Arturia BeatStep Pro Controller Dynamic Performance Sequencer

Product Information

Ties and slides can be added too — functions that are treated equally by MIDI synths, but there’s a subtle difference at the CV outputs. When you look to the rear of the unit you get an idea of the comprehensive set of connections that bring both analog and digital computer based set-ups together.

Two of the sequencers are monophonic, intended for riffs, basslines and the like, while the third is for sequencing up to 16 channels of drums. While the front panel covers all of the essential parameters, including dedicated knobs for tempo and swing, some configuration options? Or, for one–handed operation, up and down selection arrows are provided along with a helpful button, ‘PRST LNK’. Anyone expecting an elaborate scale–correction implementation that remaps notes or deactivates those not required on the keyboard will be disappointed.The sequencing tools are extremely comprehensive, so much so that it required keeping my iPad nearby so I could reference the PDF-based manual as I got up to speed with everything. And the color of the backlit Step buttons will always match the current sequencer, so you’ll always know which sequence is being edited. Andertons Music Company is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, firm registration number 716155. Since MIDI has velocity information built into each note, it’s good to see the sequencer tracks turning velocity into volts (0–10V) ready to be sent to your favourite modular destinations.

While the sequencer persona dominates, the Beatstep Pro is still a capable MIDI control surface and DAW controller. Here's what Suzanne had to say: "The BeatStep Pro is elegantly visual with a wonderfully tactile interface that is geared toward performance. To take care of external drum modules there are eight drum gates, for all your hits to be triggered from the on-board sequencer. However, if you change direction or switch to another pattern, the instantaneous switching can leave you out of sync and in need of a restart. Arguably these terms have similar meanings, but in Arturia’s clarification, the randomness value determines how much randomness will occur; the probability value sets how often the randomness occurs.

A single MIDI in/out port allows for the connection of external MIDI capable units and clock sync provides a solid timing platform. Eurorack owners will appreciate the copious CV and gate I/O, all on 1/8" jacks along the rear panel. Designed for hands-on hardware sequencing, the BeatStep Pro brings two fully independent melodic sequencers and one drum sequencer. s focus is squarely on sequencing, it also serves double-duty as a flexible control surface, which is a wonderful bonus.

A further two CV outputs with pitch, velocity and gate allow for maximum control for external analog synths.

As if all this were not enough, Arturia added a number of performance effects such as a looper with touch strip, randomizer, swing settings and other hands on control possibilities that are sure to make this a modern classic.

To prevent the iPad complaining of inadequate power, you must switch on the BSP holding down shift and stop. The number of steps in each is set independently of the others, to 16, 32, 48 or 64, with manual adjustment of the sequence end point allowing for odd numbers - 15, 31, 47 or 63, for example. I have a hard time believing it won’t be added, being a fairly essential function, not to mention one that they apparently already had working. The front panel is clearly laid out with multiple LED displays, sixteen backlit pads, a 16-step row for programming, 16 knobs, and an array of parameter buttons that are also backlit, making it easy to see what? I bought it when the polyrhythm/arp/roller/looper update had just dropped and a load of problems had been fixed.Sequences, or even entire projects can be changed in real-time, the MIDI and analog clock inputs and outputs ensure that everything stays in sync. It takes a bit of getting-to-know-you time to avoid data losses while trying to save, whether in the unit or with the computer interface MIDI-control center, but it is worth getting to know.