Elektron’s Digitakt drum machine and sampler (reviewed here in SOS September 2017) delivered many of the features found in their flagship Octatrack in a more compact and affordable package. The company have now announced the launch of the Digitakt II, which offers a more modular approach to sound creation as well as packing in more sampler tracks, an enhanced sequencer and more.
The original Digitakt was a 16-track device, but with the first eight tracks offering sample playback, and the remaining eight dedicated to MIDI. With the Digitakt II, all 16 tracks can be configured for sample playback (mono or stereo) or MIDI duties, potentially doubling the amount of sample playback. Each project supports up to 30 minutes of stereo samples, and in addition to its ability to sample external sources via its line inputs, Digitakt II comes loaded with a generous selection of factory content.
The instrument features five different sampling Machines: Grid, Werp, Repitch, Stretch and One Shot, which each offer a unique set of sound-shaping tools. Each track can be loaded with a selection of different filters (Multi-Mode, Lowpass 4, Equalizer, Comb or Legacy LP/HP) and also benefits from filter and amplifier ADSR envelopes. There’s no shortage of modulation opportunities thanks to three LFOs per track, while reverb and delay processors are joined by an array of other effects that include overdrive, chorus and bit-rate reduction.
Digitakt II’s sequencer has been treated to a significant upgrade, and now boasts 128 steps — double the amount of the original Digitakt — with a wealth of new performance-focused capabilities. Parameter lock functions are joined by a Euclidean sequence generator, and a variety of different Trig modes offer a fun way to create new varying patterns.
As for connectivity, the instrument’s stereo line-level input and output are joined by MIDI in, out and thru connections and a headphone output, and the unit is still capable of functioning as a USB audio interface.
Pricing & Availability
The Digitakt II is available to order now, priced at $999£899 including VAT / €1049.
