Novation Circuit Tracks controller review
- 12/06/2024
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Novation Circuit Tracks is an evolution of Circuit OG, released in 2015. It’s a stand-alone groovebox offering a host of features for music production. Thanks to its hardware and software enhancements, it promises an enriched experience for synthesizer enthusiasts and electronic music producers. Let’s explore its key features and see how it compares to other similar devices on the market.
What’s new in Circuit Tracks
Novation Circuit Tracks offers several hardware improvements over Circuit OG:
- microSD slot: Increases storage capacity for more sound packs and samples.
- Additional audio inputs: Make it easy to integrate other sound sources into your creations.
- Enhanced MIDI connectivity: offers more possibilities for controlling external instruments.
Software evolution
On the software side, Circuit Tracks offers advanced functionalities:
- Control external instruments via MIDI: You can manage several external instruments simultaneously.
- Additional tracks: For more complex mixing and increased arrangement possibilities.
- Access to MIDI templates: for easy automation and customization of your instrument parameters.
Using Circuit Tracks
Novation Circuit Tracks shines for its versatility and ease of use. Here are some of the key features:
Sequence management
- Pattern editing: Create and edit note sequences for each track.
- Sample Flip mode: Allows different samples to be played on each step.
- Automation recording: Capture parameter changes in real time for dynamic performance.
Integrated effects
Circuit Tracks offers four main effects:
- Pitch: Modify the pitch of notes to vary your sound palette.
- Decay time: Adjust note length for unique sound textures.
- Distortion: Add character and warmth to your sounds.
- Additional equalization: Refine and sculpt your mix with precision.
Song” mode
The “song” mode lets you build complete songs by linking motifs and scenes. This makes it easy to create long, complex compositions without having to leave the camera.
A powerful tool for musicians
Synchronization and backup
Circuit Tracks lets you set the tempo, synchronize the MIDI clock, and save your projects with various parameters. USB connectivity lets you update firmware, manage patches and samples, and create custom MIDI templates via the “Components” application.
Digital synthesizer
The Circuit Tracks digital synthesis engine, inspired by Novation’s MiniNova, offers two instances with 6-voice polyphony. This opens up infinite possibilities for sound design and sound exploration.
Compressor and master effects
Circuit Tracks also feature a master compressor/limiter, master filter, delay, reverb and sidechain compression effect. These features let you fine-tune your mixes directly from the device.
Comparison with other groove machines
In the groovebox market, Novation Circuit Tracks stands out for its user-friendliness and innovative approach. Compared with other devices such as the Elektron Model:Samples or the Korg Electribe, Circuit Tracks offers a more intuitive interface and a smoother workflow.
Eric, le capitaine du navire TechnoMag, est développeur web, consultant SEO, rédacteur de metier, et surtout fanatique de musique ! Depuis l’enfance, il est attiré par les basses et les kicks, passant des heures à écouter et jouer sur machines pour le plaisir, avec son frère et ses amis, depuis plus de dix ans. Globe-trotteur, il a exploré des free parties sauvages et illégales jusqu’aux plus grands festivals internationaux. Dans son passé, il a aussi été VJ et impliqué dans l’organisation de soirées pas toujours vraiment autorisées. Aujourd’hui, il aime capturer l’énergie des événements pour la retranscrire aux autres, que ce soit derrière l’appareil photo, la caméra, ou en rédigeant un article. Avec quelques missions bénévoles à son actif et une association toute neuve, il rêve d’un lieu autonome où chacun pourrait balancer son set sans craindre de perdre son matos.
