Elektron Analog Keys - Resolver

Payton Carter

"So I've been sitting on the Keys for quite some time now, never finding enough time to get comfortable with the Elektron sequencer. I was finally able to fill out this track, though my live performance skills are still a little sketchy!

I really dig the sound of the Analog Keys. I'm not one to jump on the analog bandwagon, but there's something about its character that's really satisfying. As just an analog poly synth, I think it's already outstanding. But if you throw in the unique sequencer, and it's an instrument in its own class. Everything in this track comes from just the Keys; four monophonic voices do everything from pads to leads to drums. How many other four voice synths can build an entire track from scratch?

Overbridge is awesome. I recorded all four tracks + FX individually over a single USB connection. This is a great improvement over just recording a stereo mix (like with the Circuit), because I can go back, change track levels, add volume automation, etc. That's what I did here, with mastering in Ozone Elements 9.

My only complaint is that the tiny screen is awful. The low resolution graphics are actually surprisingly good at displaying all the necessary information, but the screen itself has no contrast, terrible viewing angles, and a very slow response rate. Trying to view the screen while its perched up on a desk is a total pain. I'd kill to put the recent Elektron OLEDs in the Keys.

The process of building a drum track with sound locks was initially quite tedious, but it's been made much easier thanks to a recent software update that allows you to press a trigger + Yes to preview a step (thanks @Ivar Tryti !)"