The Polyend Tracker+ represents the latest evolution in Polyend's hardware tracker revolution, building upon five years of continuous development since the original Tracker's 2020 release. Marketed with the tagline "Not new, but better," this sampler, synthesizer, and sequencer combines the nostalgic workflow of classic trackers with modern functionality and improved build quality.

Design & Build Quality

The Tracker+ maintains the same physical dimensions as its predecessor while delivering significant quality improvements. The original hard plastic buttons have been replaced with more tactile rubberized controls, and the previously problematic jog wheel has been upgraded with a sturdier, more reliable mechanism. The device features a large, high-resolution screen that provides crisp and bright visuals, making the interface clear and accessible even in various lighting conditions.

The mechanical keyboard offers fast and responsive navigation with dedicated keys, while 48 backlit silicon pads provide quick note and pattern entry with visual feedback. These pads also function as a highly customizable keyboard controller with editable scales. The centerpiece navigation control is a metal-constructed knob with haptic feedback, designed for both fast scrolling and precise adjustments.

Enhanced Sampling Capabilities

One of the most significant improvements in the Tracker+ is the addition of stereo sampling support, addressing a major limitation of the original model. The device now offers approximately 720 seconds of mono sampling or 360 seconds of stereo sampling at 44.1kHz, a substantial increase from the original's 130 seconds of mono sampling capability. This expanded memory can be further extended by using lower sample rates when maximum duration is required.

The sampling workflow remains versatile, supporting one-shot samples, looping samples, sliced samples, wavetable conversion, and granular synthesis modes. Users can source samples from their existing libraries, record new material through line or microphone inputs, or capture audio from the built-in FM radio for unlimited inspiration.

Comprehensive Synthesis Engine

The Tracker+ introduces five distinct synthesizer engines that can be loaded into three available synthesizer slots, with each synth capable of up to six-voice polyphony:

ACD Synthesizer: A 303-inspired acid synthesizer featuring sawtooth and square oscillators, a sub-oscillator, noise generation, and three low-pass filter types. This engine excels at creating classic acid basslines and sequences.

FAT Synthesizer: Drawing inspiration from the Minimoog, this synthesizer provides three oscillators and three filter types, delivering rich, warm analog-style sounds perfect for bass and lead synthesis.

VAP Synthesizer: Designed specifically for polyphonic applications, featuring two variable-waveform oscillators and a comprehensive multi-mode filter with 15 different filter types, making it versatile for pads, chords, and complex harmonic content.

WTFM Synthesizer: A two-operator FM synthesis engine with feedback capabilities, variable waveforms, and the same multi-mode filter system as the VAP synthesizer, enabling both classic FM tones and experimental sound design.

PERC Synthesizer: A dedicated drum synthesizer featuring six specialized engines for kick, tom, snare, hi-hat, cymbal, and percussion sounds. This engine can produce complete drum kits, from classic TR-style sounds to FM percussion and analog disco toms. The tom algorithm can even be played chromatically for melodic applications.

Each synthesizer includes appropriate modulation capabilities, with simpler engines (ACD and FAT) featuring hardwired modulation routing, while more complex engines (VAP and WTFM) offer modulation matrices for flexible routing. All synth patches support up to seven named macros that can modulate up to five parameters in varying amounts, which can then be sequenced for dynamic sound evolution.

Expanded Sequencing Capabilities

The Tracker+ doubles the track count from the original's eight tracks to 16 tracks, though with specific limitations. Tracks 1-8 offer complete flexibility, capable of sequencing samples, external MIDI devices, internal synthesizers, or combinations thereof simultaneously. Tracks 9-16 are restricted to MIDI and internal synthesizer sequencing only, making them less useful for traditional sample-based tracking workflows.

Each song can contain up to 255 patterns, with each pattern supporting up to 128 steps. The sequencing paradigm maintains the classic tracker approach where tracks scroll vertically in a spreadsheet-like format, with each cell containing note information that can trigger one of up to 48 different instruments plus up to two effects per step.

USB Audio Interface Integration

A major new feature is the integrated USB audio interface functionality. When connected to a computer via the included USB-C cable, the Tracker+ provides 14 stereo inputs and one stereo output at 16-bit/44.1kHz resolution. The 14 outputs include the master stereo output, individual outputs for the first eight tracks, dedicated reverb and delay outputs, and separate outputs for the three synthesizer slots. This integration allows for detailed multitrack recording and mixing in digital audio workstations.

Connectivity & Integration

The rear panel maintains the same comprehensive connectivity as the original, featuring 3.5mm stereo line outputs, mono line input, mono microphone input, MIDI input/output, a micro-SD card slot, and USB-C connectivity. The USB connection provides both power and class-compliant MIDI communication, while also serving the new audio interface functionality.

The device supports bidirectional MIDI implementation, allowing it to sequence and control external hardware while also functioning as a sound module controlled by external MIDI software or hardware devices. This makes it an excellent centerpiece for hybrid hardware/software workflows.

Creative Features & Performance Tools

Beyond basic sequencing, the Tracker+ includes numerous creative tools for pattern manipulation and live performance. The Performance mode enables real-time pattern breaking, mangling, and augmentation during live performances. Additional creative features include automatic filling, randomization, probability-based triggering, selection rendering, per-step effects, live recording capabilities, batch parameter editing, micro-tuning, micro-timing adjustments, and roll functions.

The device maintains compatibility with MOD files, allowing users to import classic tracker files or export projects for finishing in modern software trackers. An offline sample editor provides detailed waveform editing capabilities, while stem export functionality facilitates integration with external production workflows.

Legacy Features

The Tracker+ retains several unique features from its predecessor, including the built-in FM radio for spontaneous sampling, the comprehensive sample editor, and even the distinctive Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) emulator. These elements contribute to the device's character and provide unexpected sources of inspiration and entertainment.

Technical Specifications

Audio Specifications

• Sample Memory: ~720 seconds mono / ~360 seconds stereo (44.1kHz)
• Sample Rate: 44.1kHz (variable rates available for extended recording time)
• Audio Resolution: 16-bit
• Polyphony: Up to 6 voices per synthesizer (3 synthesizer slots total)
• Audio Interface: 14 stereo inputs, 1 stereo output via USB
• Audio Interface Resolution: 16-bit/44.1kHz

Sequencing Specifications

• Total Tracks: 16 (Tracks 1-8: samples/MIDI/synths, Tracks 9-16: MIDI/synths only)
• Sample Tracks: 8 dedicated sample tracks
• MIDI Tracks: 16 available
• Synthesizer Slots: 3 slots
• Instruments per Project: 48 sample instruments + 3 synthesizers
• Patterns per Song: Up to 255
• Steps per Pattern: Up to 128
• Effects per Step: Up to 2

Synthesizer Engines

• ACD: 303-inspired (sawtooth/square oscillators, sub-oscillator, noise, 3 LP filter types)
• FAT: Minimoog-inspired (3 oscillators, 3 filter types)
• VAP: Polyphonic (2 variable-waveform oscillators, multi-mode filter with 15 types)
• WTFM: 2-operator FM with feedback (variable waveforms, multi-mode filter)
• PERC: Drum synthesizer (6 engines: kick, tom, snare, hi-hat, cymbal, percussion)
• Macros per Synth: Up to 7 (each can modulate up to 5 parameters)

Workflow Features

• Built-in FM radio for sampling
• NES emulator
• Offline sample editor
• Performance mode for live manipulation
• Automatic filling and randomization
• Probability-based sequencing
• Micro-tuning and micro-timing
• Roll functions
• Live recording
• Batch parameter editing

Physical Specifications

• Height (with knob): 1.3 inches (3.3 cm)
• Width: 11.02 inches (28.2 cm)
• Depth: 8.15 inches (20.7 cm)
• Weight: 2.65 pounds (1.2 kg)

Connectivity

• Audio Outputs: Stereo line out (3.5mm)
• Audio Inputs: Mono line in (3.5mm), mono mic in (3.5mm)
• MIDI: MIDI in/out (3.5mm)
• USB: USB-C (power, MIDI, audio interface)
• Storage: Micro-SD card slot

Interface Components

• Display: High-resolution LCD screen
• Keyboard: Mechanical keyboard with dedicated function keys
• Pads: 48 backlit silicon pads with velocity sensitivity
• Navigation: Metal haptic feedback knob
• Buttons: Rubberized tactile buttons (improved from original hard plastic)

Power Requirements

• Power Source: USB-C (low power consumption for portable use)
• Compatibility: Any USB power source

Factory Included Accessories

• Polyend Tracker+ unit
• USB-A power adapter
• USB-C cable (2 meters)
• Stereo 3.5mm to 2x mono 6.3mm adapter
• Minijack to MIDI DIN adapter (Type B)
• 16GB MicroSD card
• MicroSD to USB-A adapter

File Compatibility

• Import Formats: MOD files, various sample formats
• Export Capabilities: Stem export, MOD file export
• Project Compatibility: Compatible with Tracker Mini v2.0 projects