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Description

Portable tracker sequencer and synthesizer M8 is powered by the Teensy micro-controller and inspired with love from the renowned Gameboy tracker Little Sound DJ. Featuring 8 tracks of freely assignable instruments capable of a wide range of sounds including waveform synthesis, FM, virtual analog, sample playback, and MIDI output.

Sequencer Specifications: 8 Monophonic Tracks/Voices 255 Patterns/Phrases & chains 256 Instrument Tables for advanced modulation 128 Instruments per song Song Arranger with Live mode Instantaneous song recall Full MIDI input & Output support

Instruments & Effects: Wavsynth - Classic console & computer chip emulation. Macrosynth - Based on Mutable Instruments Braids FM - 4 OP 12 algorithm with feedback per operator. Sampler - 8/16/24 bit mono and full stereo wav format. MIDI Instruments with 10 user definable CCs. Global reverb, chorus, delay and a master bus limiter. Sample recording and song rendering/bouncing. No sample memory or length limitation.

Hardware Specifications: 3.5mm TRS MIDI (Type A) input and output. Stereo audio input and Headphone/main output USB MIDI and Audio compliant (Micro-USB) SDHC Micro SD slot for storage 1200mAh USB rechargeable battery - up to 6 hours use. High quality 2.8" IPS display with capacitive touch Dimensions: 96mm x 133mm x 18~20mm

Product specs

Brand Dirtywave
Model M8 Portable Tracker Sequencer / Synthesizer
Finish Black
Year 2021 - 2025
Categories Digital Synthesizers, Grooveboxes
Analog / Digital Digital
MIDI I/O MIDI Input, MIDI Output, USB MIDI
Polyphony 8 Voices

FAQs

What type of synthesis does the Dirtywave M8 Tracker offer?

The Dirtywave M8 Tracker is a digital synthesizer that provides multiple synthesis engines, including FM, subtractive, and sample-based synthesis, allowing for a diverse range of sound creation.

How many voices of polyphony does the Dirtywave M8 Tracker support?

The Dirtywave M8 Tracker supports 8 voices of polyphony, enabling complex and layered compositions.

Can the Dirtywave M8 Tracker be used as a MIDI controller?

Yes, the Dirtywave M8 Tracker features MIDI input and output as well as USB MIDI, allowing it to function as a MIDI controller and integrate seamlessly with other MIDI-compatible gear.

Is the Dirtywave M8 Tracker suitable for live performances?

The Dirtywave M8 Tracker is designed with portability and versatility in mind, making it suitable for live performances with its compact design and versatile sound capabilities.

Does the Dirtywave M8 Tracker have a built-in battery for portable use?

Yes, the Dirtywave M8 Tracker is equipped with a built-in battery, providing up to 12 hours of use, making it ideal for mobile music production.

What kind of connectivity options does the Dirtywave M8 Tracker offer?

The Dirtywave M8 Tracker offers MIDI input and output, USB MIDI, and a headphone output, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of audio and MIDI devices.

Red Means Recording

Red Means Recording

Dirtywave M8 Tracker - Introduction

Video thumbnail for Dirtywave M8 Tracker - Introduction by Red Means Recording

Dirtywave M8 Tracker - Introduction

Red Means Recording

Red Means Recording

Video thumbnail for The Dirtywave M8 Tracker Experience with mikey303 in the Studio by EZBOT

The Dirtywave M8 Tracker Experience with mikey303 in the Studio

EZBOT

EZBOT

Video thumbnail for Dirtywave M8 Tracker Beginner Tips and Tricks by Red Means Recording

Dirtywave M8 Tracker Beginner Tips and Tricks

Red Means Recording

Red Means Recording

Video thumbnail for Dirtywave M8 Tracker by Dirtywave

Dirtywave M8 Tracker

Dirtywave

Dirtywave

Video thumbnail for 3 Crucial Add-Ons For The Dirtywave M8 Tracker (And Other Handhelds) by EZBOT

3 Crucial Add-Ons For The Dirtywave M8 Tracker (And Other Handhelds)

EZBOT

EZBOT

Reviews

PROS

  • Enables rapid, intentional music creation without quality compromise

  • Tracker interface fosters high creativity once mastered

  • Strong, supportive Dirtywave community for assistance

  • Intuitive and immediate user interface

  • Performs better than competitors like Polyend tracker

  • Suitable for users new to trackers, simplifying song assembly

CONS

  • Tracker interface can initially intimidate new users

  • Market filled with overpriced resales by scalpers

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Dirtywave M8 Tracker Model 01.

Build quality

  • The M8 Tracker is praised for its lightweight and high-quality construction, making it portable and suitable for travel.

    Source
  • The original design includes a foam pad as structural support behind the keys, providing added protection and a snug fit for the battery.

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Features and functionality

  • The device allows for automation of shuffle changes, which isn't typically possible with standard drum synths.

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  • The M8 allows audio in/out and MIDI in/out via USB, making it versatile for studio setups and live performances.

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  • The M8 supports stereo samples and has no sample length limit, offering flexibility not found in some other grooveboxes.

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Use cases and applications

  • Users find the M8 Tracker ideal for creating music discreetly in public spaces, as it resembles a gameboy emulator.

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  • The M8 is favored for its ease in organizing and arranging songs, ideal for sequencing external gear in complex setups.

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User experience

  • The absence of internet connectivity on the M8 Tracker aids in focusing on music creation without distractions.

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  • Some owners find the M8's interface initially daunting but quickly adapt to its efficient workflow, describing it as fast and addictive.

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Comparisons

  • Compared to the OP-1, the M8 Tracker is considered less conspicuous and more affordable for public music-making sessions.

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  • Users find the Digitakt easier for sound design, while the M8 excels in composition and full-track creation, especially for IDM and breakbeat genres.

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Mods and upgrades

  • Upgrading the battery in the M8 Tracker Model 01 can significantly enhance its battery life, though larger batteries may cause a minor bulge in the backplate.

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  • Some users replace the original battery with a 2700mAh Xperia battery, providing about 30% longer usage but requiring soldering modifications.

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  • It's possible to modify the casing to better fit larger batteries by removing excess metal on the inner lower lip, potentially using a Dremel tool for adjustments.

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  • The M8's LSDJ-inspired workflow is praised for its advanced features, including chains, phrases, and inline effects, enhancing creative sampling and synth use.

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Setup and maintenance

  • Battery replacement on the M8 Tracker Model 01 is straightforward, requiring the removal of just four screws to access the battery compartment.

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Critic Reviews

Dirtywave’s super-stylish portable tracker could be your new best M8 | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

Dirtywave's M8 Tracker is a visually striking handheld device that brings a fresh take on music production, offering multiple synthesis options, sampling capabilities, and a user-friendly interface with a touchscreen. Its ability to handle eight tracks and a variety of effects is commendable, making it a powerful tool for both budding and seasoned musicians. However, its price point at $450 may be a barrier for some, and the reliance on a rechargeable battery could pose challenges during extensive sessions. Still, for those seeking portability and versatility in their music-making, the M8 Tracker could be an excellent addition to their setup.

positive

5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 12 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
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1 star
okyeron

Excellent device

Never used a tracker before and M8 makes it easy to get songs put together very quickly.

Preferred Settings + Usage:

FMsynth

Genres:

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Knxwledge uses Dirtywave M8 Tracker Model 01

Knxwledge

Music Producer, DJ

NxWorries

...
Verified via Twitch

Knxwledge has been confirmed to use the Dirtywave M8 Tracker, as evidenced by his live streams on Twitch, where he features an overlay of the device's screen in his videos.

See how Moe Shop uses Dirtywave M8 Tracker Model 01

Moe Shop

Composer, Music Producer

...
Verified via Twitter

In this Twitter post, Moe Shop shows a WIP they've done using Dirtywave's M8 Tracker.

See how EPROM uses Dirtywave M8 Tracker Model 01

EPROM

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via BandCamp

Eprom has created a M8 tracker mix for one of his tracks "Untitled Emotional Acid" using the Dirtywave M8 Tracker. The song can be found on his bandcamp.

Eprom has also posted himself playing the track from his M8 on twitter. https://x.com/eprombeats/status/1589764194819538945?s=20

Bandcamp https://eprom.bandcamp.com/track/untitled-emotional-acid-tracker-mix

See how Red Means Recording uses Dirtywave M8 Tracker Model 01

Red Means Recording

Music Producer

...
Verified via Bandcamp

Jeremy Blake, also known as Red Means Recording, created the entire album "Rituals" using the Dirtywave M8 Tracker, as confirmed by the album's description on Bandcamp.

Album Usage

The Dirtywave M8 Tracker Model 01 has been featured on the following albums:

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

2 alternative and related items for Dirtywave M8 Tracker Model 01, curated by the Equipboard community.

Polyend Tracker

$499.00 - $499.99

similar sound

also a tracker with more focus in samples and less portable

Polyend Tracker Mini

$732.00 - $799.00

similar sound

the portable cousin of the polyend tracker , but with built in synths

More Dirtywave Production & Groove

Community setups

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