The term "groovebox" was coined by Roland when it launched its MC-303 in 1996. Now, the name refers to a range of hardware synthesizers that boast all of the features necessary to produce musical grooves, including elements of larger synths, samplers, drum machines, and sequencers.
Most grooveboxes don't have a song arranger; this is one of the most significant distinctions between a groovebox and a workstation. However, the lines between them are becoming more blurred, as many grooveboxes available in 2022 let you link different grooves or sequences together in more-and-more complex ways. That said, grooveboxes are designed to fit live performers' demands and excel at making beats on the go, though most grooveboxes available today can also be utilized in any studio.
So, with all that in mind, which groovebox is best for you? Have a look at some of the finest choices in 2022.
One of Roland's modern grooveboxes, the MC-707 has extensive functions, making it similar to a complete workstation. It has eight tracks with eight short throw faders and multiple assignable pots. A major firmware upgrade following the initial release included a sampler to complement its massive Zen-Core synth engine, which digitally models old Roland synths. You may also utilize the Roland Cloud to purchase any Zen patches and sample packs, which you can then load onto the MC-707.
Take everything said about the MC-707 and reduce it to a smaller, four-track battery-powered format, and you've got yourself an MC-101. Some groovebox aficionados might prefer this more portable version to its bigger brother. Aside from only being four tracks, the main difference in capabilities is its lack of a full display screen, so making parameter adjustments requires menu-diving and learning shortcuts. However, the MC-101 also hosts the same Zen-Core synth engine and sampler technology.
Tracks is Novation's third release in its popular Circuit series. A four-track groovebox with two tracks dedicated to the synth engine, two tracks for drum samples, and two tracks for sequencing other external synths, the Circuit has velocity-sensitive pads and intuitive controls but no screen. However, you can use the USB-C connection to use the web-based Novation Components for deeper control. The sequencer is one of the Tracks' most exciting features, providing non-quantized recording, step probability, pattern mutation, micro timing, and pattern chaining.
Model:Cycles is an entry-level FM groovebox that is the same form factor as the popular Model:Samples. A fairly traditional groovebox, it has six tracks and many sound generators to choose from. This is by far the most cost-effective entryway to Elektron's workflow, and it still contains the same quality sound that you'd expect from any Elektron device. It comes with a standard Elektron 64-step sequencer that offers distinct advantages over other products, such as parameter locks, which can help you create grooves that would be impossible on other machines.
Following the success of the Polyend Tracker, the Play is a standalone groovebox that is very different. It's made for highly flexible sequencing, sample manipulation, and with an emphasis on live performance. An eight-track, sample-based groovebox and MIDI sequencer ideal for sample playback and live performance effects, the Play lacks a synth engine, but makes up for it in the way it can play samples. In Perform mode, you can make non-destructive tweaks to your sequences while using a variety of performance effects spread across the pad grid, making it an extremely fun and engaging.
The OP-Z was seen as a sequel to the OP-1, but it has firmly established itself as a distinct groovebox in its own right. This tiny device the size of TV remote control has a two-octave keyboard that takes some getting used to, but contains all of the typical hallmarks of Teenage Engineering's creative design. Its 16-track sequencer can create grooves in addition to sequencing other gear, from Eurorack to video synths to lights. There's a built-in synth engine and sampler (where you can upload your own samples or record any source with the built-in mic). The OP-Z's compatibility can be enhanced with the OP-Lab or Line Module expansion devices.