Hello everyone,
I like to create ambient music without a DAW, and I enjoy using Korg WaveState and MPC One.
So I’m planning to buy a second hands DN OG. I understand that DN2 is better in terms of functions and specifications. Are there any important points I should be aware of if I choose OG?
Thank you.
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be aware that the OG DN is a phenomenal instrument and you can pick one up for next to nothing. there has never been a better time to score an OG.
You will not be disappointed.
Also, WElcome to the community!
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Hello! 
We had a whole thread for shared love with the OG DN.
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The OG is more of an individual instrument. The DN2 is like a suite of instruments. Managing the 4 machines and 16 tracks can become a bit unwieldy pretty quickly.
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Thank you for encouraging me to get OG. 
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Welcome to the forum!
For a long time, I’ve said that the Analog Four mk1 is the best value for money in a synth. But with the current prices for Digitone I in the sub-$400 range, I think it has a good claim to that title. I have just received Digitone II, but it is an indulgent luxury, especially since I am not giving up my Digitone Keys.
You are already aware of the limitations of Digitone 1, I’m sure: it is unlikely to receive any further firmware upgrades, and it has four tracks with eight-voice polyphony. But the Elektron sequencer, with the ability to parameter-lock a completely different sound on each step, and move adjacent steps with microtiming to trigger almost simultaneously, goes a long way in expanding its capabilities. Given the devices you already own that you can pair DN1 with, you probably won’t hit its limits very often, and if you do, there are workarounds. The central FM engine in DN1 is unchanged in DN2, and DN1 has Overbridge working right now, while we wait for it with DN2.
I also think that used prices will rebound somewhat. So if you decide to move on or upgrade later, you will probably be able to get back most or all of your money.
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Thank you for your comment. As you say, it’s unfortunate and sad that there will no longer be firmware updates… 
I don’t view it as sad, just a fact. My A4mk1 has not gotten a significant update since I bought it, even though it runs the same firmware as mk2. It is nonetheless amazing. I have plenty of musical devices whose digital components are unlikely to be updated. They are and will continue to be useful. It’s only the historical context of Elektron’s very generous update policy (not common) that allows us to feel that something has been lost. DN1 had a lot of updates and is in a very good state. There’s a lot to celebrate about it just as it is.
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there is no official statement about future firmwareupdates
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These things (the reliability of the existing firmware, device capability) is why I began switching to Elektron a year ago, from brands like NI(Im a maschine/mk3 customer) who do not build (long term) reliable gear.
Most of their gear is tied to software plugins, desktop OS version compatibility, nasty licensing, etc etc, and so 10 years after buying one of their devices, it mostly doesnt work anymore or requires major workarounds and 3rd party scripting, paid software updates, etc. Elektron doesnt have any of that baggage, they make REAL instruments that are designed for real musicians, and I expect my ST and my DN2 will remain viable for many years, even if I stop using the windows OS all together and get rid of PCs.
Im happy about my decision, and if I was more educated about it all 15+ years ago, I would have already bought Elektron gear.
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It’s a very complete machine that received many updates over its lifespan… if you want a device that will likely get updates you can buy the new version.
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A $390 OG DN last year would have sold within 2 minutes. Because it is a screaming good deal for a really super synth.
Now screaming good deals for this really super synth have become common. Great situation for buyers!
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Digitone, both new and old, is a desert island type of instrument. And the fact that you can find one for under 400 makes me happy.
I enjoy using my OG Digitone for calm evolving pieces the most. Simple repetative progressions that put you into trance. Highly detailed and animated sounds, emerging in the distance.
4 tracks is generally enough to lay that out. 8 voices limit is compensated by an absolutely lovely reverb.
Its true that DN2 is better in every way, but after years of using the OG, i feel like ive only scratched the surface.
Also yellow screen is cozy, and colorful buttons are cute 
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2x Digitone MK1 give 4 individual outs, hence its better to integrate in fx pedals if you run a live rig. 16 tracks of MK2 more or less needs overbridge to do processing in the box. The bass you can produce with it can let the analog rytm look jealous.
I think 2x DN1 can be the better deal overall if that connectivity is important to you.
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