Elektron Digitakt II Officially Announced
After an intense day of rumors and speculation, Elektron has officially lifted the veil on the Digitakt II – a powerful refresh to their popular sampling drum machine. The Digitakt II marks Elektron’s first new hardware release in two years, and it comes packed with a host of exciting upgrades and enhancements.
Massive Memory Boost and Stereo Sampling
One of the most significant upgrades in the Digitakt II is the expanded memory. You can now load up to 30 minutes of stereo samples per project across over 1000 sample slots. This is a huge increase over the original Digitakt, opening up immense potential for capturing and manipulating unique sounds.
The Digitakt II also introduces stereo sampling across all 16 tracks. Each track can play back samples in stereo, mono, or transmit MIDI, providing flexibility for building rich, spacious beats and sequences.
Modular Sound Design
Elektron has equipped the Digitakt II with an incredibly flexible and modular sound design architecture. Five distinct “machines” allow you to slice, stretch, repitch, and manipulate your samples in creative ways. Each track also features swappable filters, envelopes, and three LFOs for intricate modulation possibilities.
Enhanced Sequencing and Performance Features
The Digitakt II boasts a significantly expanded version of Elektron’s acclaimed sequencer. You now have access to 128 steps per pattern, allowing for evolving and detailed sequences. Parameter locks, conditional trigs, a Euclidean generator and new trig modes open up a world of rhythmic experimentation.
A number of thoughtful features make the Digitakt II a joy to play and compose with. The new Perform Kit mode lets you tweak your sounds non-destructively. Song mode, keyboard mode with 10 octaves and over 30 scales, and quick kit access allow you to build and perform complete tracks with ease.
Connectivity and Pricing
The Digitakt II is designed to be the centerpiece of your studio or live rig. In addition to stereo audio I/O, the 16 tracks can transmit and receive MIDI, allowing you to sequence and control your other synths and modules[1]. The MIDI learn functionality makes setting this up quick and painless.
The Elektron Digitakt II can be preordered now and will be available in late May/June 2024 at a price of €999/$999/£899. While not inexpensive and certainly more costly than the previous model (approx. 25% more), the depth and flexibility on offer seem to justify the price for serious producers and performers.
Digitakt II – A New Chapter for Elektron
With the Digitakt II, Elektron looks to build on the legacy of its beloved predecessor, pushing the concept of the sampling drum machine to new heights. The expanded memory, stereo sampling, enhanced sequencing, and modular sound design features combine to create a groovebox that is both deep and intuitive.
For Elektron fans who have been waiting for new hardware, the Digitakt II looks to be worth the wait. Its wealth of possibilities and thoughtful design make it a compelling choice for both studio production and live performance.
We can’t wait to get our hands on the Digitakt II and dive deep into its potential. In the meantime, let us know what you think of Elektron’s latest offering. Will the Digitakt II earn a place in your studio or live rig? What features are you most excited about? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
