The deton8 by Twisted Electrons is a compact drum computer with 8-bit charm, sample player and synthesizer with the popular NES sound. The eight instruments/voices are spread over seven drum tracks and one synthesizer part. While the drums draw from a selection of samples and wavetables, the synth generates its sounds on the basis of a chip from the Nintendo NES. Via ring modulator, distortion, bit reduction and delay, the overall sound can be changed extensively.
The sequencer provides 16 memory locations for your own creations, which can even be chained (Patternchain). In addition, different parameters can be assigned to each track and step in the pattern. Thanks to the arpeggiator in the synthesizer track, the retro sounds are even more authentic. Playback effects such as stutter, roll and reverse complete the expressive possibilities during the performance. With the free Sample Editor available for download, you can quickly and easily transfer your own samples to deton8 via USB.
Twisted Electrons Deton8 is a fun little box, with a lot of controls. It's intuitive to use and you can dial in a lot of sound changes that I found stimulating from a creativity point of view. It pairs well with my Arturia Microfreak. I haven't used the sample editor yet as I'm in the process of moving abroad so no computer available, but that will be the icing on the cake from my perspective. The ability to load your own samples just takes coming up with weird sounds (if that's something you're into) to a whole new level. The build quality is great and the metal chassis feels reassuringly sturdy. Definitely worth checking out.