I have finally decided as a beginner to jump onto the Elektron-wagon and besides my Digitone I’ll buy a Digitakt as well. Even if I’m not a strictly sample-based guy this seems like a killer combo.
I am using Volcas since a while now and always wanted to buy a Keystep Pro to use with them.
Now I’m not sure if it makes sense anymore. The Elektron sequencers seem so strong I might be able to get alomg with a Keystep or a Keystep 37 given the advantage of size and portability.
Is there anyone in the same shoes? What would you suggest?
Btw. I’ll keep my Volcas, I like them and will probably try to use them with an Elektron setup.
DT and DN are both really powerful as midi sequencers. I use a DT to sequence a few midi driven hardware synths with a Keystep 37 as a controller. Keystep Pro’s superpower as I see it is its many CV outs for controlling modular and semi modular gear.
One downside to be aware of with this combo, DT and DN only pass note and velocity, and not mod wheel and aftertouch data through to your synths via midi out, and the DN can do beautifully expressive stuff with these keyboard features but it doesn’t record them to the sequencer. (You can sequence an extra LFO or values per channel by passing MW or similar from DT. That’s just to say, the aftertouch and Mod Wheel on the Keystep may get limited use, but it’s still a popular keyboard and I love it with DT… The arp is terrific for inputting to Digitakt sequencer.
The Keystep Pro is really great, and I really like how it works with my Digitone and Analog Four. It’s a great way to give yourself a lot of pattern/sequence variations without changing pattern on the Elektron units… you can use them largely as sound modules, and record the midi into the Elektrons when you’re ready.
However, if you’re new to the Digitone, I’d take your time and get to know that properly first. There’s nothing worse than having to learn multiple pieces of gear at the same time… it takes way longer to properly learn 2 devices at the same time than it does to properly learn 1 device at a time.
I used a KS with my DT and DN for ages, and would strongly recommend it (the only reason I don’t anymore is because I recently got an Analog Keys, and one keybed is enough for me). You can of course use the buttons as keys, but they aren’t velocity sensitive, and for me at least, having a set of keys feels much more organic and intuitive. But for sure the KSP I think would be overkill for you…its value lies in its ability to work as a brain, and between the DT and DN, you will have 12 tracks of outstanding MIDI sequencing. You can map CCs to your Volcas and easily automate them with parameter locks and LFOs.
In addition to being an insanely powerful four-track analog synth, the Analog Keys works great as a MIDI controller. It also has a really nice key bed.
The screen and UI takes a little getting used to if you only have played the Digis or MKII’s, but the AK really is pretty amazing. They seem criminally undervalued. Plus you can sequence modular from it directly.
