We're currently living in the age of digital audio. Sequencer is an incredibly powerful tool that is essential to any music producer.

But there are so many different Sequencer plugins in the music production landscape, so we decided to create the ultimate list of the top Sequencer plugins today that will help you find the perfect fit.


Modular Add-On: Vermona Random Rhythm

Sequencer by Softube



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Description


This product is an expansion for Softube Modular. If you do not currently own Modular, you can purchase it HERE.

The mad scientist of sequencers.

The Vermona Random Rhythm module is a little bit like Frankenstein’s monster: robustly built with a passionate soul—but also, good-looking. Created in collaboration with German-based Vermona, whose musical heritage producing amplifiers and organs dates back decades, Random Rhythm is an exacting model of the original random-based, dual-channel trigger sequencer hardware.

Concocted specifically for Modular, Random Rhythm lets imagination off-leash while maintaining full control over what’s being sequenced. It says random in the name, but there's a method to the madness.

Easy Experimentation

Created in collaboration with—and authorized by—Vermona, the Random Rhythm module lets your creativity run amuck. And you don't need a PhD in probabilities to play it.

Inspiring Attributes

Take artistry to the edge of imagination with four sliders per rhythm section, a random dual-channel trigger sequencer, and the ability to save presets of your patches.

Odds On Fun

The Softube + Vermona Random Rhythm module is a random-based dual-channel trigger sequencer with a thoroughly novel approach. It gives you two rhythm sections with four sliders per rhythm section. The sliders correspond to the note-values quarters, eighths, sixteenths, and triplet notes and are used to influence the probability that they will appear at each step in the generated pattern. What used to be a chore, programming complex patterns, is now an enjoyable and artistic task.

Speculate On Sound

With Random Rhythm you can work either rhythm section of the module in realtime or dice mode. Set it to realtime and the module continuously generates random values for each note value. In dice mode, the module generates random values for a complete 3/4- or 4/4-bar. It’s not a total unknown, though. In either setting, the sliders still have authority over the resulting sequence.

Rhythmical Laws

Don’t let the name fool you, Random Rhythm can be precise when it needs to be. Use it as a tool to generate or multiply clocks with individual outs for the quarters, eighths, sixteenths, and triplets. The Reset Input allows you to mute the outputs or restart your diced bar. Precision is important, but fun rules Random Rhythm.

Amplified Originality

The Softube + Vermona Random Rhythm module is a magnifying glass for creativity. Use it as the sole rhythm base or as an invaluable addition to other sequencers. The module’s foolproof interface lets you generate beats without thinking about patterns. It’s easy to discover new and exciting sequences that you wouldn’t typically program note by note.




Features

  • An exact model of the original hardware, authorized by Vermona 
  • Get creative, one-of-kind results without manual or note-by-note programming
  • Software exclusives let you save presets and the states with the session 
  • Functions just like the Eurorack hardware
  • Great for drum modules, as an arpeggio sequencer, or anything you can conceive of
  • Made for Modular, Softube's Eurorack platform.
  • Use Vermona Random Rhythm to create interesting rhythmic textures for drums or melodies:
  • Generate probability-based rhythmic patterns
  • Separate outputs for different note values and combined for complex stuff
  • Real-time and dice mode

Rating


Value For Money

Sound Quality

General Ease of Use

Number of Presets


  • Mac OS X 10.13 or newer (older OS versions will not work) (64-bit only).
  • Windows 10 64-bit (older Windows versions may work but are not tested) (64-bit only).
  • Mac: Intel Core i3 / i5 / i7 / Xeon - M1 support pending.
  • Windows: Intel Core i3 / i5 / i7 / Xeon / AMD Quad-Core or newer.
  • Screen resolution 1280x800 or larger.
  • Supported sample rates: 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4 and 192 kHz, in both mono and stereo.
  • 8 GB RAM or more is recommended, as well as at least 8 GB hard disk space for installation (individual plug-ins take less space, while sample libraries may require additional disk space).
  • A Softube account is required to register and install the software.
  • An iLok account is required for authorisation of the software.
  • Internet access for downloading installer and managing licenses.
  • iLok generation 2 and up, if you intend to use a physical iLok dongle for authorizing your plug-ins (note that an iLok dongle is not a requirement).
  • In theory, any 64-bit VST, VST3, AU, or AAX (11.0.2 or higher) compatible host application should work.
  • The most recent maintenance release of the DAW application is recommended.

However, due to plug-in host differences between DAWs - and Softube's own rigorous testing standards - Softube only officially test their plug-ins and instruments in the most recent versions of Pro Tools, Logic Pro, Cubase, Live, Studio One, Digital Performer, Reaper and Sonar. Softube plugins are not tested in the non-listed systems, but they most likely work as long as the system requirements are met.

  • This product requires Softube Modular.
  • Make sure that you always use the latest iLok License Manager. It is not included in the Softube installer but can be downloaded from www.ilok.com​

OS Compatibility



HY-MPS2

Sequencer by HY-Plugins



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Description


Block Base Sequencer

MPS2 is a block base sequencer that contains 8 sequencer blocks, all of which can be controlled independently (Step Size, Speed and Direction).

There are 4 different modulation units available, that are used for modulating sequencing parameters. Each Modulation unit also has 5 modulation engines (LFO, Prob LFO, Step LFO, Multi-Point Envelope, Sample & Hold)




Features

  • 8 Sequencer Blocks which can be Controlled Independently (Step Size, Speed, Direction)
  • 4 Modulation Units 
  • Each Modulation Unit has 5 Modulation Engines (LFO, Prob LFO, Step LFO, Multi-Point Envelope, Sample & Hold)

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Rating


Value For Money

Sound Quality

General Ease of Use

Number of Presets


Mac

  • macOS 10.12 Sierra or higher (64-bit only)
  • AU, VST2

PC

  • Windows 7 or higher (32 / 64-bit) 
  • VST2

Please Note: HY-MPS2 doesn’t work with GarageBand or Reason.

OS Compatibility



HY-RPE2

Sequencer by HY-Plugins



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Description


8 Track Midi Sequencer

RPE2 is an 8 track MIDI sequencer plugin that features two different sequencer engines, Grid and Euclidean.




Features

  • 2 sequencer engines (Grid and Euclidean)
  • Drag & drop modulation assignment(for Euclidean Sequencer)
  • 4 LFO/Sample&Hold units (for Euclidean Sequencer)
  • 4 Macro knobs/buttons (for Euclidean Sequencer)
  • Midi Recorder
  • Midi Learn
  • Midi Note Map
  • Resizable interface

Video


Rating


Value For Money

Sound Quality

General Ease of Use

Number of Presets


PC

  • Windows 7 or higher (32 / 64-bit) 
  • VST2, VST3

Mac

  • macOS 10.12 or higher (64-bit only)
  • VST2, VST3, and AUv3
  • Not compatible with GarageBand and Reason

OS Compatibility



Riffer

Sequencer by Audiomodern



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Description


The Creative MIDI Sequencer

Riffer is a smart MIDI tool that generates musical riffs & sequences by combining pitch, duration, velocity & density. Built for your sounds, software & hardware. Turn them into something of your own or let it run endlessly using the infinity mode.

Quick-fire Ideas

You can choose from 50+ scales, pattern complexity, steps, start and endpoints, set pitch, transpose, motion, measures and many more...

A Swiss army knife for MIDI

Introduced in 2015 and by receiving regular updates, Riffer is endlessly generating unique riffs for more than 35,000 users proving its value as the best and most feature-rich generative MIDI Sequencer on the market.

Advanced MIDI Connectivity

Designed to 'feed' anything that accepts MIDI, both Software & Hardware.

MIDI Input

Trigger it with your Keyboard or via any MIDI Input.

Amazing Experience

Discover new ways of composing riffs & musical patterns.

Powerful Design

Lightweight plugin designed to run on any system or device.

Available for Any Device

VST/VST3/AU/AAX Plugin for Windows & Mac

Riffs Made Only for You

No two patterns will ever be the same, they're your own.




Features

  • Generate random riffs
  • Everything is synced to your host tempo
  • 53 scales included from western to eastern
  • Create & save your own scales
  • Choose the number of notes generated
  • Set the number of root notes based on a chosen scale
  • Generate pattern pitch, duration & volume per note
  • Tile or sustain paused notes
  • Lock individual notes or whole steps
  • Quick-export MIDI patterns
  • Quick transpose whole pattern
  • Quick load preset section
  • Choose quantization settings
  • Shuffle & Shift mode
  • Advanced Infinity mode
  • Set sequence range & motion settings
  • Set range for pitch, duration and velocity
  • Save & load your own patterns
  • Send MIDI to any device, software & hardware
  • Advanced MIDI CC/Mapping editor
  • No two patterns will ever be the same
  • The only plugin available of its kind!
  • Resizable GUI
  • Supports Apple silicon M1 devices
  • New Features for v3.0

  • Polyphonic Mode / Multi-Riff Engine
  • Density Function
  • MIDI Input/Performance Mode
  • MIDI Learn
  • Share presets across devices (Desktop/iOS)
  • Performance improvements

Video


Rating


Value For Money

Sound Quality

General Ease of Use

Number of Presets


  • macOS 10.12 or higher (64-bit only, M1 supported)
  • Windows 7 or higher (32-bit & 64-bit)
  • 4GB of RAM required
  • At least 50 MB of free drive space
  • Comes in VST / VST3 / AU / AAX
  • Reliable internet connection for download delivery and product activation
  • Allows for activation on three (3) computers per serial code

OS Compatibility



Tactic

Sequencer by Glitchmachines



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Description


Phrase Generator

Tactic is a percussive phrase generator geared towards metamorphic rhythms and evolving sequences.

Tactic features a host of sample slots and a master trigger sequencer supported by several modulation sequencers with features such as per-step probability, per-step parameter value designations and per-step randomization, giving you all the tools necessary to create anything from subtle percussive grooves to experimental hyper glitch chaos.

While Tactic can confidently stand on its own, the plugin truly comes to life when paired with Glitchmachines range of signal processing plugins such as Convex, Subvert, Cryogen, Quadrant and Fracture XT. You can of course also load your own samples and pair it with any of your favourite processors and effects chains to fully customize the plugin to your needs.

With its 8 Sample Slots, Trigger Sequencer with Per-Step Probability, Dual Per-Step Parameter Sequencers, Generative Sequencer, Comprehensive Randomizer, 640+ Factory Samples and 115 Factory Presets, Tactic brings a powerful new phrase generator to the world of electronic music production.

To extend Tactic’s onboard functions, virtually every parameter is available as an automation target, maximizing your options to construct incredibly intricate modulation scenarios via your host application’s automation facilities. Tactic also features a comprehensive randomization panel similar to the ones found in Polygon and Palindrome, which allows you to randomize nearly every parameter in the plugin, either individually or in logically organized parameter groups.

Tactic comes with a specially curated factory bank with over 600 percussion samples and sound effects.  While this bank includes all of the necessary elements to allow you to take advantage of Tactic’s strengths, you can certainly load your own samples in order to fully customize the plugin to your liking. Glitchmachines also offer a large range of separately available sample packs that cover a broad sonic landscape you can explore to keep Tactic loaded with content for years to come.




Features

  • 8 Sample Slots
  • 4 Flexible Sequencers
  • Per-Step Parameter Values
  • Powerful Randomizer Panel
  • Scalable User Interface
  • 640+ Factory Samples
  • 115 Factory Presets
  • Windows / Mac, VST3 / AU (64bit only)

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Rating


Value For Money

Sound Quality

General Ease of Use

Number of Presets


Mac

  • Mac OS X 10.12+
  • 64bit VST3 or Audio Unit DAW
  • Approx. 1.5 GB of HDD space
  • Minimum 2 GB RAM
  • CPU with SSE2 support
  • Minimum CPU: Core 2 Duo, 2GHz
  • Broadband for download

PC

  • Windows 8+
  • 64bit VST3 DAW
  • Approx. 1.5 GB of HDD space
  • Minimum 2 GB RAM
  • CPU with SSE2 support
  • Minimum CPU: Core 2 Duo, 2GHz
  • Broadband for download

OS Compatibility



Chordjam

Sequencer by Audiomodern



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Description


The Ultimate Chord Machine

Creative real-time compositional assistant for Mac and PC.

Chordjam is an innovative plugin that builds chords and progression patterns through intuitive user-guided randomization.

It automatically randomizes a unique combination of parameters, serving up unpredictable but always-musical variations.

Choose from a variety of scale types, Chord types, voicing parameters, rhythms and progressions or have its powerful sequencer conjure up unlimited progression patterns for you, based on any combination of settings, serving up unpredictable but always-musical variations.

Create unique and complex chord structures and infinitely evolving progressions.

Chord Better Than Best

Ignite Music Creation • A New Approach

Unlike similar plugins, Chordjam uses intuitive user-guided randomization to go about its business, bringing new elements for musical expression and delivers limitless inspiration and musical variety.




Features

  • Generate Random Chords
  • Trigger New Chords with Every Note Played
  • Unique Voicing Parameters
  • Intelligent Sequencer Engine
  • Chord Progression & Pattern Presets
  • Generate Infinite Chord Patterns & Progressions
  • Everything is Synced to your Host tempo
  • Drag MIDI Chord
  • Drag MIDI pattern
  • Pads Section for Musical Performance
  • Quick Load preset Section
  • Choose Quantization settings
  • Shuffle & Shift Mode
  • Advanced Infinity Mode
  • Set Sequence range & Motion Settings
  • Set Range for Transposition, Time-Delay and Velocity
  • Save & Load your own patterns
  • Send MIDI to any Device, Software & Hardware
  • Advanced MIDI CC/Mapping editor
  • No Two Chords will Ever Be the Same
  • Delivering limitless inspiration and musical variety

Video


Rating


Value For Money

Sound Quality

General Ease of Use

Number of Presets


  • macOS 10.12 or higher (64-bit only)
  • Windows 7 or higher (32 / 64-bit compatible)
  • 4GB of RAM required.
  • At least 50 MB of free drive space.
  • Comes in VST / VST3 / AU / AAX formats.
  • Reliable internet connection for download delivery and product activation.
  • Allows for activation on three (3) computers per serial code.

OS Compatibility



HY-SEQ32

Sequencer by HY-Plugins



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Description


32 Step Sequencer

HY-SEQ32 is a 32 step sequencer inspired by analogue sequencers. It can create constantly changing patterns with the help of the fully-featured parameter modulators. There are 5 sequencer modules available (Pitch SEQ, Param SEQ, CC SEQ, CC Rack and Oct/Tp SEQ). Each sequencer/rack unit has 8 dedicated modulation controls for in-depth tweakability.




Features

  • 5 Modules (Pitch SEQ, Param SEQ, CC SEQ, Oct/Tp SEQ and CC Rack)
  • 8 Dedicated Modulation Controls per Unit
  • Drag & Drop Modulation Assignment
  • 8 Macro Knobs
  • 8 Snapshots per Unit
  • Pattern Sequencer for Chaining Unit Snapshots
  • Chord and Scale FX 
  • 5 Track MIDI Recorder
  • Resizable Interface

Video


Rating


Value For Money

Sound Quality

General Ease of Use

Number of Presets


Mac

  • macOS 10.12 Sierra or higher (64-bit only)
  • AUv3, VST2, VST3
  • Please Note: AUv3 is for Logic users only.

PC

  • Windows 7 or higher (32 / 64-bit) 
  • VST2, VST3

OS Compatibility



HY-SeqCollection2

Sequencer by HY-Plugins



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Description


Multi-Mode Sequencer

This multi-mode sequencer plugin includes 6 sequencer modes (Acid, Dark, M5816, Step16, Hexa, Euclid). 4 modulation signal generators and 8 macro controls are available for parameter modulation as well as 9 midi effects (Octave, Transpose, Scale, Harmonizer, Velocity, Note Chance, Note Echo, Midi Ctrl, Midi CC). Once the perfect sequence has been created, the results can be exported as a midi file.




Features

  • 6 Sequencer Engines (Acid, Dark, M5816, Step16, Hexa, Euclid)
  • 4 Modulation Signal Generators and 8 Macro Controls
  • Drag and Drop Modulation Assignment
  • Midi FX (9 Effect Types)
  • MIDI Recorder
  • Sequencer Pattern Snapshot
  • Randomizer
  • Rescalable Interface

Video


Rating


Value For Money

Sound Quality

General Ease of Use

Number of Presets


Mac

  • macOS 10.12 Sierra or higher (64-bit only)
  • AUv3, VST2
  • Please Note: AUv3 version is for Logic users only.

PC

  • Windows 7 or higher (32 / 64-bit) 
  • VST2

OS Compatibility



Playbeat 3

Sequencer by Audiomodern



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Description


World's Smartest Groove Machine.

Next-Generation Creative Groove Engine for Windows and macOS.

The Next Generation Groove Machine

Create infinite variations of the grooves while maintaining a sense of creativity, inspiration, and momentum. No two patterns will ever be the same.

Smart by Design

Unlike other groove creators that are limited to one specific algorithm, Playbeat innovates by using advanced sonic analysis algorithms to create or remix completely original grooves that never repeat and always sound great!

With the ability to generate and suggest different combinations for your beats on the fly, you'll always have something fresh and new, from simple pattern remixes to more complex drum beats. The more you play, the more combinations you get.

Powerful Sequencers

With up to eight totally independent sequencers which can combine Real-Time Pitch Shifting, Playbeat's signature Density feature, Flam strokes, Volume, Pan and more, Playbeat can create or remix infinite combinations of patterns in the most creative way.

Load up any audio file, edit or randomize the values and samples instantly. Let Playbeat take over and let it perform for you using the signature Infinity mode. There are no limitations on what comes out!

With the ability of flexible mapped MIDI output routing, you can also 'feed' any of your other Drum Sequencers, Plugins, Synths, Modules or even Hardware Gear. Basically, anything that accepts MIDI.

Remix, Perform & Edit

With Playbeat's totally new algorithm introduced to version 3.0, you now have the option to create unlimited remixes of patterns based on your current pattern to fit your entire song.

Edit your samples on the spot, and generate a new, fresh set of Remix patterns again and again.. and again.

Preset & Sample Management

With Playbeat's totally new Sample management and Preset management system, you can add any folder from your computer, browse any sample and quickly drag and drop any sample to the Sequencers & Sample Slots to create your Kits.

Each Preset can be Previewed, categorized by Genre, or even swap Samples & Groove Patterns from different presets.

With the new Export tab you can save or export any Stem, or complete Pattern in MIDI or WAVE file with Drag-n-Drop.

Audiomodern believes it is the most Flexible System on the market today, and they're really proud of it!

Create your Own Packs

You now have the option to create your own personalized packs, all with your own Artwork, Name, Description and tagging which you can export and share with another device or with another user.

Playbeat Packs capture both the Samples & Patterns so every pack you export is exactly as you designed it.

Everything can be done with 1-Click Pack Export & Import. It's really fast.

What's new in Playbeat 3.1 ?

Besides many workflow improvements, Playbeat 3.1 introduces the brand-new 'SMART' algorithm, a revolutionary new technology developed over the past year by the brightest minds of Audiomodern and is taking a unique step into a new field of A.I. for music production software.

With the newest Playbeat version, you train the app to learn your preferred patterns with your day-to-day activity, the app then adapts to your own style and generates personalized patterns to achieve the perfect user experience. As you improve, it becomes more advanced to suit your needs.

Included in Playbeat 3.1, are 3 completely free expansion packs that expand the capabilities of Playbeat to make your next loops even more unique.

Refract

Fuse

Fuse II




Features

  • Generate Random Patterns
  • Load your Own Sounds
  • Unique Randomization Parameters
  • 8 X Intelligent Sequencer Engines
  • Smart Remix Algorithms
  • Temporary Random Functionality
  • Generate Infinite Patterns and Grooves
  • Signature Infinity Mode
  • Drag MIDI Stems & Pattern
  • Drag Audio Stems & Pattern
  • Pads Section for Musical Performance
  • Quick Load preset Section
  • Waveform Edit Section
  • Smart Remix Pads Section
  • Disintegration Mode
  • Create your own Packs
  • Tag Presets by Genre
  • Drag Export/Import
  • Send MIDI to any Device, Plugin or Hardware
  • Advanced MIDI CC/Mapping editor
  • No Two Patterns will Ever be the Same
  • Delivering limitless inspiration and musical variety

Video


Rating


Value For Money

Sound Quality

General Ease of Use

Number of Presets


Mac

  • macOS 10.12 or higher (64-bit only)
  • VST / VST3 / AU / AAX & Standalone.
  • At least 50 MB of free drive space.
  • Reliable internet connection for download delivery and product activation.
  • Allows for activation on three (3) computers per serial code.

Windows

  • Windows 7 or higher (64-bit only)
  • VST / VST3 / AAX & Standalone.
  • At least 50 MB of free drive space.
  • Reliable internet connection for download delivery and product activation.
  • Allows for activation on three (3) computers per serial code.

OS Compatibility



Thesys

Sequencer by Sugar Bytes



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Description


The Art of Expression

Step Sequencers are an attractive concept. Machines making music. Who could better awake the genie in the machine than Thesys, the drawing board for step-based music creation? A refined Randomizer is ready, whatever the current situation, to mutate existing material or to bring a new approach on the table.

Generate Pitch

A huge inspiration for performance or production

The sequences can simply be painted, but with the random generator and the mutate-function you can easily generate patterns on the fly. Or record the pitch straight from your MIDI keyboard. The internal synthesiser saves you lengthy wiring sessions so you can start straightaway.

Start by setting the root note. When using the scales, no out-of-key note will slip through your fingers.

Below the pitch lane, you'll see the Velocity (volume) and Gate Sequencer (controlling each note's length). It's in these top three sections that you'll spend the most of your time, programming riffs and arpeggios, then assigning them to patterns.

Performance and Modulation

Detailed Per-Step Control

The fourth step window is home to the Performance Sequencer, which is in fact 5 sequencers in one. Each row offers per-step control over Octave, Pitch Bend (with 20 pre-configured shapes), Chord (for polyphonic sequencing), Note Roll and sequence randomisation of a vast range of other cleverly implemented "humanising" elements to your patterns.

The final lane is the CC modulation section: each step accepts a value of 0 to 127, pumped out to a MIDI CC of your choosing. You can actually run several Modulation sequences simultaneously - up to eight - with all of them controlling different CCs.

Some Action in Real-Time

Some Useful Performance Features

Up to 16 full patterns can be created within a single project. They can can be sequenced within the Pattern Sequencer (bottom right) or triggered via the Keyboard (set to "Pitch"), where the full length of the keyboard is used to transpose the current pattern. Switch to "Performance" and the keyboard is split into 3 zones: Pattern Select, Action Section and a Range for pitch transposing.

The “Action Section” offers 8 effects that can influence the patterns in real time. Choose from Looping, Half-Time, Re-Trigger or a Tempo Break.

Sequencing Magic

The Setting "Individual" Opens up all Sorts of Creative Possibilities

The lanes within a single pattern can be set to operate over different lengths. You could have pitches cycling over 16 steps, while velocity cycles over 15 steps and a modulation lane is used to sweep a synth filter over 29 steps.

The end results can yield some fascinating interactions between these different step-cycle lengths and an almost endless evolution of the pattern. If you thought step sequencers were only capable of creating repetitive fixed patterns, think again!

There's More...

Internal Synth for Idea Sketching on the fly & MIDI Export

Yes, Thesys also comes with its own synthesiser, it is perfectly capable and very useful if you just want to develop a few quick ideas.

In its VST2 and AAX versions, Thesys is fully MIDI-out capable. As an Audio Unit, it can be plugged as a MIDI FX to trigger other AUs. In the 1.5.1 Update, we implemented MIDI Export. Just drag and drop from within Thesys to your host or simply save the file to your desktop. Quick and easy!

No other MIDI sequencer offers you the ease and power of Thesys. It is 100% MIDI compliant - the ultimate MIDI sequencing solution. Use Thesys on your iPad to control multiple apps or external hard- and software! Send melodies, controller data and program changes. Save patterns to a MIDI file.




Features

  • Powerful 32-step MIDI Sequencer
  • Pitch Recorder
  • Choose and trigger Patterns per MIDI
  • Patternsequencer for longer passages
  • Real-time Manipulation of the patterns per keyboard
  • Internal Synth
  • Vast Randomizer
  • Independent Loop lengths for all 5 sequencers
  • 18 sequencer lanes
  • MIDI Out and Drag 'n' Drop

Video


Rating


Value For Money

Sound Quality

General Ease of Use

Number of Presets


Mac

  • OS X 10.9 or higher (Apple Silicon M1 supported) (64-bit only)
  • AAX, Audio Unit (AU), VST2 & Standalone Application

Windows

  • Windows 7 or higher (64-bit only)
  • AAX, VST2 & Standalone Application

Important note: This software is only available in 64-bit format for both Windows and macOS and will not function on 32-bit systems.

OS Compatibility



Nest

Sequencer by Sugar Bytes



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Description


The DIY Sequencer

A Rule-Based MIDI Sequencer

Nest is a modular system that gravitates around the creation of MIDI. The basic ingredients are 20 modules inspired by classic integrated circuits and today's computer features, a clever voice to synth assignment, 12 patch scenes and a quad VST/Synth/MIDI Interface.

What is Nest?

Nest is a modular sequencer. It offers all kinds of modules to generate and process triggers and numbers. You can build highly complex sequencing environments with the aim to produce music with a life of its own.

Nest is equipped with resemblings of classical, transistor-based integrated circuits like Shift Registers or Multiplexers, plus programming tools like the if/else and math modules. Also, a writable Sequencer and flexible Arpeggiator are on board, to make life easy when needed.

A clever voice assignment distributes the 8 possible MIDI voices to up to 4 different sound generators like VSTs, internal Synths and Drums or MIDI channels. This can make Nest not only fun when hosting your favourite plugins, but you can also use it to drive your hardware park.

A New Sequencer Everyday

Hardware is made of interesting components, and tinkering with them is loads of fun, now Nest provides this experience without sourcing parts and magic smoke. It provides access to the main building blocks of modern electronics, and it allows for free patching and experimenting.

You can throw circuits together like Lego bricks, and with that, sheer endless possibilities open up. Create beats from numbers and numbers from beats, distribute patterns across multiple sound sources, build intelligent song machines.

Nest is a super flexible composition tool, which brings together classical transistor logic with modern computer functions. The wire-patching offers endless possibilities and surprises. With 12 patch scenes and a powerful sound interface, Nest is a little laboratory for complex, intelligent music machines.

The Two Faces of Nest - Wire and Sound

On the Wire page, Sugar Bytes created an awesome patch and send it to up to 8 voice slots. The range of possibilities is sheer endless. More than 20 modules to combine, some rather for numbers (pitch, velocity, modulation), some for gates (triggers, rhythms). With 12 Scenes, a patch can have many variations and allows for playing with songs structures.

On the Sound page, you can receive these 8 voices and assign them freely to 4 channels. So you could have a huge layered 8 voice chord, or 3 voices could be drums, another 3 would be a chord and the last two might be a bassline and some samples. Each Channel can be an internal Synth, a VST Plugin or MIDI Out. A fine reverb puts your patch into perspective and adds a silver lining to even the most simple sounds. With the multiple audio outs, each sound channel plus the reverb channel can be routed to an individual DAW channel.

The Nest Story

"Nest has an actual hardware background, as it originates from different hobbyist euro rack modules, which I built over time. Shift Registers and multiplexers are loads of fun on the breadboard, not to forget the Nandulator. There was a hardware sequencer, which would put out off-steps as gates too, and would also provide the internal counter´s binary address as 4 gate sources. So there were plenty of eye-openers along the way and a deep interest in logic circuits. But still, building my dream module would be close to impossible in hardware. And then came the idea to actually emulate the who-is-who of sequencing and logic IC´s in software. Prototypes quickly uncovered great potential, and so Nest was born." (Rico Baade)




Features

  • Build your own sequencer!
  • More than 20 different modules
  • Generate 8 MIDI voices and assign to 4 targets
  • Host up to 4 VST2 plug-ins
  • Use internal synths and drums
  • Recall 12 scenes via MIDI
  • Send to 16 MDI channels
  • Plus MIDI CCs and automation
  • Multi audio outs (5 Stereo)
  • Flexible scale system

Video


Rating


Value For Money

Sound Quality

General Ease of Use

Number of Presets


Mac

  • OS X 10.9 or higher (Apple Silicon M1 supported) (64-bit only)
  • AAX, Audio Unit (AU), VST2 & Standalone Application

Windows

  • Windows 7 or higher (64-bit only)
  • AAX, VST2 & Standalone Application

Important note: This software is only available in 64-bit format for both Windows and macOS and will not function on 32-bit systems.

OS Compatibility



Consequence

Sequencer by Sugar Bytes



Images



Description


Anything but Inconsequential

Consequence is an arpeggiator, which creates a sequence of notes based on the chords that you provide. Up to 3 instruments can be loaded up, and a vast number of sequencing options can be used to control the way that the plug-in "interprets" your input.

Chord-Sequencer and Arpeggiator

A Simple Concept, with Tons of Scope for Creativity

The chord sequencer is the centrepiece of the creative flow. It’s basically choosing from a palette of 16-chord "snapshots" you define in the Chord memory section at the bottom. There are actually 5 sequencers controlling different aspects of the groove you’re creating. The Modulation section is especially deep, offering separate patterns for each of the synth parts, the filter and the effects.

The sample-based sound library contains all kinds of instruments – from powerful analogue synths to subtle violins, each offering Octave, Pan, Level and Crush controls. You can choose a trigger mode for each instrument independently, so it becomes possible to create more complex sequences by having some instruments triggered as chords and others as arps.

High Level of User Control

A Musician's eye for Detail...

Consequence allows for a detailed definition of all the sonic aspects on a step-by-step basis: "Arp" or "Chord", "Octave" or "Tie". With detailed control over the Arp-direction, you can create melodies with a narrow focus.

Like the rhythm of one preset, but the sound set from another? No problem! No matter how you save your presets, sequences and sounds can be switched out independently to give you other options to expand your presets further.

Sound Collection

Sample Library with 800 MB Content in 15 Categories & 222 Sound Presets

Consequence’s sound library not only includes sounds of the most sought-after synths like the Memorymoog or the OP-1, there’s also plenty of strings and percussion. String passages are crafted fast and impressive. By combining the 3 instruments, it’s easy to create interlaced rhythms with the oddest sounds.

Besides an ADSR, each instrument holds an "Age" and "Crush" control: With these two, say goodbye to “Samples always sound so sterile!”

MIDI Output on VST & AAX

Control External MIDI Devices and Plug-ins

Consequence is not limited to the internal sound library: if you wanna combine with other generators, it is possible to use the MIDI out to trigger hardware or software synths, which opens up a lot of possibilities. There’s also the MIDI Export: just drag and drop to your host or save as a file.

The final stage of the Consequence sound section is the master section which offers tuning features, a fine master compressor and a kickdrum which plays a 4/4 rhythm. The kickdrum is a friendly helper to keep the groove while you are creating sequences, also it can be sent to the compressor exclusively to glue the mix together or let the level drop at each quarter note.

Sounds & Presets

Your inspiration delivery service:

  • The instruments work with a sampling library which has been created exclusively for Consequence
  • 237 sounds, recorded from first class natural instruments and synthesisers, are currently available



Features

  • 3 Oscillators in a 32-Step Sequencer
  • Easily creates complex sounds and rhythms
  • Hundreds of natural sound samples
  • Charming multi-effect section
  • Individual Envelope per instrument
  • Onboard 4/4 Kickdrum
  • Polyphonic Triggers per Step

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Rating


Value For Money

Sound Quality

General Ease of Use

Number of Presets


Mac

  • OS X 10.9 or higher (Apple Silicon M1 supported) (64-bit only)
  • AAX, Audio Unit (AU), VST2 & Standalone Application

Windows

  • Windows 7 or higher (64-bit only)
  • AAX, VST2 & Standalone Application

Important note: This software is only available in 64-bit format for both Windows and macOS and will not function on 32-bit systems.

OS Compatibility