Compact yet powerful step sequencer

The Korg SQ-64 is a compact and powerful polyphonic step sequencer with intuitive hands-on controls and deep editing, well suited for analog and modular synth users, drum modules, and DAW producers. The 64-step sequencer is broken down into four sequencing parts. Parts A, B, and C offer pitch, gate, and modulation outputs, while part D offers eight trigger outputs for controlling drum module or interfacing with synthesizer modules such as envelope generators.

The front panel includes a tap tempo button, tempo knob, and swing knob, as well as transport controls (record, stop, play). The OLED display provides all necessary visual feedback and is easily read in low-light conditions. Additionally, there are four parameter knobs that are assigned to the various modes including gate, pitch, mod, loop, global, projects, and patterns. There are also four Bar buttons for fast and easy navigation. The SQ-64 features graduated LEDs on each of the 64 step buttons. The higher the parameter is set, the more the button lights up, to help visualize what each step will do.

The rear panel offers plenty of connections via 3.5mm connectors including the three sets (A, B, C) of pitch, gate, and mod outputs, the 8 trigger outputs, a MIDI input, two MIDI outputs, sync input and output, and a micro-USB port, which provides power and a host connection to your computer.

There’s a fair amount of controlled chaos built into the SQ-64, which injects randomizations into your music. Vary steps, sequences, the play order, or the first step of each sequence. Each part can also be set to different lengths, which unlocks polyrhythmic patterns. The SQ-64 ships with a USB cable and a free bundle of music software.