Model:Cycles review: An affordable and approachable FM groovebox

Last year though, it made a serious play for the entry level with the Model:Samples ($299), an affordable, sample-based groovebox that simplified Elektron's unique workflow for beginners. So it only makes sense that Elektron would want to give the Model:Samples its own FM-based partner in crime.Physically the Model:Cycles is basically a palette-swapped version of the Model:Samples -- subzero to the M:S' Scorpion. Like the Model:Samples before it, it’s a very hands-on and approachable device that maintains Elektron’s powerful and unique sequencer. The Model:Cycles takes this further by hiding even more of the sound-sculpting options behind vague terms like "color" and "contour."The whole sound-design process starts with picking a "machine." This is essentially the equivalent of an algorithm on any other FM synth, except here each machine has been given a name that helps you identify what it's best suited for (and each has adorable RPG-style stat cards). Plus there's a control-all button that allows you to quickly mangle your creation before reverting it back to its original state by pressing function and pattern.Also like the Samples, and unlike some of Elektron's more expensive gear, the Model:Cycles is hands-on with almost no menu diving. When the Model:Samples was released last year, Elektron said it was working on a battery handle for the device (and by extension the Model:Cycles). The Elektron Model:Samples and Model:Cycles It's more of a traditional synth than a groovebox, but its features and sound-sculpting capabilities are far beyond what the Model:Cycles offers. If you'd rather build tracks around a proper synth engine, get the Model:Cycles.To give credit where it's due, Elektron clearly learned a thing or two over the past year. The Samples only operated in semitones, which can be a huge problem if you're working with a melodic sample that's slightly out of tune.The Cycles also adds velocity as a modulation source -- though I really wish Elektron would have included aftertouch here.