Circuit Rhythm Sample-Based Drum Machine

Novation's Circuit Rhythm arrived as the sampler-focused sibling to the Circuit Tracks, proving that you don't need a massive footprint or a wall of knobs to make serious beats. It's built on the same compact chassis as its synth-leaning partner, but where Tracks splits its real estate between synths and samples, Rhythm goes all-in on eight dedicated sample tracks, giving you a focused workflow that feels both immediate and surprisingly deep.

The heart of the machine is its 32 velocity-sensitive RGB-backlit pads, which function as your performance interface, sequencer grid, and chromatic keyboard depending on context. You've got eight rotary encoders for real-time tweaking of sample parameters like pitch, start and end points, envelope shape, overdrive, and high and low pass filters with resonance control. The sequencer runs 32 steps per track and chains up to 256 steps, with support for both quantized and micro-step recording that lets you add trills and off-grid swing without leaving the grid entirely. Eight voices of polyphony means you can layer and resample freely. Effects include reverb, delay, beat repeat, sidechain compression, and a master compressor, plus grid FX like vinyl simulation, reverse, gating, and phasing that you can trigger live. You can record samples directly through the stereo inputs, load from microSD cards, slice them, reverse them, loop them, or play them chromatically. The rechargeable battery gives you four hours of untethered creativity, and MIDI connectivity via 5-pin DIN lets you sync with other gear.

The community response has been consistently positive, with reviewers and users praising its balance of accessibility and depth. The pattern mutation feature and chromatic sample playback have become standout draws for people who want more than just drum sequencing. Some finger drummers note that the micro-step approach, while clever, still keeps you somewhat tethered to the grid, which is worth knowing if you're coming from a purely analog workflow. The compact size and battery life make it genuinely portable, and it integrates well into both studio and live setups without feeling like a compromise.