Elektron Octatrack

Lore & Background

Stimming began producing electronic music at age 16 before attending the SAE Institute in Hamburg. His approach to performance is defined by a refusal to use repeated samples; he has stated that every sound in his work is original or freshly captured. To achieve this, he carries a tape recorder everywhere to document field recordings from children's toys or loose change. In the studio and on stage, he integrates these sounds using pen-display technology instead of traditional mouse input. The Octatrack serves as a critical component alongside his Roland SH-101, enabling him to trigger and manipulate these unique textures live. This hardware-centric workflow supports his reputation for 'heartstring-tugging tunes' that blend classical influences with electronic production.

In Their Own Story

During a live set, Stimming does not simply press play; he constructs the music in real-time. He might trigger a sample of a coffee machine or children's toy recorded earlier that day, layering it over a melody from his Roland SH-101. Using the Elektron Octatrack, he manipulates these sounds without relying on a computer mouse, preferring the direct control of pen displays and hardware encoders. The result is an improvised performance where no two shows are identical, as he avoids using repeated samples entirely. This method allows him to maintain the 'acoustic feel' characteristic of his releases, such as his 2013 self-titled album recorded on the Baltic coast or his 2016 conceptual LP Alpe Lusia.

Reader's Guide

Stimming's live workflow centers on an Elektron Octatrack paired with a Roland SH-101 and Bitwig software via a touch-based interface. He avoids standard mouse-and-keyboard setups, utilizing pen displays for control. The process involves capturing field recordings from everyday objects—like loose change or toys—and loading them into the system for immediate manipulation during performance. Stimming emphasizes that he never uses repeated samples, ensuring every sound is unique to the moment. This setup supports his classically-informed style, allowing him to integrate violin and piano samples alongside electronic elements seamlessly.

Did You Know?

• Stimming refuses to work with a mouse and keyboard, opting instead for pen-display equipment.
• He has admitted to taking his tape recorder everywhere he goes to capture field recordings from mundane objects like coffee machines or loose change.
• Stimming has stated he has never used a repeated sample in any of his work.
• For live performances, Stimming uses an Elektron Octatrack alongside a Roland SH-101 and customized mastering solutions.