The Elektron Digitone is a compact FM synthesizer workstation that combines a sophisticated four-part FM synthesis engine with Elektron's renowned performance sequencer. This groovebox represents a modern take on FM synthesis, addressing traditional usability concerns while maintaining the sonic richness that made FM famous.

The Digitone shares the same form factor and price range as the Digitakt, featuring Elektron's signature "future retro" aesthetic with high-contrast displays, tactile encoders, and clicky buttons. The device stands out with its rare use of color-coded track selector buttons that visually differentiate it from its siblings.

What sets the Digitone apart is its intelligent approach to FM synthesis. Rather than overwhelming users with complex programming, Elektron has streamlined the interface while preserving the sonic capabilities. The synthesis engine limits frequency ratios to multiples of 0.25, naturally guiding users toward harmonically coherent timbres while still allowing access to FM's more experimental territories.

The instrument excels as both a standalone groovebox and an integrated part of a larger setup. With four dedicated MIDI sequencer tracks and stereo audio inputs, external gear can be seamlessly incorporated and benefit from the Digitone's effects and sequencing capabilities. The upcoming Overbridge integration will provide discrete USB outputs for each track and full computer integration.

Technical Specifications

Synthesis Engine

• Type: 4-operator FM synthesis with subtractive filtering
• Polyphony: 8 voices total
• Multitimbrality: 4-part
• Algorithms: 8 different operator routing configurations
• Frequency Ratios: Quantized to 0.25 multiples with detune control
• Waveforms: Sine waves with morphing capability for carriers and modulators
• Feedback: Self-modulation loop control per algorithm
• Mix Control: Blend between main carrier and alternate operator outputs

Sound Architecture

• FM Modulators: 2 sources (A operator and B1/B2 group) with dedicated envelopes
• Envelope Types: Attack, Decay, End Level (non-ADSR)
• Envelope Features: Adjustable onset time, retriggering options
• Filter System: Dual-stage filtering
  • Primary: Multimode envelope-controlled (2/4-pole LP/HP with resonance)
  • Secondary: Simple low-pass and high-pass pair for band limiting
• Drive Effect: Per-voice saturation
• Amplitude Envelope: Standard ADSR

Effects System

• Send Effects (Pattern-wide):
  • Chorus (can send to Reverb)
  • Delay (can send to Reverb)
  • Reverb
• Master Effect: Overdrive for warmth and boost

Modulation

• LFOs: 2 per track
  • LFO2 can modulate LFO1 parameters
  • Trigger modes and start phase control
  • Quantized modulation of operators (0.25 steps)
• MIDI Modulation: Velocity, mod wheel, aftertouch scaling
• Modulation Assignments: Up to 4 parameters per mod source
• Keyboard Scaling: Individual scaling per modulator operator

Sequencer

• Pattern Storage: 8 banks × 16 patterns per project
• Pattern Length: Up to 64 steps per pattern
• Track Independence: Each track can have different pattern lengths
• Recording Modes:
  • Live Recording (with/without quantization)
  • Grid Recording (X0X-style step entry)
• Parameter Locking: Real-time and step-by-step automation
• Algorithm P-Locking: Dynamic algorithm switching per step
• Sound Locking: Recall different sounds per step
• Conditional Locks: Probability and logic-based step triggers
• Fill Function: Conditional step reveals
• Micro-timing: Per-step timing adjustment
• Scale Constraints: Diatonic key/scale limitation options
• Arpeggiator: Per synth track (not MIDI tracks)
  • Multi-mode operation
  • Per-step pitch offsets
  • Loop length control

MIDI Implementation

• MIDI Tracks: 4 dedicated external sequencer tracks
• MIDI I/O: Full-size In, Out, Thru ports
• USB MIDI: Via USB connection
• MIDI CC: All parameters (except Arp) controllable via CC
• Chromatic Keyboard: Trig buttons function as keyboard

Physical Interface

• Dimensions: 215 × 176 mm front panel (same as Digitakt)
• Trig Buttons: 16 horizontally-compressed buttons
• Track Selectors: 4 color-coded dedicated buttons
• Encoders: 8 main encoders with grippy texture
• Display: High-contrast chunky display
• Controls: Tactile clicky buttons throughout

Connectivity

• Audio I/O:
  • Stereo inputs (1/4" jacks)
  • Stereo outputs (1/4" jacks)
  • Headphone output (1/4" jack)
• MIDI: In, Out, Thru (full-size DIN)
• USB: Computer connection and MIDI
• Power: 12V DC adapter
• Overbridge: Planned discrete outputs per track via USB

Storage & Organization

• Internal Storage: '+Drive' for projects and master sound library
• Sound Pool: 128 sounds per project
• Sound Management:
  • Tag-based organization
  • Sound export/import between projects
  • Flat list and filtered browsing
• Project System: Self-contained projects with patterns and sounds
• Preset Library: Pre-loaded with demonstration patches

Performance Features

• Pattern Chaining: Queued pattern changes (always start from beginning)
• Track Muting: Real-time track control
• Live Performance: Real-time sound and effect manipulation
• External Integration: Audio inputs for external gear routing through effects
• Workflow: Integrated groovebox and sequencer environment

Limitations

• No velocity-sensitive keys (external controller recommended)
• No Direct Jump/Temp Jump pattern modes
• No assignable envelopes beyond dedicated ones
• 8-voice polyphony limitation
• No smooth LFO modulation of quantized operators