The Elektron Octatrack DPS1 was as of 2011 a revolutionary hardware performance sampler that represented Swedish manufacturer Elektron's unique approach to sampling technology. Designed as a dedicated hardware alternative to laptop-based live performance setups, the Octatrack delivers what many electronic musicians have long desired: "Ableton Live in a Box" - a comprehensive sampling, sequencing, and performance tool with absolutely no capacity to receive email.
This unassuming black steel unit houses a sophisticated 8-track audio and MIDI pattern sequencer that excels at fluid loop manipulation, real-time sampling, and complete song structure performance. The Octatrack's strength lies in its ability to handle everything from short samples to gigabyte-long complete songs, all while providing extensive real-time manipulation capabilities through its hands-on interface.
At its core, the Octatrack utilizes four distinct "machine" types across its eight internal audio tracks: Static machines for streaming large samples directly from Compact Flash storage, Flex machines for RAM-based sample manipulation, Thru machines for processing external audio, and Neighbor machines for extending effect chains. This architecture allows for unprecedented flexibility in combining backing tracks, live loops, and processed external audio sources.
The unit's pattern-based sequencer supports advanced features like parameter locks (p-locks), which allow any parameter to be stored and recalled on any sequencer step, enabling complex automated manipulation of samples throughout a pattern. Combined with three LFOs per track, sample slicing capabilities, and comprehensive effects processing, the Octatrack transforms static audio into dynamic, evolving performances.
The Octatrack's "Dynamic Performance Sampler" designation becomes clear when utilizing features like slice randomization, real-time sample start point manipulation, and the optical crossfader's scene morphing capabilities. These tools enable instant remixing and non-destructive loop manipulation that can generate entirely new musical arrangements on the fly.
For live performance, the Octatrack includes advanced cueing capabilities, allowing tracks to be pre-auditioned through dedicated cue outputs before being introduced to the main mix. The arrangement mode provides song structure management with up to 256 rows per arrangement, handling pattern sequencing, tempo changes, and mute states automatically.
Technical Specifications
Audio Specifications
- Audio Inputs: 4 x 1/4" TRS jacks (2 pairs)
- Audio Outputs:
- Main outputs: 2 x 1/4" TRS jacks (stereo pair)
- Cue outputs: 2 x 1/4" TRS jacks (stereo pair)
- Headphone output: 1 x 1/4" TRS jack
- Sample Format Support: 16-bit and 24-bit WAV/AIFF files
- Preferred Sample Rate: 44.1 kHz (48 kHz samples play at incorrect speed)
- Audio Tracks: 8 internal stereo/mono audio tracks
- Sample Memory:
- Flex machines: 64 MB RAM pool (shared)
- Recording memory: 2.7 MB per track (separate from Flex RAM)
- Static samples: Limited only by Compact Flash card capacity (gigabytes possible)
Sampling & Playback
- Machine Types: 4 (Static, Flex, Thru, Neighbor)
- Sample Slots: 128 slots each for Static and Flex machines
- Maximum Recording Time: ~16 seconds per track (manual recording)
- Slicing: Up to 64 slices per sample (equal divisions or manual slice points)
- Time Stretching: Normal and beat-optimized modes
- Pitch Range: ±1 octave smooth tuning
- Sample Playback: Monophonic, 2-octave chromatic range via MIDI
Sequencing Specifications
- Pattern Storage: 256 patterns total (16 banks of 16 patterns each)
- Pattern Length: 1-64 steps (with Scale Setup)
- Track Lengths: Individual track lengths supported with master sync
- Clock Divisions: Down to 1/8 standard speed
- Micro-timing: ±1/384 step resolution (or more with varied clock resolution)
- Swing: Available per track
- Parts: 4 parts per bank (complete machine/sample/routing configurations)
- Scenes: 16 scenes per part for crossfader morphing
Effects & Modulation
- Effects per Track: 2 effect blocks per audio track
- Effect Types:
- Block 1: Filter, EQ, Chorus, Phaser, Flanger, Compressor, Lo-fi
- Block 2: All Block 1 effects plus Reverb and Delay
- LFOs per Track: 3 freely assignable with custom waveform designer
- Envelope: Amp envelope with analog mode per track
- Parameter Locks: Any parameter can be locked to any sequencer step
MIDI Specifications
- MIDI Tracks: 8 dedicated MIDI sequencer tracks
- MIDI I/O: In, Out, Thru (DIN connectors)
- MIDI Features:
- 4-note chord capability per step
- Built-in arpeggiator
- LFO-generated continuous controllers
- Clock master/slave operation
- Remote control of internal tracks
- MIDI Limitations: Pattern selection not available via MIDI
Storage & Connectivity
- Storage Medium: Compact Flash (CF) card
- Included Storage: 4 GB CF card (133x speed, ~50% filled with Loopmasters content)
- USB: USB 2.0 port for computer connection and file transfer
- File Organization: Set/Project structure with shared audio pools
- Arrangement Storage: 8 named arrangements per project, up to 256 rows each
Display&Interface
- Display: 128 x 64 pixel backlit LCD screen
- Control Interface: Rotary encoders, tri-color LEDs, trigger keys, and optical crossfader
Power Supply
- 6V external power adapter
Workflow Features
- Sample Management: Audition and assign samples from organized folders
- Recording Sources: Any/all audio inputs, cue outputs, or master outputs
- Cue System: Individual track cueing to headphones/cue outputs
- Master Track: Track 8 can function as master with global effects
- Live Sampling: Manual or sequencer-triggered recording with one-shot capability
- External Processing: Route tracks through external effects and return via inputs
- Audio Editor: Built-in waveform editor with zoom, trim, slice, and attribute functions
- Record Modes: Grid Record and Live Record
- Mixer Functions: Individual track muting, cueing, and level control
Physical Specifications
- Dimensions: 34 x 18 x 6 cm
- Weight: Under 2.5 kg
- Construction: Black steel chassis with brushed aluminum control panel
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