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The main focus of this chapter will be the sequencing features that are accessible from
the front panel of the BeatStep Pro. There are more parameters available through the
MIDI Control Center, though; see
4.1 What's a step sequencer?
A step sequencer is a very basic type of music sequencer. Originally popular in the
1960's and 70's, they have been rediscovered as interest in modular synthesizers has
grown. We've included virtual step sequencers in some of our analog synthesizer
emulations.
A step sequencer is usually monophonic; i.e., it will output only one note at a time. It's
different from an arpeggiator in that a step sequencer does not determine what to do
based on keys you hold on a keyboard: the pitch of each note is set with a knob or a
slider.
Once a sequence is running the performer's hands are free to adjust other parameters
such as filters, envelope settings or pitch while the sequencer keeps looping.
Today's music often uses loops, so it makes perfect sense that step sequencers would
experience a revival. With the purchase of BeatStep Pro you now have access to not one,
but two of these unique creative tools (plus a drum sequencer!). And as you have come
to expect, Arturia has taken them many steps beyond what the original devices could do.
4.2 SEQ1 and SEQ2 characteristics
Sequencer 1 and Sequencer 2 have identical features. They use the pads, Step buttons
and encoders as input and control devices to help shape the sequences in the following
ways:
The pads will transpose the sequence while it is running, and are used with the
•
SHIFT button to define various sequence parameters such as playback mode.
The Step buttons show which sequence steps are active, allow you to enable and
•
disable them, and indicate the current position of the sequence.
The encoders can alter the pitch, velocity and gate time of each step in the
•
sequence.
See
section 12.5
for information about sequencer features that are only available in the
MIDI Control Center software.
4.3 Sequence Creation
The BeatStep Pro provides an astounding array of options for music creation. Each of the
following features plays a major role in shaping a sequence:
26
4 THE STEP SEQUENCERS
section 12.5
for information.
ARTURIA – BeatStep Pro – USER'S MANUAL
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