Elektron Model:Samples — VS — Polyend Tracker
Elektron Model:Samples
The Elektron Model:Samples is a small and powerful music machine that lets you make your own beats and songs using sounds called samples. It has 6 sound tracks, cool built-in effects like echo and reverb, and big pads you can tap to play music. You can use the sounds that come with it or add your own. It's light, easy to carry, and fun to use—perfect for anyone who wants to start making music, anywhere!
Polyend Tracker
Polyend Tracker is a powerful, easy-to-use music workstation that helps you create and perform your own songs. It's compact, lightweight, and built for making music anywhere—at home, in the studio, or on the go. You can load in your own samples, record new ones with a mic or even from the built-in FM radio, then slice, shape, and play them your way. It has a simple layout, a strong sequencer, and tools like filters and effects to build full tracks. You can also connect it to other gear using MIDI. It's made for creative people who want a fresh, hands-on way to make music.
| Spec | Elektron Model:Samples | Polyend Tracker |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Elektron | Polyend |
| Year Released | 2019 | 2020 |
| Polyphony | 6 | 64 |
| Sample Rate | 48kHz | 44.1kHz |
| Storage | Internal storage | MicroSD card |
| Pads | No pads, uses buttons | No pads, buttons for input |
| Sequencer | Yes | Yes |
| Effects | distortion, filter effects, and a global delay and reverb send | Multiple effects |
| I/O | 1/4 inch headphone output, 2x balanced 1/4 inch main outputs, a 3.5mm TRS jack for MIDI in/out, and a USB mini 2.0 port | MIDI In/Out, USB, Audio In/Out |
| Screen | 128 x 64 pixel LCD screen | LCD display |
| Software Integration | Elektron Transfer | No |
| Build | Desktop | Tracker-style sampler |
| Price | $349 | $599 |
| More about | Details | Details |
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Buy Now On AmazonPolyend Tracker vs Elektron Model:Samples: Battle of the Samplers
Summary: Choosing between the Polyend Tracker and the Elektron Model:Samples can be tricky for music lovers. Both have unique features and strengths. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, understanding what each has to offer can make your decision easier.
Introduction
If you’re diving into the world of music production, samplers are your best friends. They let you record, tweak, and create music with a touch of creativity. Today, we’re comparing two popular samplers: the Polyend Tracker and the Elektron Model:Samples. Both are incredible tools that can help bring your musical ideas to life. But which one is right for you? Let’s find out!
Feature Comparisons
Design and Build
The Polyend Tracker is a tracker-style sampler. It’s compact, lightweight, and perfect for making music anywhere—whether you’re at home, in the studio, or on the go. Its design is straightforward, using buttons for input instead of pads. With a clear LCD display, it offers a hands-on approach to music creation, making it easy to navigate through different options.
On the other hand, the Elektron Model:Samples is a desktop sampler. It’s small and powerful, designed for creating beats and songs using samples. It also uses buttons instead of pads but offers a slightly different experience with its 128 x 64 pixel LCD screen. The Model:Samples is simple to carry around and is considered very user-friendly.
Polyphony and Sound Quality
When it comes to polyphony, the Polyend Tracker shines with 64 voices, allowing for a more complex layering of sounds. Its 44.1kHz sample rate ensures high-quality audio.
The Elektron Model:Samples, while having a lower polyphony of 6 voices, offers a higher sample rate of 48kHz. This allows for slightly better sound quality, although the difference may not be noticeable to all users.
Storage and Connectivity
The Polyend Tracker uses a MicroSD card for storage, offering flexibility to expand your memory as needed. It is equipped with MIDI In/Out, USB, and Audio In/Out ports, making it easy to connect to other gear.
Elektron Model:Samples comes with internal storage, which might limit space for large libraries but keeps everything contained within the device. It features a 1/4 inch headphone output, balanced 1/4 inch main outputs, a 3.5mm TRS jack for MIDI in/out, and a USB mini 2.0 port.
Effects and Sequencing
Polyend Tracker provides multiple effects, filters, and a robust sequencer. This combination allows users to build full tracks right within the device.
Elektron Model:Samples boasts distortion, filter effects, and a global delay and reverb send. Its sequencer is intuitive and easy to use, making it a great choice for beginners.
Software Integration
The Polyend Tracker does not offer software integration, which might be a downside for those who prefer to work within digital audio workstations (DAWs).
Elektron Model:Samples, however, integrates with Elektron Transfer, allowing for smoother transitions between hardware and software environments.
Pros and Cons
Polyend Tracker
Pros:
- High polyphony (64 voices)
- Expandable storage with MicroSD
- Multiple effects and strong sequencer
- Compact and portable design
Cons:
- Higher price ($599)
- No software integration
Elektron Model:Samples
Pros:
- Affordable price ($349)
- High sample rate (48kHz)
- User-friendly and portable
- Software integration with Elektron Transfer
Cons:
- Lower polyphony (6 voices)
- Limited internal storage
Final Verdict
Choosing between the Polyend Tracker and the Elektron Model:Samples comes down to your specific needs and budget.
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If you’re looking for something with high polyphony, expandable storage, and a variety of effects, the Polyend Tracker is the better choice. It’s ideal for those who want a powerful, hands-on music creation tool.
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If you’re on a budget, prefer a higher sample rate, and like the idea of software integration, the Elektron Model:Samples is perfect. It’s especially great for beginners who want to start making music quickly and easily.
Remember, both samplers have their strengths and will serve you well in your music-making journey. Happy creating!