The Elektron Digitone Keys is a sophisticated FM synthesis workstation that expands upon the capabilities of the desktop Digitone module. This instrument combines a four-part FM synth engine with Elektron's distinctive sequencing environment, now enhanced with a 37-key velocity-sensitive keyboard featuring aftertouch, dedicated performance controls, and significant hardware upgrades.
Design and Layout
The Digitone Keys features an unconventional design that sets it apart from traditional synthesizers. Rather than placing the keyboard in front of a control panel, Elektron has maintained the original desktop unit's integrity and attached the keyboard to the side, similar to their 2003 Monomachine keyboard. The synth panel is raked at an angle for improved visibility, creating a narrow footprint that's practical for studio setups, leaving space at the rear for additional gear or room in front for a computer keyboard.
This layout presents some compromises. When operating from the keyboard position, users are offset to the right, requiring the left hand to operate the main encoders while the display can become partially obscured. Additionally, the instrument's width yields a relatively short three-octave keyboard range, placing it in the semi-compact synth category alongside instruments like the Moog Subsequent 37 or Access Virus Polar/Darkstar. The keys are full-sized and unweighted with a springy synth action, featuring aftertouch capability though not polyphonic.
Performance Controls
The Digitone Keys significantly expands upon the desktop version's control capabilities. To the left of the original section, weighted pitch and modulation wheels provide expressive control with dedicated assign buttons and keyboard octave shifters. Above the keyboard, eight performance encoders can toggle between default controls and a user-definable bank. Five new buttons engage various keyboard features including Multi-Map and MIDI Controller modes. All controls feature a silky smooth feel that contributes to the instrument's premium quality.
The main volume knob has been relocated to a prominent position above the wheels, with its former space now occupied by a dedicated Sound Browser button—a welcome improvement over the desktop version's shifted function access. The performance encoders provide immediate access to crucial synthesis parameters: Ratios A and B, waveform harmonics, FM levels for A and B, the Mix control for algorithm audio tap points, plus Filter Cutoff and Resonance on encoders 7 and 8.
FM Synthesis Engine
The Digitone Keys employs a sophisticated FM synthesis architecture featuring four oscillators (operators) arranged in eight routing schemes (algorithms) with various FM mappings, feedback loops, and audio output points. The design limits frequency ratios to quarter-integer steps, encouraging harmonic outcomes while the latest firmware adds ratio offsets for all operators, expanding sonic possibilities beyond the original detune option.
Breaking from traditional DX-style FM synthesis, the Digitone incorporates filters to shape raw FM sources. The filter design, common across several Elektron devices, combines a simple high-/low-pass band limiting stage with a more creative resonant filter. Eight voices are available, shared across four tracks, each with independent sequencers and arpeggiators that can create multi-part patterns or keyboard split zones.
Sequencing and MIDI Capabilities
The Digitone Keys retains all of Elektron's sequencing capabilities, including motion sequencing, parameter locks, sound locks, and conditional events on synth tracks. Eight additional MIDI tracks enable sequencing of external gear. The external audio inputs allow integration of other synthesizers into patterns, creating a comprehensive workstation environment.
The MIDI implementation offers sophisticated control of external devices. A discrete MIDI EXT mode toggles between internal and external control, with settings allowing shared control across both destinations. The eight main encoders send user-definable CC data, and up to eight different MIDI configurations can be stored and recalled as MIDI EXT slots. Transport buttons can send MIDI Start/Stop/Continue messages to external devices.
Multi-Map and Keyboard Zones
The Multi Map mode provides extensive keyboard splitting and layering capabilities. The keyboard can be divided into zones or ranges, each assignable to different internal synth tracks with note offset capabilities. Beyond simple splits, keys can trigger pattern playback, access specific sound slots from the current project, or create drum kits within key ranges using Sound Lock features. Fluid assignments allow zones to play the currently selected track or trigger the current pattern, enabling sophisticated live performance configurations.
Hardware Enhancements
The Digitone Keys features substantial hardware improvements over the desktop version. The rear panel now includes four stereo output pairs providing discrete outputs for each synth track—a significant enhancement for both live performance and studio recording. Two quarter-inch control inputs accommodate footpedals or CV modulation, addressing a notable omission from the desktop version. Expression pedals or CV inputs can be configured with up to four modulation targets each.
The addition of comprehensive portamento implementation includes options for smooth glide or stepped glissando, constant rate or constant time modes, and the ability to glide between notes in tracks or between notes using the same synth voice.
Sound Library and Presets
The instrument maintains the original collection of sounds while adding a new bank of keyboard-focused presets. These new sounds include traditional FM-associated timbres like flutes and electric pianos, optimized to take advantage of the keyboard's expressive capabilities. The velocity sensitivity and aftertouch implementation allow for nuanced performance control that wasn't possible with the desktop version's velocity-insensitive input buttons.
Overbridge Integration
The Digitone Keys supports Overbridge 2.0, providing USB connectivity for computer/DAW integration. The Overbridge plug-in offers remote hardware control and multi-channel audio streaming. Even without the plug-in, the Digitone appears as a 12-input, 2-output Core Audio/ASIO device. Overbridge enables 'plug-out' functionality, allowing DAW automation control, patch storage/recall with session files, and inline audio I/O with DAW tracks.
Build Quality
The instrument features a sturdy steel casing with dimensions of 868mm × 185mm × 90mm and weighs approximately 6kg. The construction quality matches the premium feel of the controls, creating an instrument that feels substantial and professional.
Technical Specifications
Synthesis Engine
- Synthesis type: FM (Frequency Modulation)
- Polyphony: 8 voices (shared across 4 tracks)
- Operators: 4 oscillators
- Algorithms: 8 routing schemes
- Tracks: 4 synth tracks + 8 MIDI tracks
- Sequencer: 12-track Elektron sequencer with parameter locks, sound locks, conditional events
- Arpeggiator: Per-track arpeggiators
- Effects: Smooth effects processing (as referenced in review)
- Portamento: Comprehensive implementation with glide/glissando options
Audio Outputs
Main/Track Audio Outputs (Stereo)
- Maximum output level: +18 dBu
- Output impedance: 440 Ω unbalanced
- Digital-to-analog S/N ratio: 110 dB re +18 dBu, 20 kHz BW
- Digital-to-analog S/N ratio (A-weighted): 113 dB(A) re +18 dBu, 20 kHz BW
- THD+N: Less than 0.003%, +18 dBu, 1 kHz, 20 kHz BW
Track Audio Outputs (Mono)
- Digital-to-analog S/N ratio: 112 dB re +18 dBu, 20–20000 Hz
- Digital-to-analog S/N ratio (A-weighted): 115 dB(A) re +18 dBu, 20–20000 Hz
- THD+N: Less than 0.003%, +18 dBu, 1 kHz, 20 kHz BW
Headphones Output
- Output level: +18 dBu
- Output impedance: 36 Ω
Audio Inputs
- Maximum input level: +17 dBu
- Audio input impedance: 11 kΩ
- Analog-to-digital S/N ratio: 110 dB re +17 dBu, 20–20000 Hz
- Analog-to-digital S/N ratio (A-weighted): 113 dB(A) re +17 dBu, 20–20000 Hz
- THD+N: Less than 0.003%, +17 dBu, 1 kHz, 20 kHz BW
Control Inputs
EXP/CV Inputs
- Input voltage on tip: -5 V to +5 V
- Supplies +5 V on ring
- Accepts sustain/expression pedals or CV
Hardware Features
- Display: 128 × 64 pixel OLED screen
- Keyboard: 37-key velocity sensitive with aftertouch
- Assignable pitch and modulation wheels
- 8 performance encoders with user bank
- Converters: 48 kHz, 24-bit D/A and A/D
Connectivity
- MIDI In/Out/Thru with DIN Sync out
- 2 × 1/4" impedance balanced main out jacks
- 8 × 1/4" impedance balanced track out jacks
- 1 × 1/4" stereo headphone jack
- 2 × 1/4" audio in jacks
- 2 × 1/4" CV/Expression/Sustain jacks
- Hi-Speed USB 2.0 port
Power Requirements
- Unit power consumption: 9 W typical
- Recommended power supply: PSU-3/b/c, 12V DC, 2A
- Power inlet: Center positive 5.5 × 2.5 mm barrel jack, 12V DC, 1A
Physical Specifications
- Construction: Sturdy steel casing
- Dimensions: 868mm (W) × 185mm (D) × 90mm (H, including knobs, feet, and jacks)
- Weight: Approximately 6kg
