Octatrack/Elektron devices: How do I keep track of my master track when playing?

Elektron Gear Octatrack
#1

Hi everyone,

I’ve had a few Elektron boxes in the past and now I’ve transitioned to an Octatrack.

I have had a question since day 1: let’s say that I have my track 1 set to 32 steps and my master track set to 64 steps.

While I am on track 1; 2 of the Page led lights up telling me my track is 32 steps. One of the 2 led is brighter telling me that I’m on page 1 or 2, depending on what page I’m on. While playing the brighter led goes from 1 to 2 to indicate the page I’m on.

Is there anywhere showing such information for the master track?

Is there anywhere where I can see how long is my master track and what page I’m on while I’m playing and while I’m on a different track?

I often get lost while trying to transition between scenes or muting/unmuting tracks because I think my master will end just to find that I’m too early or too late.

Hope this makes sense

#2

If the master track is set up to 64 steps (64/64), you should be able to see the typical 4-page setup. On the other hand, if by the master track being “set up to 64 steps” you mean here

image

but set as MASTER: 0064, then go to track 8, open the page setup, and set the scale to 64/64. This will give you the typical 4-page layout with the 4 lights and all that good stuff.

I assume this is what you mean.

#3

Apologies if I wasn’t clear in my question, let me rephrase it.
While the octa is playing and I’m on track 1, is there anywhere in the UI where I can see the progress of the master track?
I guess that going to track 8 would be the best option to keep track of your master track.

#4

Afaik that’s the way.

#5

You could put musical cues in that mark, or foreshadow, the timing you want. Crashes on 1, are clear but obvious; a key change in the final 16 might shape your track; an extra kick in bar 3 is a nice subtle one that tickles the groove and doesn’t announce itself too loudly; risers will guide you and your audience to prepare for a change. Etc.

1 Like
#6

I see. Then, no, there isn’t.

#7

Well we could always say we are musicians and therefore able to keep track of that mess :crazy_face: