The way I use the OT is by using the computer; I’ll use a DAW to set up a basic skeleton for a track. So, I’ll create a small kit of custom loops and one shots with the OT in mind. That lets me use all sorts of plugins for processing, compression, etc. to create a solid foundation for a track.
I do this because first, the OT effects ( Like reverb ) are hot garbage, and second because I don’t really care to edit samples on an ancient LCD screen. Third, because the OT effect slots are limited so it’s best to use a DAW for boring utilitarian things like EQ and Saturation.
Then I’ll build some sequenced and live patterns around that. If you just had the same loops unchanged repeating over and over it’d be pretty boring, so I’ll use the elektron sequencer to work in some variations.
Cause I only have two hands, I sort of plan out what I’ll be doing each pattern. So maybe I’ll be playing on the keys with the joystick, or maybe I’ll be using the performance macros and crossfader.
For studio use on a purely DAW track, I just use Overbridge and sample in a bunch of playing or knob tweaks.
For routing the AK as a send effect using OT, it’s not something I usually do. Just because the OT has effects built-in, and it doesn’t support MIDI assignment to the crossfader. Prefer to “compartmentalize” each input device to reduce the complexity of programming patterns.
And because you can play with physical keys on the AK, it makes it really easy to play in patterns to the internal seq. Or something I like to do since I suck at playing, which is sequence SOME base notes into the core pattern so I can play overtop of it and have some kind of anchor point to keep it in time.
If I were really brave, I could try using the live recording as a MIDI loop to build up patterns a-la guitar looper but not something I’ve dared to do yet in a live club setting.
