I’m gonna bookmark my post so I can check back on it to see how far off the mark I may be.
Predictions for elektron in 2020 possibly namm but more likely superbooth:
I can’t see elektron making a drum synth in the same line as their digi series. Too many crossover features, as well as the fact the rytm exists.
I think the next evolution in the model range will be a drum synth, utilising the 6 rubber pads and 16 smaller sequencer buttons with one knob per function lends itself very naturally to drum synthesis and expression.
After which I think the next model in the model range will be model: effects. Given the huge bump in effects pedal usage and I things like the zoia I think this is well worth exploring.
If I was elektron. The next few years development would be spent solely on the digi mk2 range. The digitakt and digi tone have been a phenomenal success for the company, the cash injection over the last two years alone must give research and development the confidence it needs to not only develop the new boxes but get them out there probably sooner than we may realise. With the success the company has seen we should also appreciate it brings opportunity like private investment which naturally people want ensure further success with.
For the digitakt mk2 I suspect they will ditch the full size midi din ports to make the unit slimmer but still keeping the industrial design the same. Stereo sampling of course. Potentially a shift in (but not radical) design for the screen and UI to to make encoder usage more intuitive/natural). think like the 1010 music blackbox.
Never owned a digitone but I suspect the same change in footprint as above, maybe more polyphony and more ins/outs for effects sends etc.
I love the idea of a digi: mix. I genuinely hope they do it. There’s a whole swathe of features that would make this a home run for company. However: I would not be surprised if elektron released a mixer in the model: format. It could still be anazing.
Other predictions: we won’t see another rytm or analog 4 made again. I think they will end with the mk2
As for the octatrack. I think if a mk3 ever gets made it will be elektrons only premium (£1k +) flagship device. However, given the success of the digis and what I see as wavering interest for the octatrack mk2 I think elektron will wait this one out a while. Not getting easier with akai breathing down their necks either. Again I won’t be surprised if they can it or put development of the octatrack on hold.
