The Elektron Model:Cycles is a compact and accessible FM groovebox that represents Elektron's second entry in their 'Model' range. Unlike traditional Elektron devices, the Model:Cycles offers a more affordable and portable entry point into the Elektron ecosystem while maintaining the company's signature sequencing capabilities.

This sample-free groovebox is built around a focused deployment of Elektron's Digitone FM synthesis technology, featuring six dedicated sound machines optimized for rhythmic and melodic composition. The device combines the familiar Elektron sequencer architecture with simplified, hands-on controls that make FM synthesis approachable for both beginners and experienced producers.

The Model:Cycles stands out with its lightweight plastic construction, making it highly portable while maintaining reasonable build quality. The interface features both traditional step sequencing buttons and velocity-sensitive performance pads, allowing for dynamic real-time interaction and live performance capabilities.

At its core, the device offers six distinct FM-based sound engines: Kick, Snare, Metal, Percussion, Tone, and Chord. Each machine utilizes a 4-voice FM synthesis engine with four intuitive macro controls (Color, Shape, Sweep, and Contour) that provide immediate access to the most musical parameters without requiring deep FM programming knowledge.

The sequencer inherits the full power of Elektron's renowned sequencing capabilities, including parameter locking, conditional triggers, retriggers, and non-destructive quantization. This allows for complex, evolving patterns that can change dramatically over time while maintaining the groove and musicality that Elektron devices are known for.

Technical Specifications

Audio Engine

• Synthesis Type: FM synthesis based on Digitone engine
• Polyphony: 4-voice FM synthesis engine
• Sound Machines: 6 types (Kick, Snare, Metal, Percussion, Tone, Chord)
• Machine Assignment: Free-form assignment across tracks
• Parameter Automation: Up to 80 different parameters per pattern

Sound Machines Detail

• Kick: Electronic kick sounds with industrial noise capabilities, 808 bass tones (no glide)
• Snare: Realistic to synthetic snares, metallic clonks, tom-like tones
• Metal: Hi-hats and cymbals, detuned melodic synth tones
• Percussion: Pitched percussive sounds from low tubs to high clanks
• Tone: Traditional FM patch with two operators, ratio and modulation control
• Chord: Chord algorithm with extensive chord selection and voice variations

Controls Per Track

• Macro Controls: 4 per machine (Color, Shape, Sweep, Contour)
• Standard Controls: Pitch, Decay, Volume + Dist, LFO Speed
• Effect Sends: Delay and Reverb
• Modulation: Single LFO per track, Velocity modulation
• Envelope Control: Trigger/decay or sustain modes

Sequencer

• Tracks: 6 tracks
• Pattern Length: Up to 64 steps across 4 pages
• Step Resolution: Adjustable from standard 16th notes
• Track Length: Individual track lengths supported
• Recording Modes: Step Record, Live Record, unquantized recording
• Parameter Locking: Full parameter automation per step
• Conditional Triggers: Fill variations, randomness, percentage-based
• Retrigger: Per-track settings, lockable to steps with speed/length/fade control
• Timing: Full timing nudge control, non-destructive quantization

Pattern Management

• Patterns per Project: 96 patterns
• Pattern Storage: Sequence + all sound/effect/modulation settings
• Preset Management: Sound preset library organized by category
• Kit Loading: Folder-based loading of 6 presets simultaneously

Effects

• Built-in Effects: 2 types (Delay and Reverb)
• Punch Effect: Boost and distortion, applicable per step
• Distortion: Soft saturation via Volume + Dist control

Interface

• Display: Small display with single push encoder control
• Step Buttons: 16 backlit trig buttons (small, slightly wobbly)
• Performance Pads: 6 velocity-sensitive drum pads (require firm pressure)
• Encoders: Rubberized, stubby design for stability
• Dedicated Controls: Nearly all sound parameters have dedicated encoders

Connectivity

• Audio Outputs:
  • Main: 1/4" stereo output
  • Headphones: 1/4" headphone output
• MIDI:
  • MIDI In: 3.5mm socket
  • MIDI Out/Thru: 3.5mm socket
• USB: Micro USB (MIDI communication + audio interface)
• Power: 5V DC input, compatible with Power Handle (battery operation)

Power

• Power Supply: Included small power supply
• Voltage: 5V DC
• Battery Option: Power Handle accessory (AA batteries)
• Alternative Power: USB-to-DC cable compatibility (unofficial)
• USB Power: Not supported via USB port

Computer Integration

• Audio Interface: Stereo audio interface via USB
• Overbridge: Not supported
• Audio Streaming: Available with optional effects bypass
• MIDI: Full MIDI communication via USB

Performance Features

• Transport Modes: Playback, Step Record, Live Record
• Real-time Controls: Track muting, temporary saves/reloads
• Pattern Variations: Traditional pattern launching workflow
• Dynamic Performance: Real-time parameter manipulation
• All Track Modifier: Apply changes to all tracks simultaneously

Memory & Storage

• Projects: Multiple project storage
• Patterns: 96 patterns per project
• Presets: Comprehensive sound preset library
• Temp Save/Reload: Non-destructive experimentation workflow

Additional Features

• Machine Parameter Locking: Change machine type per step
• Melodic Capabilities: Monophonic melodic playback
• External Keyboard: Support for external keyboard input
• Copy/Paste: Pattern and step copying with undo function
• Quantization: Non-destructive quantize feature

Physical Specifications

• Dimensions: 270 x 180 x 39 mm
• Weight: 0.8 kg
• Construction: Lightweight plastic housing