The Model:cycles - Elektron Cycles User Manual

2. THE MODEL:CYCLES

2. THE MODEL:CYCLES
There is that one word that always comes back to us. It's running bright red through all our instruments
and is undeniably fundamental to the Elektron ethos. It's a divisive word, yet one that concisely captures a
firm belief of ours: that little boxes with knobs can be formidable instruments if you pay enough attention to
function and detail. This word remains a cornerstone of our work and is very dear to our hearts.
Model:Cycles is a groovebox. In the full sense of the word.
The possibility to make a myriad of sounds is something that signifies a groovebox - so how do we accom-
plish that without using samples? We use the right method of synthesis, and the right synthesis, in this case,
is FM. Not only because we have deep affection for it, but also because of how malleable it is.
Approaching synthesis in the Model format, with its one-knob-per-function control, was a daunting task. We
wanted focused controls, yet maximum sound-shaping possibilities. The solution was to take the FM engine
from the Digitone and then completely re-arrange it to form six different machines: Kick, Snare, Metal, Perc,
Tone, and Chord.
Each machine is a unique mapping of the engine, and we have spent countless hours tweaking their four
available macro controls – Color, Shape, Sweep, and Contour. Turning one of these knobs changes several,
under-the-hood, parameters at once, allowing the machines to be tweaked both effortlessly and immensely.
This is the way we have balanced simplicity with flexibility, and our vision is that you will explore this with an
adventurous mindset.
Model:Cycles is a love letter to both the groovebox paradigm and the FM sound. We hope that you will enjoy
creating music with the Cycles as much as we enjoyed making it.
Sincerely,
The Elektron Team
Model:Cycles User Manual. This manual is copyright © 2020 Elektron Music Machines MAV AB. All reproduction, digital
or printed, without written authorization is strictly prohibited. The information in this manual may change without notice.
Elektron's product names, logotypes, titles, words or phrases may be registered and protected by Swedish and interna-
tional law. All other brand or product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders.
This manual for Model:Cycles OS version 1.11 was last updated February 26, 2020.
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