Korg SQ-1 SEQUENCER

SQ-1 is a compact 2 X 8 Steps. step sequencer with a wide range of connections to interface it to MS-20 and other synthesizers with CV ports. This unit can control vintage analog synths or the latest compact synths. You can instantly switch between various of Sequencer modes and use the Step buttons to bring impromptu performances to life, just like Volca units. With SQ-10 you can free yourself from the numerical parameter editing typical of DAWs by getting immediate results; you can draw inspiration directly from gestures, guided by your musical instincts.

When the now classic analog synthesizer MS-20, made its appearance back in 1978, it had a trusted partner in the SQ-10 Step Sequencer. Now after 30 years MS-20 is reborn in various versions, while SQ-10 evolves into the more modern SQ-1.

Notable features

• Connections for MS-20 and other types of equipment
• Wide variety of operating modes as Sequencer
• Step Edit Button, inherited from the Volca, great for improvising
• Rugged and compact body
• Battery operation

Follow along in this video illustrating the main operational possibilities of the SQ-1

SQ-1 STEP SEQUENCER 2 x 8

Connect and control MS-20 and other equipment

SQ-1 is extremely versatile in connecting with other devices, as it supports both the Hz/V standard, which allows it to perfectly control MS-20, MS-20 mini, MS-20M Kit; and the V/Oct standard, which makes it compatible with all devices that implement it. In addition, the voltage level of the CV output (*), and the polarity of the GATE can be set according to the specifications of the connected device.

SQ-1 has two output channels: CV/GATE OUT, MIDI OUT Standard, USB, LittleBits (for connecting LittleBits Synt built by littleBits Electronics Inc.), plus a SYNC IN/OUT channel, for connecting VOLCA and MONOTRIBE series modules. Compact and complete with all necessary functions, the SQ-1 is the ideal Hardware Sequencer.

* V/Oct supported for 1V, 2V, and 5V; Hz/V supported for 8V.

Sequencer Modes

The SQ-1 has two channels (A and B) with 8 Steps each, which can operate with various modes. For example, you can run channels A and B one after the other to get a Sequencer with 16 Steps, ignore the preset order and run the various Steps randomly, or use the two channels A and B in parallel to control different parameters. Simple sequences or complex changes, you can meet all your musical needs.

Step buttons inherited from the Volca offer excellent improvisation cues

The 2 x 8 Step buttons can be used in the usual way to turn notes on/off (On/Off), or just as on a VOLCA unit you can use the MODE button to select their functions, opening up enormous creative and performance possibilities. Active Step allows you to skip Steps in the sequence, and Step Jump immediately executes the selected Step, so you can produce of irregular rhythms or effects reminiscent of Loops. Slide produces an effect in which Steps are linked together continuously. Using this parameter, for example, to control a Synth Bass easily generates a typical acid sound.

Robust and compact cabinet, battery-operated

Packed with carefully selected features, the SQ-1 is made of compact and very sturdy sheet metal. When placed next to the MS-20 series synths, it conveys a great sense of solidity, as if they were produced in the same era. The unit can run on two AA batteries or via power from the USB bus.

Other functions

• Step Sequence resolution is selectable in fourths, eighths, or sixteenths.

You can specify how the knobs control the Pitch (frequency). The VALUES knob allows you to determine Pitch directly, or you can specify the nearest note in a major, minor, or chromatic scale.