The Elektron Digitone Keys is a powerhouse of digital synthesis, combining the rich, complex tones of FM synthesis with the tactile immediacy of a built-in keyboard. As a sibling to the original Digitone, the Digitone Keys retains all the beloved features of its predecessor while adding a full-sized keyboard for expressive playability. Whether you’re a seasoned synthesist or a curious beginner, this tutorial will guide you through the essentials of the Digitone Keys, helping you unlock its full potential.

Getting Started: Setting Up Your Digitone Keys

Before diving into sound design and sequencing, let’s ensure your Digitone Keys is ready to go:

  1. Power Up
    Connect the Digitone Keys to a power source using the included adapter. Alternatively, you can power it with 6 AA batteries for portable use.
  2. Connect Audio Outputs
    Use the 1/4” audio outputs to connect the Digitone Keys to your studio monitors, mixer, or audio interface. For headphones, use the dedicated headphone jack.
  3. MIDI and USB Connections
    Connect MIDI cables to sync with external gear or use the USB port for MIDI and audio over USB. This is especially useful for integrating the Digitone Keys with your DAW.
  4. Update the Firmware
    Check Elektron’s website for the latest firmware updates. These often include new features, bug fixes, and performance improvements.

Understanding the Interface

The Digitone Keys’ interface is designed for intuitive control, but it’s helpful to familiarize yourself with its layout:

  • Screen: The central display shows parameter values, menus, and sequencer information.
  • Encoders: Use these to adjust parameters and navigate menus.
  • Track Buttons (1-4): Each button corresponds to one of the Digitone Keys’ four tracks.
  • Function Keys (F1-F4): These provide shortcuts to common functions like saving, loading, and accessing menus.
  • Step Buttons: Used for sequencing and step editing.
  • Play/Stop and Tempo Controls: Start/stop the sequencer and adjust the tempo.
  • Keyboard: The full-sized, velocity-sensitive keyboard allows for expressive playing and real-time control.

Step 1: Creating Your First Sound

Let’s start by designing a simple patch:

  1. Select a Track
    Press one of the track buttons (1-4) to select a track. Each track can host its own sound.
  2. Initialize the Patch
    Hold the FUNC button and press NO to load a default patch. This gives you a clean slate to work with.
  3. Explore the Oscillators
    The Digitone Keys uses FM synthesis, which involves modulating one waveform (the carrier) with another (the modulator). Press OSC to access the oscillator menu.
    • Adjust Ratio to change the pitch relationship between the carrier and modulator.
    • Experiment with Feedback to add harmonics and complexity.
  4. Shape the Sound with Filters and Envelopes
    Press FILTER to access the filter section. Use the analog-style filter to shape the tone.
    Press AMP to adjust the amplitude envelope (ADSR), which controls how the sound evolves over time.
  5. Add Effects
    Press EFFECT to access reverb, delay, and chorus. These can add depth and space to your sound.

Step 2: Programming a Sequence

The Digitone Keys’ sequencer is one of its most powerful features. Here’s how to create a basic sequence:

  1. Enter Record Mode
    Press REC and then PLAY to start recording. Play notes on the keyboard or step buttons to create a pattern.
  2. Use Parameter Locks (P-Locks)
    While the sequencer is running, hold a step button and adjust any parameter (e.g., filter cutoff, oscillator ratio). This locks the parameter change to that step, creating dynamic, evolving patterns.
  3. Add Conditional Triggers
    Hold FUNC and press a step button to set a condition (e.g., play every other time, or randomly). This adds variation and complexity to your sequence.
  4. Experiment with Micro-Timing
    Hold FUNC and turn the TEMPO encoder to adjust the timing of individual steps, creating swing or groove.

Step 3: Layering Tracks

The Digitone Keys has four tracks, which can be used to layer sounds or create polyphonic sequences:

  1. Assign Sounds to Tracks
    Press a track button (1-4) and load a different patch onto each track. For example, use Track 1 for a bass sound, Track 2 for chords, Track 3 for a lead, and Track 4 for percussion.
  2. Sequence Each Track
    Create unique patterns for each track. Use the TRACK button to switch between tracks while sequencing.
  3. Balance the Mix
    Press MIXER to adjust the volume, panning, and effects send for each track.

Step 4: Saving and Organizing Projects

Once you’ve created a patch or sequence, it’s important to save your work:

  1. Save a Patch
    Hold FUNC and press YES to save the current patch. Give it a name and assign it to a location in the patch bank.
  2. Save a Pattern
    Hold FUNC and press YES while in the sequencer view to save the pattern.
  3. Organize Projects
    Use the PROJECT menu to create and manage projects. Each project can contain multiple patterns, patches, and settings.

Step 5: Advanced Tips and Tricks

Now that you’ve mastered the basics, here are some advanced techniques to explore:

  1. Sound Locking
    Use sound locks to change the patch for individual steps in a sequence. This allows you to create intricate, evolving patterns.
  2. External MIDI Control
    Use the Digitone Keys to sequence external synths or control it with an external MIDI controller for expanded playability.
  3. Overbridge Integration
    If you’re using a DAW, connect the Digitone Keys via USB and use Elektron’s Overbridge software for seamless integration and multi-track recording.
  4. Experiment with Modulation
    Use the LFOs and modulation matrix to add movement and complexity to your sounds. For example, modulate the filter cutoff with an LFO for a sweeping effect.

Conclusion: Unleash Your Creativity

The Elektron Digitone Keys is a versatile and inspiring instrument that rewards exploration and experimentation. By mastering its synthesis engine, sequencer, and performance features, you can create everything from lush ambient textures to driving techno grooves.

Remember, the key to unlocking the Digitone Keys’ potential is practice and curiosity. Don’t be afraid to dive into the menus, tweak parameters, and push the boundaries of what’s possible. Happy sound designing!