huge part of music production today. It allows you to take sounds from different sources and turn them into something new. Two samplers that have caught the attention of musicians are the Elektron Digitakt and the Polyend Tracker. Both offer unique features and workflows, but which one should you choose? Let’s dive in and find out!

Feature Comparison

Build and Design

The Elektron Digitakt is a compact drum machine and sampler with a sleek desktop design. It doesn’t have pads; instead, it uses buttons for input. This can be great if you prefer a more structured way of creating beats. With its OLED display, the Digitakt offers a clear and bright view of your settings and samples.

On the other hand, the Polyend Tracker is a tracker-style sampler. It also uses buttons for input, staying true to the classic tracker design inspired by old-school computer music software. Its larger LCD display provides a comprehensive view of the interface, making it easier to navigate through its features.

Polyphony and Sound Quality

When it comes to polyphony, the Polyend Tracker stands out with 64 voices, which means you can layer more sounds and samples together. The Elektron Digitakt offers 8 voices. While this may seem limited compared to the Tracker, the Digitakt is designed for focused drum and sample sequencing, which can be perfect for certain styles of music.

The Digitakt has a higher sample rate at 48kHz, offering slightly better sound quality than the Tracker’s 44.1kHz. This difference might not be noticeable to everyone, but purists might appreciate the higher fidelity.

Storage and Connectivity

The Elektron Digitakt features internal storage, which is convenient for quick access to your samples. It also includes MIDI In/Out/Thru, USB, and Audio Out connections, providing plenty of options for integrating into your setup.

The Polyend Tracker uses a MicroSD card for storage, allowing for easy expansion and swapping of samples. It offers MIDI In/Out, USB, and both Audio In/Out, giving it an edge in terms of audio routing flexibility.

Effects and Sequencing

Both samplers come with a sequencer, but they offer different experiences. The Digitakt shines with deep sequencing capabilities and performance features, making it a favorite for live performers. It includes reverb and delay effects, which are essential for creating space and depth in your tracks.

The Polyend Tracker offers multiple effects, catering to those who want a broader palette of sound-shaping tools. Its unique sequencing approach is based on the tracker tradition, which can be a refreshing change for those used to more conventional sequencers.

Software Integration

The Elektron Digitakt integrates with Elektron Transfer software, making it easy to manage your samples and transfer files. This can be a huge time-saver when organizing your sample library.

In contrast, the Polyend Tracker does not offer specific software integration. While this might seem like a downside, it also means the Tracker is more of a standalone device, encouraging you to focus on the hardware itself.

Pros and Cons

Elektron Digitakt

Pros:

• Compact and durable design
• High-quality 48kHz sample rate
• Deep sequencing capabilities
• Easy software integration with Elektron Transfer
• Affordable price at $700

Cons:

• Limited to 8 voices of polyphony
• No audio input
• No pads for finger drumming

Polyend Tracker

Pros:

• High polyphony with 64 voices
• Unique tracker-style sequencing
• Flexible audio routing with Audio In/Out
• Larger LCD display for better navigation
• Expandable storage with MicroSD card

Cons:

• Higher price at $1200
• No software integration
• Tracker interface may have a learning curve for some

Summary

In summary, the Elektron Digitakt and Polyend Tracker each bring their own strengths to the table. The Digitakt is perfect for those who value deep sequencing and performance features, while the Tracker offers a unique approach with its tracker-style interface and high polyphony.

Final Verdict

So, who are these samplers best for? If you’re looking for a compact, affordable, and performance-focused sampler, the Elektron Digitakt is a fantastic choice. However, if you want a device with high polyphony, flexible audio routing, and a unique sequencing experience, the Polyend Tracker might be the better fit.

Both samplers have their merits, and the best choice depends on your personal workflow and musical style. Take your time, consider what features matter most to you, and you’ll surely find the right tool to elevate your music production.