Description

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

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, thirty years later, the MS-20 is reborn in various versions, while the SQ-10 evolves into the more modern SQ-1.

Key features

• Connections for MS-20 and other types of equipment
• Wide variety of sequencer operating modes
• Step Edit Button, inherited from Volca, great for improvisation
• Robust and compact body
• Battery operated

Watch this video illustrating the main operating possibilities of 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. Furthermore, the CV output voltage level (*), and the GATE polarity can be set according to the specifications of the connected device.

SQ-1 has two output channels: CV/GATE OUT, Standard MIDI OUT, USB, LittleBits (to connect the LittleBits synths 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 in various modes. For example, you can run channels A and B one after the other to create a 16-step sequencer, ignore the preset order and run the steps randomly, or use channels A and B in parallel to control different parameters. From simple sequences to complex changes, you can meet all your musical needs.

Volca-inherited Step buttons offer great improvisation possibilities

The 2 x 8 Step buttons can be used in the usual way to turn notes on/off, or just like 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" instantly executes the selected step, allowing you to produce irregular rhythms or effects reminiscent of "Loops." "Slide" produces an effect where steps are continuously linked. Using this parameter to control a bass synth, for example, easily generates a typical "acid" sound.

Robust and compact cabinet, battery operated

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

Other functions

• The resolution of the Step Sequence is selectable in quarter, eighth, or sixteenth notes.

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

KORG SQ-1 Technical Specifications

• Sequencer mode - ALTERNATE, ORDER, PARALLEL TURN, PARALLEL ORDER, CV/DUTY, CV/SLIDE, CV/DUTY RANDOM, RANDOM
• Step mode - GATE ON/OFF, ACTIVE STEP, SLIDE, STEP JUMP
• Step Sequence resolution - Quarter, eighth, sixteenth notes
• CV OUT pitch - Linear, Minor, Major, Chromatic
• CV OUT voltage - 1V, 2V, 5V (Oct) 8V (Hz/V)
• GATE OUT polarity - + (positive polarity), - (negative polarity)
• SYNC IN/OUT polarity - + (rise), - (fall)
• Connectors - LittleBits OUT jack (mono mini jack)
• OUT (MIDI OUT) jack (stereo mini jack)
• CV - A OUT - GATE jack (mono mini jack, CV OUT: output level 1V, 2V, 5V
• 8 [Hz/V], GATE OUT: Output level 10V
• CV - B OUT - GATE jack (mono mini jack), CV OUT: output level 1V, 2V, 5V, 8 [Hz/V]
• GATE OUT: output level 10V)
• IN – SYNC – OUT jack (mono mini jack), SYNC IN: Max input level 20V, SYNC OUT: output level 5V
• USB port (Type B, USB MIDI)
• Power - 2 AA batteries (alkaline batteries recommended), or USB bus power
• Battery life - Approximately 5 hours (with alkaline batteries)
• Dimensions (W x D x H) - 93 x 84 x 63 mm / 7.60" x 3.31" × 2.48"
• Weight - 641 g / 1.41 lbs.
• Included accessories - Mini plug – DIN cable
• Optional accessories - MS-CABLE-18 Patch cables

Product specifications and appearance are subject to change without notice.