Choosing Your Sound Machine: Elektron Octatrack MKII vs Elektron Model:Samples

Whether you’re a budding music producer or a seasoned performer, picking the right gear is essential for bringing your musical ideas to life. This blog post will explore two popular samplers from Elektron: the Elektron Octatrack MKII and the Elektron Model:Samples. We’ll dive into their features, pros, and cons to help you decide which one is the best fit for your musical journey.

Summary

The Octatrack MKII and Model:Samples are both amazing tools for music-making, each with its own strengths. The Octatrack is a powerhouse for those who love deep sound manipulation, while the Model:Samples is perfect for beginners who want to jump right into creating beats.

Introduction

In the world of music production, the right sampler can make all the difference. Samplers allow musicians to capture, manipulate, and play back sounds, creating unique compositions and performances. Today, we’ll take a closer look at two popular options from Elektron: the Octatrack MKII and the Model:Samples. These machines are both powerful in their own way and provide unique features that cater to different types of music creators. Let’s explore what each has to offer!

Feature Comparisons

Build and Design

Both the Octatrack MKII and the Model:Samples are designed as desktop units. The Octatrack MKII, released in 2017, has a robust build with a sleek OLED display, making it highly durable and suitable for live performances. It lacks traditional pads but includes encoders and buttons for a tactile experience. On the other hand, the Model:Samples, launched in 2019, is lighter and more portable. It features a 128 x 64 pixel LCD screen and uses buttons instead of pads, making it easy to carry around for on-the-go music making.

Sound and Polyphony

The Octatrack MKII offers 8 tracks of polyphony, meaning you can layer multiple sounds without losing quality. It has a sample rate of 48kHz, which ensures high-quality audio. Meanwhile, the Model:Samples provides 6 tracks of polyphony but maintains the same 48kHz sample rate, ensuring your beats sound crisp.

Storage and Integration

When it comes to storing your sounds, the Octatrack MKII uses an SD card, offering flexibility and expandability. You can store countless samples and projects without worrying about space. The Model:Samples, however, comes with internal storage, which is convenient but less expandable than the SD card option. Both devices integrate with Elektron Transfer software, making it easy to manage and transfer your sounds.

Effects and Sequencing

Effects are where these devices shine. The Octatrack MKII is equipped with filters, delay, and reverb, allowing for deep sound manipulation. Its advanced sequencer is perfect for complex compositions and live performances. The Model:Samples, while simpler, still offers a range of effects, including distortion and filter effects, along with a global delay and reverb send. Its sequencer is user-friendly, great for quickly creating beats and loops.

Inputs and Outputs

The Octatrack MKII provides extensive connectivity with MIDI In/Out/Thru, USB, and multiple audio inputs and outputs, making it a versatile choice for those with a complex setup. In contrast, the Model:Samples features more straightforward connectivity options, including a 1/4 inch headphone output, balanced main outputs, a 3.5mm TRS jack for MIDI, and a USB mini 2.0 port. This setup is perfect for those who prefer a simpler connection.

Pros and Cons

Elektron Octatrack MKII

Pros:

• Advanced Sound Manipulation: With its powerful effects and 8-track polyphony, the Octatrack MKII is perfect for those who want to dive deep into sound design.
• Expandable Storage: The use of an SD card allows for massive storage capacity.
• Robust Connectivity: Multiple inputs and outputs make it suitable for complex setups.

Cons:

• Price: At $1799, it’s a significant investment.
• Complexity: The advanced features may be overwhelming for beginners.

Elektron Model:Samples

Pros:

• Affordability: Priced at $349, it’s accessible for beginners.
• Portability: Its lightweight design makes it easy to carry and use anywhere.
• User-Friendly: Simple interface and controls are perfect for those new to music production.

Cons:

• Limited Polyphony: With only 6 tracks, it might be limiting for more complex compositions.
• Internal Storage Only: Lack of expandable storage might be a drawback for some users.

Final Verdict

The Elektron Octatrack MKII is ideal for experienced producers who crave deep sound manipulation and require a device that can handle complex live performances. It’s perfect for those who have a more extensive setup and need robust connectivity options.

The Elektron Model:Samples is best suited for beginners or those looking for a portable and easy-to-use sampler. It’s a great choice for anyone who wants to start making music quickly without a steep learning curve.

Ultimately, both of these Elektron samplers offer unique features that can cater to different musical needs. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand your sound design capabilities, there’s something for everyone in these powerful machines. Happy music making!