More often than not there comes a time in every electronic music studio where software sequencers and DAWs offer so much that it can sometimes drain one’s creative flow. That’s where a hardware step sequencer can help. Moving away from a screen and physically interacting with a hardware sequencer can be very rewarding both in the studio and performing. These days, the modern studio is filled with a mix of software and hardware technologies from synths, guitars, drum machines, effects, mixers and modular synths. Step sequencers can be a never-ending source of beat making and other creative ideas that can elevate your next masterpiece!
In our video we battle 3 of what we believe are the best hardware step sequencers on the market today. The Arturia BeatStep Pro, Korg SQ-64 and Torso T-1, all offering a heap of features and different workflows. Leroy, Lachlan and David battle it out and describe what they love about these step sequencers.
Ironically, vintage hardware sequencers inspired the array of software sequencers we have today. If you don’t have a studio filled with a million dollars of vintage synths and love your software synths, these hardware step sequencers integrate seamlessly with your DAWs and you might get some results you never imaged!
Here’s a quick snapshot of features:
Arturia BeatStep Pro
- 2 monophonic step sequencers
- Up to 64 steps per sequence
- 16-track drum sequencer
- MIDI controller mode
- Randomizer
- Real-time looper/roller touch strip
- Touch sensitive knobs
- 8 drum gate outputs
https://www.arturia.com/products/hybrid-synths/beatstep-pro/overview
Korg SQ-64
- 64 step sequencer with 3 melodic tracks
- 8 note polyphony, 16 monophonic rhythmic tracks
- LED-lit Step button pads
- OLED Display
- built-in Arpeggiator
- Reverse, Bounce, Random, and Stochastic modes
- portable robust solid aluminium body
- 64 pad Matrix
https://www.korg.com/au/products/dj/sq_64/index.php
Torso T-1
- Generative algorithmic sequencing
- 16 tracks per pattern
- 18 endless encoders
- 23 multicolour keypad buttons
- Wireless Ableton Link sync
- Real-time MIDI FX
- MIDI controller mode
- Intuitive design
https://torsoelectronics.com/t-1/
