Cyclone Analogic TT-303 Bass Bot V2

SYNTH ENGINE Authentically,
a single VCO is combined with a
24dB low-pass fi lter under the
control of a single-stage envelope
SEQUENCER The Mk2 adds two new
Pattern modes and additional ‘Mute’
and ‘Hammer’ modifi ers as well
adjustable Slide Time and Swing
ANALOGUE CONTROL 1volt/octave
CV/Gate and Accent pulse outputs
can be routed to external synths, and
you get (24PPQN-only) Clock outs
FILTER IN This 3.5mm jack socket
allows you to route external signals
through the fabled 303 fi lter, with the
help of the useful Filter Hold mode
and both individual notes and
patterns can be triggered via MIDI.
It’s also good to now have a variable
note Shuffl e option built in.
In sonic terms, the MkII TT-303
remains similar to the MKI and the
Roland original. The controls in the
synth section are limited to Cutoff,
Resonance, Envelope Modulation
and Decay time, with Accent
determining the difference in
loudness and envelope depth
between normal and accented notes.
Although Bass Bot can self-calibrate
its tuning, the tuning knob also
remains in place. Waveform selection
also outputs a pre-fi lter VCO signal.
External audio can be processed by
the Bass Bot’s 24dB/oct fi lter via the
mini-jack Filter Input. A simple
key-press ‘Filter Hold’ function
helpfully negates the requirement for
a Note On message to pass audio.
The TT-303 features full size
MIDI In/Out sockets, but also
outputs analogue CV/Gate/Accent
signals as well as (24ppqn only)
clock and Run/Start trigger pulses.
Though hardly cheap, the TT-303
gets you very close to the revered tones
of a TB-303. This new MkII version of
Cyclone’s take on the 303 is perhaps
not as visually engaging as the MkI
(or the Roland original), but its larger
knobs and clearer panel do make it
easier to use. If you’re in the market
for a TB-style box, this offering
should be high on your list.
FM VERDICT
9.0
This great-sounding TB-style
synth/sequencer combines
authentic synthesis with an
updated sequencer
that doesn’t entirely lose
sight of its origins
is still determined by the back-panel
saw/square switch. The only real
disappointment this time is the lack
of any parameter automation either
from the internal sequencer or via
MIDI. There is an argument to say
that this would have gone against the
303’s hand’s on approach, though
the option might have been welcome.
The TT-303 MkII, like its siblings
the Drum Drone TT-606 and Beat
Bot TT-78, has a comprehensive
array of back panel connectivity
options (and more to offer on this
front than the MkI). Besides the Line
and Headphone outs, a 3.5mm jack
TT-303 VERSIONS
Although the TT-303 V2, on review here, is both
cosmetically and functionally different to the fi rst
version, the version labelling is somewhat confusing.
Hence the reason that we’re referring to the different
hardware iterations as MkI and MkII in the main review.
The main point of confusion is the fact that the
fi rst Cyclone TT-303 was updated with a new OS
during its lifecycle - OS V2 - and as such you would
see earlier references to the TT-303 V2. Following this
logic, the new TT-303 should be V3. Yes - its confusing!
Ultimately, the latest TT-303, whilst being less
charming – or copyright infringing – in its looks, is better
in the vast majority of areas.
THE ALTERNATIVES
Roland TB-03
Bass Line £339
Roland chose to
reincarnate the 303
in digital hardware
form. For some this
was a betrayal of
their heritage,
however the TB-03
is still an excellent
piece of kit.
www.roland.co.uk
D16 Phoscyon
€59
If you want to stick
with software, then
D16 have produced
a synth modelled on
the 303, but with an
expanded synth
parameter,
processing and
sequencing spec.
d16.pl
Roland TB-303
(used) £1500+
If only the real thing
will do, then be
prepared to pay a lot.
Boxed versions in
good condition are
relative rare, and
even more pricey.
www.ebay.co.uk
Reviews | Cyclone Analogic TT-303 Bass Bot V2
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FMU323.rev_cyclone.indd 84 06/09/2017 10:20