The TB-303 in the early 80s has lots of patterns and song mode, so this notion that adding more would stretch technical limits is absurd. The system consists of two synth tracks, two MIDI tracks, four drum tracks and a groovebox that provides a hands-on production workflow.

Like the original, the highlight of Circuit Tracks is the slick, approachable and surprisingly versatile sequencing workflow. The former idea is cleverly implemented; the latter is a bit weird but easy enough to get the hang of. It is just off-black in colour, and the central feature is 32 velocity-sensitive RGB pads in an 8×4 arrangement.

Each synth is equipped with a resonant multi-mode filter with a drive control, three routable ADSR envelopes and two LFOs, plus chorus/phaser, EQ and distortion effects.

Battery life is around four hours, which isn’t massive, but USB power certainly means more options for powering the unit on the go. Circuit Tracks gives you total control of your setup, with two dedicated MIDI tracks capable of sending notes and CC automation. To enter music, you can choose scales which “knock out” notes that don’t appear in those scales, or have the pads act as a pseudo keyboard with “black” and “white” keys. Tracks also adds a pair of audio input jacks, allowing external signals to be mixed internally and processed through the effects.

Each note or gate can be assigned a percentage chance of playing on each loop, producing random variations. The Tracks’ ability to output DIN, USB MIDI, and digital/analog sync sets it well above any other competing device, and offers functionality on par with some of the best standard sequencers.

Another new trick is Mutate, which destructively alters the currently selected pattern in subtle ways.The device focuses on providing a simple and intuitive workflow – select a scale, choose a preset, dial in a synth sound with the eight macro knobs, sequence or record a pattern, lay down a drum beat, and add in delay and reverb. Novation Circuit Tracks is an agile groovebox for creating and performing electronic music without resistance. Its comprehensive connectivity enables you to connect Circuit Tracks to your studio, with full-size five-pin MIDI in, out, and thru, and analogue sync out. Not only that, you will be able to take advantage of being able to customise the groovebox further with exclusive sound packs and presets. Connectivity: The Tracks improved massively over the OG Circuit in terms of connectivity, and it shines here even when compared to competing devices.