Polyend has unveiled their latest innovation ahead of NAMM 2025, Step—a fully programmable drum machine packed into a compact guitar pedal format. Step isn’t just another drum machine; it’s a tool that can slot into all kinds of setups, from solo jams and live performances to studio sessions.
Key Features:
- 4-Track Drum Machine: Create dynamic, multi-layered rhythms with ease.
- Live Performance Control: Stomp-switches provide quick access to pattern changes, punch-in effects, and tempo adjustments.
- Humanized Beats: Features like velocity control, step probability, and micro-move add natural dynamics.
- Seamless MIDI Integration: Sync effortlessly with other gear, including loopers, delay pedals, and Polyend grooveboxes.
- Compact and Portable: Pedal-style design fits easily into any live or studio setup.
Built for Every Musician
Step feels right at home in any setup. Adding beats to a live loop, jamming with friends, or sketching out ideas in the studio all feel effortless with its simple and intuitive design. It’s loaded with 350 preset rhythms and 200 drum kits, offering plenty of options to start with. Looping 16-step patterns makes locking in a groove easy, and the 16-pattern song mode helps in building more structured ideas without getting lost in complicated menus.
Performance-Ready Features
Step makes performing easy and fun. The footswitches let you move between patterns, add fills, and trigger effects like delays, repeaters, and rearrangers without breaking the flow. It’s designed to keep creativity moving without slowing you down with complex controls.
With up to 16 assignable punch-in effects per song, it’s easy to mix things up and keep a set feeling fresh. It’s a great tool for musicians who want to make quick adjustments on the fly without diving into deep menus.
Designed for Creativity
Step offers plenty of ways to tweak and customize your rhythms. Swing, step probability, and tempo controls give users a lot of flexibility in shaping their sound. The ability to store up to 1,000 songs makes it easy to stay organized and prepared for different performance situations. Whether crafting tight, locked-in beats or exploring more freeform ideas, there’s plenty of room to experiment.
Why a Guitar Pedal?
Putting a drum machine into a pedal format is an interesting move. It allows musicians to control their beats with their feet, keeping their hands free for other instruments. This setup could be useful for solo performers, band rehearsals, or even home practice sessions, offering an intuitive and hands-on approach to drum programming.
Availability and Pricing
Polyend Step will start shipping on January 21, 2025, contact your local retailer for pricing and availability.
For more information, head to polyend.com.
